A similitude for the middle-frequency vibration response of satellite solar array based on the wave coupling hybrid finite element–statistical energy analysis method

A similitude is proposed for the dynamic response analysis of a satellite solar array. It is defined by invoking the wave coupling hybrid finite element–statistical energy analysis method which is considered as an effective way to solve the wide frequency (especially middle-frequency) vibration response of complex structures. The scaling laws are then derived by looking for equalities in the structural responses. A numerical case involving an assembly of two plates is discussed to verify the proposed scaling laws. Moreover, the new similitude is applied to a simplified satellite solar array model. If the analysis frequency step is selected appropriately, it is shown that a complete similitude can be defined: it allows predicting the vibration response of satellite solar array and provides the possibility for the model test of complex structures.