Natural frequency (modal) analysis with load stiffening determines a part’s natural frequencies and mode shapes. This analysis type accounts for the imposed loads when calculating the natural frequencies and mode shapes. It can determine if a part resonates at the frequency of an attached, power-driven device, such as a motor. While resonance in structures must typically be avoided or damped, engineers may choose to exploit resonance in other applications. 
 
As an example, tightening or loosening a guitar string changes its natural frequency. If the cross-sectional area, applied force, length and mass density are specified, this analysis type will determine the frequency of the string due to load stiffening. 
 
The results of linear natural frequency (modal) analysis with load stiffening are also used as input for other dynamic stress analyses, such as response spectrum, frequency response and random vibration analyses.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

• Aerodynamic phenomena study
• Aerospace structure design
• Aircraft component design
• Bridge and overpass architecture
• Building code analysis
• Bushing optimization
• Chassis analysis
• Construction equipment design
• MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) design
• Musical instrument study
• Power transmission tower analysis
• Robotic system analysis
• Rotating machinery design
• Turbine design
• Vibrating conveyor optimization
• Wing flutter analysis