Lucas D. Staab, Mark E. McNelis, James C. Akers, Vicente J. Suarez, and Trevor M. Jones

Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Application of the Semi-Empirical Force-Limiting 

Approach for the CoNNeCT SCAN Testbed

NASA/TM—2012-217627

September 2012
NASA STI Program . . . in Profile

Since its founding, NASA has been dedicated to the 

advancement of aeronautics and space science. The 

NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) 

program plays a key part in helping NASA maintain 

this important role.

The NASA STI Program operates under the auspices 

of the Agency Chief Information Officer. It collects, 

organizes, provides for archiving, and disseminates 

NASA’s STI. The NASA STI program provides access 

to the NASA Aeronautics and Space Database and 

its public interface, the NASA Technical Reports 

Server, thus providing one of the largest collections 

of aeronautical and space science STI in the world. 

Results are published in both non-NASA channels 

and by NASA in the NASA STI Report Series, which 

includes the following report types:

• TECHNICAL PUBLICATION. Reports of 

completed research or a major significant phase 

of research that present the results of NASA 

programs and include extensive data or theoretical 

analysis. Includes compilations of significant 

scientific and technical data and information 

deemed to be of continuing reference value. 

NASA counterpart of peer-reviewed formal 

professional papers but has less stringent 

limitations on manuscript length and extent of 

graphic presentations.

• TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM. Scientific 

and technical findings that are preliminary or 

of specialized interest, e.g., quick release 

reports, working papers, and bibliographies that 

contain minimal annotation. Does not contain 

extensive analysis.

• CONTRACTOR REPORT. Scientific and 

technical findings by NASA-sponsored 

contractors and grantees.

• CONFERENCE PUBLICATION. Collected 

papers from scientific and technical 

conferences, symposia, seminars, or other 

meetings sponsored or cosponsored by NASA.

• SPECIAL PUBLICATION. Scientific, 

technical, or historical information from 

NASA programs, projects, and missions, often 

concerned with subjects having substantial 

public interest.

• TECHNICAL TRANSLATION. Englishlanguage translations of foreign scientific and 

technical material pertinent to NASA’s mission.

Specialized services also include creating custom 

thesauri, building customized databases, organizing 

and publishing research results.

For more information about the NASA STI 

program, see the following:

• Access the NASA STI program home page at 

http://www.sti.nasa.gov

• E-mail your question to help@sti.nasa.gov

• Fax your question to the NASA STI 

Information Desk at 443–757–5803

• Phone the NASA STI Information Desk at

443–757–5802

• Write to:

 STI Information Desk

 NASA Center for AeroSpace Information

 7115 Standard Drive

 Hanover, MD 21076–1320
Lucas D. Staab, Mark E. McNelis, James C. Akers, Vicente J. Suarez, and Trevor M. Jones

Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Application of the Semi-Empirical Force-Limiting 

Approach for the CoNNeCT SCAN Testbed

NASA/TM—2012-217627

September 2012

National Aeronautics and

Space Administration

Glenn Research Center

Cleveland, Ohio 44135
Acknowledgments

Dr. Terry Scharton/retired NASA JPL and Daniel S. Kaufman/NASA GSFC and NESC deputy technical fellow for Loads and 

Dynamics provided invaluable insight and force-limiting knowledge transfer to NASA GRC in assessing the force limits used 

in the CoNNeCT system vibration test and flight analysis strength assessment. Dr. Dexter Johnson, Chief Structural Systems 

Dynamics Branch/GRC, provided direction, evaluation, and support to advocate the use of force-limiting analysis at GRC. 

Available from

NASA Center for Aerospace Information

7115 Standard Drive

Hanover, MD 21076–1320

National Technical Information Service

5301 Shawnee Road

Alexandria, VA 22312

Available electronically at http://www.sti.nasa.gov

Level of Review: This material has been technically reviewed by technical management. 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 iii

Contents

Abstract.........................................................................................................................................................1

1.0 Introduction.........................................................................................................................................1

2.0 Analysis Approach..............................................................................................................................1

2.1 Force-Limiting Background and Theory...................................................................................1

2.2 CoNNeCT Finite Element Models............................................................................................5

3.0 Implementation of Force-Limiting for CoNNeCT Flight System.......................................................6

4.0 CoNNeCT System Vibration Testing .................................................................................................9

5.0 Force Limits Evaluation....................................................................................................................17

6.0 Component Qualification Assessment Due to Z Axis Force Limits.................................................20

7.0 Lessons Learned and Recommendations ..........................................................................................21

8.0 Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................22

Appendix A.—Historical Force-Limiting C Values...................................................................................25

Appendix B.—CoNNeCT Force Limits Calculations ................................................................................27

References...................................................................................................................................................30

NASA/TM—2012-217627 1

Application of the Semi-Empirical Force-Limiting 

Approach for the CoNNeCT SCAN Testbed

Lucas D. Staab, Mark E. McNelis, James C. Akers, Vicente J. Suarez, and Trevor M. Jones

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Glenn Research Center

Cleveland, Ohio 44135

Abstract

The semi-empirical force-limiting vibration method was developed and implemented for payload 

testing to limit the structural impedance mismatch (high force) that occurs during shaker vibration testing. 

The method has since been extended for use in analytical models. The Space Communications and 

Navigation Testbed (SCAN Testbed), known at NASA as, the Communications, Navigation, and 

Networking re-Configurable Testbed (CoNNeCT), project utilized force-limiting testing and analysis 

following the semi-empirical approach. This paper presents the steps in performing a force-limiting 

analysis and then compares the results to test data recovered during the CoNNeCT force-limiting random 

vibration qualification test that took place at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) in the Structural 

Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) December 19, 2010 to January 7, 2011. A compilation of lessons learned 

and considerations for future force-limiting tests is also included.

