Inverse problem techniques for the identification of rotor-bearing systems

The values of bearing parameters of rotating machinery are usually unknown. The problem of determining these unknown parameters are very challenging in rotordynamics; and they are needed for various purposes, such as: dynamic analysis and design; control; diagnosis and health monitoring; etc. This article presents a general methodology based on a hybrid optimization scheme for the identification of unknown parameters of flexible rotor-bearing systems. Numerical examples are used to illustrate the techniques used, which are then validated through experimental results.