DATS-HITS Using gfai tech Automatic Impact Hammer

The integration of Prosig DATS ( What Do Prosig Do?) with the WaveHitMAX from gfai tech offers a modern and highly reliable approach to experimental modal testing. By combining well-controlled excitation with precision data acquisition and advanced analysis tools, this system provides a streamlined workflow from impact to modal parameter extraction.

Experimental modal testing requires two fundamental elements: a well-defined excitation input and accurate measurement of the structural response. Traditionally, manual impact hammers have been widely used to provide excitation. However, manual operation can introduce variability in impact force which might triggers non-linear dynamic behaviours, and occasional double hits, all of which may reduce the quality and repeatability of the measured Frequency Response Functions (FRFs). The WaveHitMAX automated hammer addresses these limitations by delivering controlled and repeatable impacts with consistent force levels. Automated force control and precise triggering significantly improve measurement stability and coherence, particularly when multiple averages or production-level repeatability are required.

On the measurement side, Prosig DATS provides high-resolution, multi-channel data acquisition with precise synchronization between force and response signals. DATS Impact application (DATS HITS) enables real-time monitoring of time histories of excitation and responses, Power spectrum of excitation, FRFs, and coherence functions ( About Time Histories, FRF and Coherence). Engineers can immediately assess signal quality, ensure correct windowing and averaging settings, and verify that the captured data is suitable for modal analysis. This real-time feedback reduces test repetition and increases overall efficiency. (How to Perform Hammer Impact Test Using DATS HITS)

Once data acquisition is complete, the Modal analysis (What Modal Analysis in the Real World) application in DATS supports comprehensive modal analysis. Various curve fitting techniques are applied to extract natural frequencies, damping factors, and mode shapes. Visualization tools allow mode shape animation (Animation Example) and validation through stability diagrams and correlation metrics such as the Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC). This integrated workflow simplifies the transition from raw measurement data to validated modal parameters, supporting both experimental validation and finite element model correlation.

The combination of automated excitation and high-quality data acquisition is particularly valuable in applications where repeatability, efficiency, and data integrity are critical. These include automotive NVH development, aerospace structural testing, machinery diagnostics, research laboratories, and educational institutions. By reducing operator influence and improving excitation consistency, the Prosig DATS and WaveHitMAX system enhances confidence in modal test results while shortening overall test duration.

In general, this integrated solution provides a robust and professional platform for experimental modal testing, suitable for both experienced engineers and those new to modal analysis. It combines well-controlled impact excitation, accurate signal acquisition, and advanced data processing within a single, coherent workflow. By integrating automated excitation with high-precision measurement and easy-to-use analysis tools, the system enables users to obtain reliable and high-quality modal parameters with improved efficiency, repeatability, and confidence in the test results.

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Dr Cindy (Xin) Wang

Applications Engineer at Prosig

Cindy has a BSc from the Dept of Jet Propulsion at Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, a Masters from the University of Sheffield in Mechanical Engineering and an MPhil/PhD from the University of Southampton for her thesis “Computational aeroacoustics of slat track system”. Cindy has extensive experience working in Automotive and joined Prosig in 2019 as an Applications Engineer.