1.0 Introduction

The Space Communications and Navigation Testbed (SCAN Testbed), known at NASA as, the 

Communications, Navigation, and Networking re-Configurable Testbed (CoNNeCT) project will provide 

an on-orbit, adaptable, SDR/STRS-based facility to conduct experiments to advance the Software Defined 

Radio (SDR) Space Telecommunications Radio Systems (STRS) Standards. The CoNNeCT flight system 

will be launched aboard the Japanese H-2 Transfer Vehicle (Figure 1) Multi-Purpose Exposed Pallet 

(EPMP) (Figure 2) to the ISS. 

Initial base shake random vibration analysis of the CoNNeCT flight payload indicated negative 

margins. To reduce conservatism in the analysis, a force-limiting analysis approach was used. This 

document will outline the steps taken for the CoNNeCT force-limiting analysis application and compare 

the results to those from the CoNNeCT system force-limited random vibration qualification test. Figure 3

illustrates the CoNNeCT flight mounting structure. The load and source impedances are important factors 

that need to be taken into account during force-limiting testing or analysis.

2.0 Analysis Approach

2.1 Force-Limiting Background and Theory

Force-limiting is a test and analysis method that gives a more realistic representation of a payload 

flight response to random vibration excitation. Force-limiting was initially developed and implemented 

for payload testing by Terry Scharton at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to limit the structural 

impedance mismatch (high force) that occurs during shaker sine and random vibration testing. The NASA 

Headquarters chief engineer sponsored Scharton to collaborate with other NASA centers to transfer the 

knowledge of force-limiting as an acceptable practice for testing NASA payloads. NASA-HDBK-7004B 

was the result of this collaboration. Subsequent to using force-limiting for payload testing, Daniel S. 

Kaufman (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) and NESC deputy technical fellow for Loads and 

Dynamics) developed and implemented force-limiting analysis for the Mars Observer Laser Altimeter 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 2

(MOLA) http://analyst.gsfc.nasa.gov/ryan/MOLA/ randlim.html). Although this document deals only with 

random vibration force-limiting testing and analysis, NASA-HDBK-7004B gives details for sine 

vibration force-limiting. 

Figure 1.—JAXA Tanegashima Space Center and H-IIB Launch Vehicle (left) and upper stage and H2 Transfer 

Vehicle (right).

Figure 2.—HTV Configuration (left) and Multi-Purpose Exposed Pallet (right).
NASA/TM—2012-217627 3

Figure 3.—CoNNeCT Flight Mounting Structure.

Figure 4.—Dynamic Absorber Effect.

The actual interface structural impedance between the payload and the launch vehicle is often not 

represented during a traditional base shake random vibration test or analysis because the interface is too 

stiff resulting in overdriving the payload. Hence this impedance mismatch results in a conservative 

estimate of the flight response analytically and during testing could result in damage to the hardware. 

Force-limiting can be implemented because of the dynamic absorber effect. In a coupled system, payload 

(m2 in Figure 4) and launch vehicle (m1 in Figure 4), the payload will respond much less to a flight like 

environment than when tested in a traditional base shake vibration test. The payload will behave much 

more like the SDOF system shown in Figure 4 during traditional base shake vibration testing. 

Representing the launch vehicle and payload as each being a single degree of freedom (SDOF) 

oscillator, as shown in Figure 4, it can be seen the amount of dynamic interaction is dependent on the 

natural frequency of each SDOF oscillator and the stiffness ratio between the two SDOF oscillators. The 

separation of the two peaks in Figure 4 is dependent on the relative mass ratios of the system components 

(Ref. 1). The implementation of force-limiting can account for most of this reduction in response and 

provides a much more representative flight response. 

The semi-empirical approach is one method of implementing force-limiting for vibration testing and 

analysis. Equations (1a) and (1b) from the NASA-HDBK-7004B outline the semi-empirical approach for 

force-limiting:

0

2

0

2 S C M S f f FF = AA < (1a)

Load 

Impedance 

(CoNNeCT Flight 

System)

Source

Impedance 

(Exposed Pallet)

EXPRESS Payload 

Adapter (ExPA)

CoNNeCT

Testbed

Frequency 

Amplitude 

Reduction in response 

is due to the “dynamic 

absorber effect”

X2

X1

Displacement

F0
NASA/TM—2012-217627 4

( ) 0

2

0

2 S C M S f f f f n o FF = AA ≥ (1b)

• f0 is the fundamental frequency of the payload in test setup (m2 in Figure 4)

• SFF is the force spectral density

• SAA is the acceleration spectral density

• C is a nondimensional dynamic amplification factor, defines the depth of notch.

• M0 is the total mass of the payload

• The exponent of the rolloff factor (f0 /f)

n is included in the equations to reflect the decrease in the 

payload residual mass with frequency. A value of n = 2 is generally initially used but, must be 

verified by analysis or a low level vibration test run.

The semi-empirical approach creates a notch in the input spectrum that takes into account the 

impedance mismatch in the test or random vibration analysis. The implementation of force-limiting for 

testing and for analysis uses the same methodology. 

The nondimensional dynamic amplification factor, C, is an important parameter used in forcelimiting. The C value controls the depth of notch and limits the amount of force and acceleration response 

at the fundamental resonance of the payload. The lower the C value used, the deeper the notch and the 

less resonance response. The higher the C value used, the smaller the notch depth and the more resonance 

response. Figure 5 illustrates the effect of different C values and the depth of notching.

