Ground Vibration Testing Master Class Europe 2026
September 15–18, 2026 | VIVES University of Applied Sciences, Ostend, Belgium
Join the four-day in-person Simcenter Ground Vibration Testing Master Class Europe
Whether you are developing a new vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, a military plane or working on an aircraft modification, ground vibration testing (GVT) can provide essential insights into the dynamic behavior of the structure. Modal parameters obtained during GVT such as resonant frequencies, mode shapes or damping help to detect potential design issues and validate modeling assumptions. GVT is also a major milestone in the certification process of newly developed aircraft, right before the first flight. But properly executing such an important test requires specific know-how and careful preparation.
This Simcenter™ hardware and software master class rolls out an integrated approach to handle test preparation, modal testing, modal analysis, numerical model correlation, model updating and model exploitation. The workshop will cover in detail the challenges and modern solutions for dynamic testing of full aircraft structures. Simcenter is part of the Siemens Xcelerator business platform of software, hardware and services. You will participate in a full-scale GVT on a grounded full-scale aircraft. During the hands-on sessions, you will also be able to rehearse the full process on a physical scale model.
Agenda
- Structural dynamics: theory and specific challenges of GVT on small, medium and large aircraft
- Test preparation and de-risking
- Instrumentation of the aircraft, including boundary conditions
- Measurement setup validation
- Phase separation (random, pseudo-random, stepped, swept sine excitations)
- Phase resonance techniques (normal modes testing)
- Modal analysis
- Finite element correlation and updating, flutter simulation
During this master class, you will learn:
- How to run large-scale structural dynamics tests and obtain validated modal models for conclusive certification dossiers
- How to efficiently apply the full range of modal testing and identification techniques to obtain an in-depth knowledge of structural dynamics
- The value of hybrid test/computer-aided engineering (CAE) technology that enables high interaction between test and simulation departments
- The basics of finite element model updating as well as flutter simulation
- Testing techniques available to assess nonlinearities in aerospace structure
Participation fee and registration
The early registration participation fee for the four-day Simcenter GVT master class Europe is: €3,500 and applicable taxes.
Fee includes daily refreshments, lunch, a networking social and all training materials.
The number of participants is limited.