Figure 5.—Example Plot of Influence of C Value

0.0001

0.001

0.01

0.1

1

20 200 2000

PSD (G^2/Hz)

Frequency (Hz)

X Axis Random Input Spectrum

Original Accel PSD (5.67Grms)

Notched Accel PSD C=1.41 (5.37Grms)

Notched Accel PSD C=2 (5.47Grms)

Notched Accel PSD C=3 (5.60Grms)

C=3

C=2

C=1.41
NASA/TM—2012-217627 5

Figure 6.—Notable NASA Payloads Tested Using Force-Limiting

Force-limiting has been utilized by JPL, GSFC, NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) and GRC to 

qualify flight payloads. Some notable spacecraft tested using force-limiting (Figure 6) are Cassini 

(M0 = 8,380 lb, C = 0.7) (Ref. 2), Deep Space-1 (M0 = 1,070 lb, C = 2.0) (Ref. 3), and SVF-2 (M0 = 230 lb, 

C = 2.0) (Ref. 4). Scharton also validated the semi-empirical force-limiting method with in-flight force 

measurements for SVF-2 and the Cosmic Ray Isotope Spectrometer (CRIS). During the SVF-2 

(M0 = 230 lb) flight, the C value measured was 1.38; the in-flight C value measured for CRIS (M0 = 65 lb) 

was 1.30 (Ref. 2). 

2.2 CoNNeCT Finite Element Models

For the CoNNeCT project, both force-limiting testing and analysis were implemented. The 

CoNNeCT flight system is mounted to an EXPRESS Payload Adapter (ExPA), which was not available 

for the system level vibration testing. Also not available for the system level vibration testing was the 

Antenna Pointing System (APS) and its associated control electronics (Gimbal Control Electronics, 

GCE), which sits on the starboard radiator panel (top panel during testing) of the CoNNeCT flight 

system. Mass simulators of the APS and the GCE were therefore used for the system level test. This use 

of mass simulators during the system level vibration testing led to the development of two Finite Element 

Models (FEMs); Figure 7 shows the CoNNeCT Flight Configuration and shows the CoNNeCT Test 

Configuration. The CoNNeCT Test Configuration FEM was identical to the CoNNeCT Flight 

Configuration FEM except for the incorporation of the APS and GCE mass simulators in the CoNNeCT 

flight system FEM and the ExPA FEM being replaced by the test fixture FEM. The JAXA requirements

specified the vibration input under the ExPA. Therefore, the vibration input was applied under the test 

fixture for analysis and testing. The CoNNeCT flight system FEM was updated several times before, 

during, and after system level vibration testing. The updates before testing were part of design maturation 

and changes. The updates during and after testing were based on low level test data to provide more 

accurate response limit predictions for the system components during the test. Each time the FEM was 

updated, a new set of analyses, force limit curves, and component evaluation was completed. The test 

fixture was correlated during the fixture certification survey prior to the start of vibration testing. 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 6

Figure 7.—CoNNeCT Flight Configuration (left); Test Configuration (right)

Analysis presented in this report is based on the Version 11 Revision 2 (released January 6, 2011)

FEM of the CoNNeCT flight system. This FEM was updated based on the results of the system level 

vibration test. The CoNNeCT flight system weight was measured in the lab prior to testing and the FEM 

weight was adjusted to match the measured results. The total weight of the flight configuration FEM 

(CoNNeCT flight system and ExPA mounting platform) is 795.35 lb; of which 527.86 lb is the 

CoNNeCT flight system. The CoNNeCT Test Configuration FEM (CoNNeCT flight system and test 

fixture) total weight is 741.40 lb; of which 519.72 is the CoNNeCT flight system. The primary difference 

in the weight of the CoNNeCT flight system is due to the APS mass simulator used in the test 

configuration. The CoNNeCT Flight Configuration FEM has a total of 314,574 degrees of freedom and 

the test configuration has a total of 342,708 degrees of freedom. 

The boundary condition for the random vibration analysis is enforced acceleration at the rigid

interface between the ExPA/launch vehicle (flight configuration) or the test fixture/shaker table (test 

configuration). At the base of each of the FEMs is a rigid element (RBE2) connected from the center out 

to all the attach points of the models. In the flight configuration, the rigid element attached to the seven

locations where the ExPA interfaced with the carrier (Figure 9). For the test configuration, the rigid 

element was attached at the 36 locations where the test fixture bases bolted to the shaker table (Figure 9).

Enforced acceleration excitation was applied at the rigid interface with the input flight (4.0 grms) and 

protoflight (5.66 grms) acceleration spectrums provided by JAXA (Figure 8). In both models, the 

acceleration was applied to the center (independent) node of the rigid element.

3.0 Implementation of Force-Limiting for CoNNeCT Flight System

The semi-empirical force-limiting approach was used for force-limiting analysis as GRC was not 

provided with the JAXA launch vehicle interface (source) impedance.

When using the semi-empirical method, the mass (M0) is determined from the most recent CoNNeCT 

flight system FEM, which includes the ExPA or test fixture depending on the configuration being 

analyzed. The CoNNeCT flight system weight/mass was updated based on the weight measurements 

taken during CoNNeCT system level vibration testing. SAA, the acceleration spectral density, is based on 

the JAXA provided input acceleration spectrum. The fundamental resonant frequency, f0, is obtained from 

a modal analysis of the payload FEM or from a low-level random vibration test. The C value, the dynamic 

amplification factor, is chosen based on the configuration of the flight system (load) impedance and 

launch vehicle interface (source) impedance. 

CoNNeCT

Flight 

System

EXPA

CoNNeCT

Flight 

System

Test 

Fixture

Dynamic 

Simulator
NASA/TM—2012-217627 7

Figure 8.—Unnotched Protoflight and Flight Input Acceleration Spectrums

Figure 9.—CoNNeCT Flight Configuration (left) and Test Configuration (right) Input Acceleration Locations

Node where input acceleration is applied
NASA/TM—2012-217627 8

A listing of C values used on payloads weighing between 1 and 8,380 lb is listed in Appendix A. 

Note these C values range from 0.7 to 2.2. For the CoNNeCT flight system, a value of C = 2.0 was 

chosen in lieu of not having the JAXA HTV launch vehicle impedance data and being conservative 

compared to the provided values listed in Appendix A. The selection of C = 2.0 for the CoNNeCT flight 

system was also reviewed by NASA force-limiting experts Terry Scharton (retired JPL) and Daniel S. 

Kaufman (GSFC) and has their concurrence. Load impedance analysis of the test data was performed by 

Daniel S. Kaufman, which verified the selection of C = 2 (Section 5.0). A better method for choosing a C

value would be to use the coupled system FEM, which includes both the load (CoNNeCT flight system)

and source (launch vehicle) impedances. For CoNNeCT, the source impedance data was not available for 

analysis or testing. 

In force-limiting vibration testing, the shaker controller adjusts the shaker’s vibration level such that it 

meets the controlled average acceleration Power Spectral Density (PSD) at the base of the test article 

while the controlled average force PSD at the base of the test article is limited to a user defined forcelimiting curve. Hence during testing, the shaker controller automatically takes care of notching the input 

acceleration PSD based on the user defined force-limiting curve.

In force-limiting analysis, the same methodology is used as in force-limiting testing. The same force 

limits that are applied in testing are also applied in the random vibration base shake analysis. Because 

MSC NASTRAN SOL 103 cannot duplicate the notching function of the shaker controller, the following 

steps are used in a NASTRAN force-limited base shake random vibration analysis: 

Step 1. Apply the input acceleration PSD (unnotched, Figure 7) to the model and recover the force 

PSD (FPSD) at the node where the input spectrum is applied. For CoNNeCT the input 

acceleration PSD is applied at the center node of the rigid element that connects to all the 

model interface points (Figure 8).

Step 2. Create a force-limited PSD (FL_FPSD) based on the semi-empirical equations (Eqs. (1a)

and (1b)) using the C value, input acceleration PSD, fundamental resonant frequency, and 

the total weight of the payload. The frequency of the largest peak from Step 1 is f0 and is 

used in the semi-empirical equation. 

Step 3. Create the notched new acceleration input PSD (Eq. (2)). Whenever the force PSD 

recovered in Step 1 exceeds the force-limited PSD from Step 2, the input acceleration PSD 

will be notched, creating a new input acceleration PSD. The depth of the notch is calculated 

based on the ratio of the force-limited PSD (FL_FPSD) to the recovered force PSD (FPSD).

If the ratio (FL_FPSD divided by FPSD) is greater than 1.0 (if the recovered force is less 

than the force-limited PSD), the new input acceleration PSD equals the original input 

acceleration PSD. 

1

FPSD

FL_FPSD *Original_Accel_PSD , FPSDFL_FPSD New_Accel_PSD  <



 



 



 



 = (2a)

1

FPSD

FL_FPSD New_Accel_PSD Original_Accel_PSD ,  ≥



 



 = (2b)

Equation (2)—Notched New Input Acceleration PSD

Step 4. Apply the notched new input acceleration PSD to the finite element model in a random base 

shake analysis and recover the desired response data. Another option that would avoid 

repeating the entire FEA with the new notched input acceleration PSD would be to recover 

frequency response functions (FRFs) of all desired response data in Step 1. Multiplying the 

new notched input acceleration PSD by the FRF2 results in a response PSD. 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 9

Figure 10 shows three force-limiting curves using three commonly selected C values, C = 1.41, C = 2, 

and C = 3 compared with the unlimited force PSD recovered at the base of a CoNNeCT FEM from a 

random vibration base shake analysis. The figure illustrates as the C value decreases, the interface force 

will also be reduced. 

Figure 11 shows the unnotched, and notched input acceleration PSD created from the force limits

shown in Figure 10 for C = 2.0. A value of C = 2.0 is shown as it relevant to the CoNNeCT project testing 

and analysis. Figure 5 shows the three notched acceleration spectrums corresponding to the force limits 

used in Figure 10 for C = 1.41, C = 2.0, and C = 3.0.

Figure 12 shows the force PSD (X Axis C = 2) recovered when the notched new input acceleration 

PSD, using C = 2.0, is applied to the CoNNeCT FEM. Also shown are the force PSD from the unnotched 

input spectrum (X Axis Unnotched), and the semi-empirical force-limiting curve (Force Limit C = 2). 

Note how the new force PSD (X-Axis C = 2) has been limited compared to the semi-empirical force limit 

(Force Limit C = 2).

4.0 CoNNeCT System Vibration Testing

The methodology for implementing force-limiting for testing and analysis is the same. For a 

traditional base shake analysis or test, the high interface impedance at the test article to shaker interface 

results in a conservative (high) test article response. By implementing force-limiting, the impedance 

mismatch is accounted for, and a more realistic flight response is obtained. 

Figure 10.—Example Force Limit Spectra

1

10

100

1000

10000

100000

1000000

20 200 2000

PSD (lbf2/Hz)

Frequency (Hz)

Force Spec (Limiting Curves vs. Recovered Forces) X Axis

X Axis Unnotched 

Force Limit C=3

Force Limit C=2

Force Limit C=1.41
NASA/TM—2012-217627 10

Figure 11.—Example Notched Input Acceleration Spectrum

Figure 12.—Example Limited Force PSD

0.0001

0.001

0.01

0.1

1

20 200 2000

PSD (G^2/Hz)

Frequency (Hz)

X Axis Random Input Spectrum

Original Accel PSD (5.67Grms)

Notched Accel PSD C=2 (5.47Grms)

1

10

100

1000

10000

100000

1000000

20 200 2000

PSD (lbf2/Hz)

Frequency (Hz)

Force Spec (Limiting Curves vs. Recovered Forces) X Axis

X Axis Unnotched 

X Axis C=2

Force Limit C=2

 

 

 

 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 11

The semi-empirical approach was used for the CoNNeCT system level vibration testing that took 

place in the Structural Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) at GRC on December 19, 2010 to January 7, 2011.

Figure 13 shows the Y axis test setup and Figure 14 shows the Z axis test setup with a callout to the load 

cell locations. C = 2.0 was used during testing. The force-limiting analysis spectrum is based on the same 

methodology used during the CoNNeCT system vibration testing. Therefore, the interface forces applied 

in the CoNNeCT flight analysis model are representative of the forces seen by the CoNNeCT system 

vibration test article during protoflight testing. The force-limiting curves that were imposed in both 

instances produce very similar interface forces between the CoNNeCT flight system and its mounting 

structure (EXPA in flight configuration and test fixture in test configuration).

Figure 13.—CoNNeCT System Vibration Testing Y Axis Base Shake

Figure 14.—CoNNeCT System Vibration Testing Z Axis Base Shake

Load Cell between test 

fixture and mounting block

Test Fixture

Mounting 

Block

Shake Axis

Shake Axis
NASA/TM—2012-217627 12

Equations (1a) and (1b) define the semi-empirical force-limiting method. The roll-off factor, n, was 

initially picked to be 2. To determine the roll-off factor, n, from a low-level test, the asymptotic apparent 

mass is used. The apparent mass is defined to be the frequency response function (FRF) of the reaction 

force (sum of the load cell measurements) divided by the applied base acceleration (acceleration of the 

shaker slip table/expander head at the center of the test articles footprint) and therefore has a real and 

imaginary component (Ref. 5). This is an accurate estimate of the true apparent mass for frequencies 

below which the shaker slip table or expander head do not flex. One method used to calculate the 

asymptotic apparent mass, which is a real quantity, is to take the geometric average of the magnitude of 

the apparent mass (i.e., FRF of base acceleration to reaction force) over frequency, such that there is an 

equal area of the magnitude of the apparent mass curve above and below the asymptotic apparent mass 

line when plotted with log-log scaling. The roll-off factor, n, is then twice the slope of the roll off of the 

asymptotic apparent mass line when plotted on a log-log scale. The roll-off factor, n, is twice the slope of 

the asymptotic apparent mass line (scalar function) because it is being used to define the input force PSD

(power function) (Refs. 6, 7, and 8). Figure 15 to Figure 17 presents the test-based apparent mass and 

asymptotic apparent mass of the CoNNeCT flight system during the system level vibration test. It can be 

seen the slope of the roll off of each asymptotic apparent mass line is approximately unity. Thus, the rolloff factor of n = 2 is used during the force limited system level test. The knee in the asymptotic apparent 

mass curve is at the same frequency, f0 that is used in the force limited semi-empirical equations.

Figure 15.—X Axis Apparent Mass (blue) and Asymptotic Apparent Mass (red)
NASA/TM—2012-217627 13

Figure 16.—Y Axis Apparent Mass (blue) and Asymptotic Apparent Mass (red)

Figure 17.—Z Axis Apparent Mass (blue) and Asymptotic Apparent Mass (red)

The semi-empirical force limits for the CoNNeCT system test were calculated using M0 = 635 lb (this 

was the total weight above the load cells), C = 2.0, n = 2, and f0 found from a low level random vibration 

test run. For the CoNNeCT flight system, the X-Axis fundamental frequency is f0 = 125 Hz; the Y-Axis 

fundamental frequency is f0 = 119 Hz; and the Z-Axis fundamental frequency is f0 = 87 Hz. Appendix B
NASA/TM—2012-217627 14

provides the actual calculations of the test force limits for each axis. Figure 18 to Figure 20 present the 

total load cell force recovered during the CoNNeCT system vibration test with the force-limiting 

spectrum superimposed for each axis tested. Each figure shows how the load cell response was limited by 

the semi-empirical force limit spectrum during the test within the test control tolerances. 

Figure 18.—X Axis Total Load Cell Force

Figure 19.—Y Axis Total Load Cell Force
NASA/TM—2012-217627 15

Figure 20.—Z Axis Total Load Cell Force

When force limits are applied during a vibration test, the shaker controller automatically notches the 

input acceleration spectrum. In force-limiting analysis, the input spectrum must be notched manually 

using the procedure described in Section 4.0 of this document. The CoNNeCT analysis model was 

updated (Version 11 Revision 2) based on the results of the system vibration test, and new notched input 

spectrums were created. Figure 21 to Figure 23 present the predicted notched input spectrum overlaid 

with the average control response from the CoNNeCT system vibration test. For each axis, the two 

spectrums (analysis vs. test) follow similar trends in the lower frequency range (< 300 Hz). The 16 dB 

notch in the Z Axis test may have been excessive; Sections 6.0 and 7.0 address this issue. Also, the high 

frequency notches (due to the test fixture interactions) that appear in the analysis predictions were not 

representative of the test. The differences between the test and analysis curves in Figure 21 to Figure 23

are due to differences in the as built hardware and the FEM. 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 16

Figure 21.—X Axis Input Acceleration Spectra (Test vs. Analytical Prediction)

Figure 22.—Y Axis Input Acceleration Spectra (Test vs. Analytical Prediction)

Prediction 

11.9 dB

Test 

5.9 dB

Prediction 

7.3 dB

Test 

5.2 dB
NASA/TM—2012-217627 17

Figure 23.—Z Axis Input Acceleration Spectra (Test vs. Analytical Prediction)

5.0 Force Limits Evaluation

Due to the unavailability of the CoNNeCT launch vehicle mounting structure (source impedance) 

following the system vibration test, Daniel S. Kaufman (GSFC) provided a report to GRC evaluating the 

selection of C = 2.0 and an overall assessment of the test force limits. The report summarizes three load 

impedance methods used to independently evaluate the semi-empirical force-limiting method and 

provides added confidence in the force limits imposed during system level vibration testing (Ref. 9).

1. Bias Impedance

2. Accelerance

3. Q Method

These methods are not meant to give exact force limits but, rather to provide bounds on the force limits. 

In general force limit calculations consist of finding a force spectrum based on a given acceleration 

spectrum. Each of the methods described above along with the semi-empirical method entails the 

calculation of an impedance function. The basis of the force-limiting methodology is that the applied 

force limits are representative of the flight forces.

The following briefly describes each of the force limit methods that were used in Kaufman’s report 

(Ref. 9). 

Unnotched force:

Sffu (f ) = [WL (f )] 2 Saau (f )

where

Sffu(f) unnotched force spectral density [lbf2

/Hz]

WL(f ) is the driving point apparent mass or acceleration impedance of the article [lb/g]

Saau(f ) unnotched acceleration spectral density [g2

/Hz]

Prediction 

11.4 dB

Test 

16.0 dB
NASA/TM—2012-217627 18

Load Impedance Force Limits or forces to notch: the unnotched acceleration is multiplied by an 

attenuation function with respect to the load impedance.

Sffn (f)= K(f) Saau (f)

where

Sffn(f) Notched force spectral density [lbf2

/Hz]

K(f) Force limit factor [lbf2

/g2]

Semi-empirical method: (SE)

K(f) = C2 M 2 for f < f0

K(f) = C2 M 2 (f/f1)

–n for f > f0

where

M Test item static mass [lb]

C Factor for semi-empirical approach (CoNNeCT used a value of 2.0)

f0 Test item first major mode with the largest effective mass [Hz] 

n Roll-off factor (n=2 is a starting reference, but it has to be evaluated and adjusted based on 

additional considerations such as measured test article apparent mass characteristics)

Bias Impedance method: 

Wb (f) = Wmin(f) + 0.1 [Wmax(f) – Wmin(f)]

K(f) = [Wb (f)]

2

where

Wb(f) Biased acceleration impedance [lb/g]

Wmin(f) Minimum acceleration impedance [lb/g]

Wmax(f) Maximum acceleration impedance [lb/g]

Accelerance method: 

K(f) = [Al(f) AlE(f)]

–1

where

Al(f) Load accelerance [g/lb]

AlE(f) Load accelerance envelope [g/lb]

Q method: 

K(f) = Meff(f)

2 Q(f) + Mres(f)2

where

Q(f) Amplification factor

Meff(f) Effective mass of mode f (or weight) [lb]

Mres(f) Residual Mass mode f [lb]

Figure 24 thru Figure 26 compare all four force limit methods to the unnotched test forces Sffu(f ) and the 

measured test forces SffT. For the X Axis (Figure 24) and Y Axis (Figure 25), Kaufman suggests that the 

force limits applied during the CoNNeCT system test with a C = 2.0 were adequate because the semiempirical method with C = 2 enveloped the other three methods. However, for the Z Axis (Figure 26), 

Kaufman recommended changing f0 = 87 Hz to f0 = 200 Hz, due to the presence of a second high effective 

mass mode. By using f0 = 87 Hz in the CoNNeCT system test, the resulting notches at ~200 Hz in the Z Axis 

were too deep compared to the other three impedance methods. However, the C = 2.0 value is still adequate. 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 19

Figure 24.—X Axis Force Limits

Figure 25.—Y Axis Force Limits
NASA/TM—2012-217627 20

Figure 26.—Z Axis Force Limits

6.0 Component Qualification Assessment Due to Z Axis Force Limits

Kaufman’s force-limiting findings for CoNNeCT (Ref. 9) recommended evaluating hardware 

qualification in the Z-axis due to the force limits (deep notches) at 200 Hz. The purpose of the CoNNeCT 

system protoflight test is for mission assurance. The Starboard radiator panel is driven by panel bending 

in the Z-axis test. The Starboard radiator components (top panel, Figure 27) include: the General 

Dynamics (GD) Software Defined Radio (SDR), JPL SDR, Radio Frequency (RF) Plate, Antenna 

Pointing System (APS), the Thermostat Control Box (TCB) and the S-and Low Gain Antenna (LGA).

The S-Band LGA was not considered in the component qualification assessment because it has no 

electro-mechanical components and was not instrumented during system testing. The APS was also not 

considered in the component qualification assessment as it was represented as a dynamic simulator during 

system testing.

Results of the Starboard component qualification assessment include: (1) The GD SDR and the RF 

Plate were exposed to protoflight levels. (2) The JPL SDR and the Thermostat Control box also saw 

protoflight test levels except in the narrow band at 200 Hz, where these components were exposed to at 

least MEFL (flight) test levels. Based on this assessment, and the fact that the test met NASA-STD-7001 

requirements, all the testing objectives and requirements were met.
NASA/TM—2012-217627 21

Figure 27.—CoNNeCT Component Layout on Starboard Radiator Panel (Top Panel).

7.0 Lessons Learned and Recommendations 

Although the vibration testing that took place on the CoNNeCT flight system was considered a 

success, several invaluable lessons were taken from the experience. 

1) Due to the test boundary conditions, the CoNNeCT system mode at 200 Hz was amplified. The 

test team chose f0 = 87 Hz in the Z-Axis for applying the semi-empirical force-limiting approach 

because the FEM showed 87 Hz to be the fundamental mode. Several factors contributed to this 

amplification: the head expander on the vertical shaker has elastic modes at 230 Hz (not mass 

loaded), and the test fixture used during the CoNNeCT testing has a 206 Hz elastic mode (not 

mass loaded). These modes coupled with a CoNNeCT system mode to produce the response seen 

during the system vibration test. To better understand the fixture interactions, further evaluation 

should have been performed to determine the effect on the test hardware. Force limits could 

potentially have been opened up in the roll off frequency range (>200 Hz).

2) Selection of the C value for the semi-empirical method using historical test data alone is not 

enough to justify the value selected. Ivan Soucy (Ref. 6) provides several checks that should be 

performed prior to testing and checked again after the first low-level vibration run during testing. 

Historical data and similarity checks are one of the steps in choosing a C value. Along with that 

method, Soucy recommends comparison of the semi-empirical force limits to (a) the design limit 

loads to determine an upper bound, (b) the mechanical impedance correction technique by K.A. 

JPL SDR

GD SDR

TCB

RF Plate

APS

ExPA

S Band LGA
NASA/TM—2012-217627 22

Sweitzer (Ref. 10), (c) the coupled loads interface forces (source impedance) if available and (d) 

assess the amount of notching.

3) If possible, the coupled system should be modeled to account for the source impedance to more 

accurately determine the C value used for the semi-empirical method. For CoNNeCT, the source 

impedance information was not available. 

4) Load impedance calculations (Bias Impedance, Accelerance, and Q methods) (Ref. 9) should be 

performed pre-test and evaluated again after low-level testing. These impedance methods should 

cross-check the application of the semi-empirical force limits. 

5) The semi-empirical force-limiting method requires the selection of the frequency of the 

fundamental system mode. However, if there is another high effective mass mode higher in the 

frequency range, careful consideration must be applied to make sure excessive force limits are not 

applied. A modal analysis of the test article/test fixture with test verified models (this would 

require a modal testing effort) would allow much more insight into the behavior of the system. 

The test team would then be able to scrutinize the test data more thoroughly and with more 

insight when picking the fundamental system modes. In the case of CoNNeCT, two high effective 

mass modes did exist. In the flight boundary condition, these two modes were at 77 and 142 Hz, 

and in the test boundary condition, the two modes were at 87 and 200 Hz.

The final strength verification for the CoNNeCT flight system will be done analytically. Forcelimiting analysis will be utilized and, the frequency used in the semi-empirical method for the ZAxis will be defined at f0 = 142 Hz to take into account the second high effective mass mode.

6) Force-limiting is a widely accepted approach for performing random vibration tests. However, 

applying force-limiting to a random vibration analysis to be used in a strength or loads 

assessment is not as commonly accepted. Based upon internal reviews, GRC has approved forcelimiting analysis as a viable GRC engineering analysis tool to be used on future GRC projects.

8.0 Conclusion

Force-limiting testing and analyses are powerful tools for creating a more realistic flight excitation for 

space flight hardware. This paper reviews the semi-empirical force-limiting method and presents the steps 

required for implementing the semi-empirical force-limiting method to a NASTRAN Finite Element 

Model force-limiting analysis. However, to avoid any confusion with properly selecting a fundamental 

modal frequency a modal test and FEM correlation effort should be completed. Ultimately, the forcelimiting method reduces the risk of over testing and reduces conservatism during analysis by providing 

more realistic flight interface forces during both random vibration testing and analysis. If all the variables 

are taken into account properly, the semi-empirical approach is a simple, but effective method for 

applying force limits. If the semi-empirical force-limiting method is used, other load impedance methods 

(Bias Impedance, Accelerance and Q Method) should also be implemented to add confidence in the C 

value selected. More importantly if any information/data is available about the flight mounting structure 

(source impedance) it should be used in conjunction with the payload model to produce the force limits.

This paper reviewed the force limited testing and analysis of the CoNNeCT flight payload performed 

using the semi-empirical approach in a force-limited analysis. The force-limiting analysis results are 

compared with actual test data recovered from the CoNNeCT system protoflight test. The CoNNeCT 

system protoflight test was deemed successful. Lessons learned are to be applied to future tests at NASA 

Glenn Research Center. 

The most important aspect of force-limiting testing and/or analysis is the understanding of the 

impedance at the flight interface (both load and source impedance). A coupled FEM that included both 
NASA/TM—2012-217627 23

load and source would help to better define a more realistic force limit value. Also, the interface force 

recovered from the analysis of the coupled FEM could then be used as a more realistic testing input 

requirement. The semi-empirical method and a C value could then be calculated to match or envelop the 

forces recovered from the coupled system model and used as a test input if desired. However, if nothing is 

known about the source impedance all of the methods outlined in the lessons learned need to be applied 

before testing and re-evaluated after low level testing has been completed to help ensure proper force 

limits are used.

NASA/TM—2012-217627 25

Appendix A.—Historical Force-Limiting C Values

Flight Data

Payload Organization Weight, 

lb

C

value

Reference

no.

CRIS instrument JPL 65 1.3 11

SVF-2 Canister JPL 230 1.4 12

Blank Brant Experiment GSFC 1 1.6 13

Spacecraft Test Programs

Payload Organization Weight, 

lb

C

value

Reference

no.

Cassini JPL 8,380 0.7 14

MER JPL 2143 1 15

GALEX OSC 640 2 16

Deep Space JPL 1070 2 17

Cassiope CSA 1077 1.4 18

MOST CSA 116 2.2 19

NASA/TM—2012-217627 27

Appendix B.—CoNNeCT Force Limits Calculations

TABLE B.1.—RANDOM VIBRATION SPECIFICATION—X-AXIS FORCE LIMITING CALCULATIONS

(a) CoNNeCT Protoflight Level

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 0.0007 * * * * *

80.00 0.0356 17.06 2.00 8.53 0.74 0.86

400.00 0.0356 0.00 2.32 0.00 12.13 3.48

2000.00 0.0053 –8.24 2.32 –3.55 32.05 5.66

C = 2.00, n = 2.00, M = 635.00, F0 = 125.00

(b) Calculation of ASD at F0 = 125 Hz

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms Sff

20.00 0.0007 * * * * * 1129.03

80.00 0.0356 17.06 2.00 8.53 0.74 0.86 57419.24

125.00 0.0356 0.00 0.64 0.00 1.60 1.27 57419.24

400.00 0.0356 0.00 2.32 0.00 12.13 3.48 5607.35

2000.00 0.0053 –8.27 4.00 –2.07 21.25 4.61 33.39

(c) Force Limited Semi-Empirical Method

FREQ, 

Hz

Sff,

lb2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 1129.0300 * * * * *

80.00 57419.2400 17.06 2.00 8.53 1192157.79 1091.86

125.00 57419.2400 0.00 0.64 0.00 3776023.59 1943.20

400.00 5607.3477 –10.10 1.68 –6.02 8710489.53 2951.35

2000.00 33.3921 –22.25 2.32 –9.58 9707162.77 3115.63

(d) Force Limited Simplified Method

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 57419.2400 * * * * *

125.00 57419.2400 0.00 2.64 0.00 6029020.20 2455.41

2000.00 228.0000 –24.01 4.00 –6.00 12790390.65 3576.37
NASA/TM—2012-217627 28

TABLE B.2.—RANDOM VIBRATION SPECIFICATION—Y-AXIS FORCE LIMITING CALCULATIONS

(a) CoNNeCT Protoflight Level

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 0.0007 * * * * *

80.00 0.0356 17.06 2.00 8.53 0.74 0.86

400.00 0.0356 0.00 2.32 0.00 12.13 3.48

2000.00 0.0053 –8.24 2.32 –3.55 32.05 5.66

C = 2.00, n = 2.00, M = 635.00, F0 = 119.00

(b) Calculation of ASD at F0

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms Sff

20.00 0.0007 * * * * * 1129.03

80.00 0.0356 17.06 2.00 8.53 0.74 0.86 57419.24

119.00 0.0356 0.00 0.57 0.00 2.13 1.46 57419.24

400.00 0.0356 0.00 1.75 0.00 12.13 3.48 5081.96

2000.00 0.0053 –8.27 2.32 –3.56 31.98 5.65 30.26

(c) Force Limited Semi-Empirical Method

FREQ, 

Hz

Sff,

lb2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 1129.0300 * * * * *

80.00 57419.2400 17.06 2.00 8.53 1192157.79 1091.86

119.00 57419.2400 0.00 0.57 0.00 3431508.15 1852.43

400.00 5081.9616 –10.53 1.75 –6.02 8231613.07 2869.08

2000.00 30.2634 –22.25 2.32 –9.58 9134902.01 3022.40

(d) Force Limited Simplified Method

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 57419.2400 * * * * *

119.00 57419.2400 0.00 2.57 0.00 5684504.76 2384.22

2000.00 208.0000 –24.41 4.07 –6.00 12154038.01 3486.26
NASA/TM—2012-217627 29

TABLE B.3.—RANDOM VIBRATION SPECIFICATION—Z-AXIS FORCE LIMITING CALCULATIONS

(a) CoNNeCT Protoflight Level

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 0.0007 * * * * *

80.00 0.0356 17.06 2.00 8.53 0.74 0.86

400.00 0.0356 0.00 2.32 0.00 12.13 3.48

2000.00 0.0053 –8.24 2.32 –3.55 32.05 5.66

C = 2.00, n = 2.00, M = 635.00, F0 = 87.34

(b) Calculation of ASD at F0

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms Sff

20.00 0.0007 * * * * * 1129.03

80.00 0.0356 17.06 2.00 8.53 0.74 0.86 57419.24

87.34 0.0356 0.00 0.13 0.00 1.00 1.00 57419.24

400.00 0.0356 0.00 2.20 0.00 12.13 3.48 2737.56

2000.00 0.0053 –8.27 2.32 –3.56 31.98 5.65 16

(c) Force Limited Semi-Empirical Method

FREQ, 

Hz

Sff,

lb2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 1129.0300 * * * * *

80.00 57419.2400 17.06 2.00 8.53 1192157.79 1091.86

87.34 57419.2400 0.00 0.13 0.00 1613615.01 1270.28

400.00 2737.5612 –13.22 2.20 –6.02 5533586.97 2352.36

2000.00 16.3023 –22.25 2.32 –9.58 6020172.45 2453.60

(d) Force Limited Simplified Method

FREQ, 

Hz

ASD,

G2/Hz

dB OCT dB/OCT AREA Grms

20.00 57419.2400 * * * * *

87.34 57419.2400 0.00 2.13 0.00 3866611.62 1966.37

2000.00 112.0000 –27.10 4.52 –6.00 8692365.96 2948.28
NASA/TM—2012-217627 30

References

1. Avitabile, Peter, “Why You Can’t Ignore Those Vibration Fixture Resonances,” University of 

Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, Sound and Vibration Magazine, March 1999.

2. Scharton, T. D., “Force Limited Vibration Testing,” Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA Technical 

Handbook, NASA-HDBK-7004B, Pasadena, CA, page 18, January 31, 2003.

3. Chang, Kurng Y., “Deep Space 1 Spacecraft Vibration Qualification Testing,” Jet Propulsion 

Laboratory, Pasadena, CA, May 1, 2000.

4. Scharton, T. D., Force Limited Vibration Testing,” Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA Technical 

Handbook, NASA-HDBK-7004B, Pasadena, CA, p. 20, January 31, 2003.

5. Scharton, T. D., “Force Limited Vibration Testing,” Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA Technical 

Handbook, NASA-HDBK-7004B, Pasadena, CA, p. 14, January 31, 2003.

6. Soucy, Y. “On Force Limited Vibration for Testing Space Hardware,” Proceedings of the IMAX 

XXIX Conference, Jacksonville, FL, January 31 – February 3, 2011.

7. Soucy, Y. and Chesser H., “Force Limited Vibration Testing of the MOST Telescope,” Proceedings 

of the 13th Canadian Astronautics Conference - ASTRO 2006, Paper No. 33, Montreal, Canada, 

2006.

8. Soucy, Y. and Klimas, P. “Force Limited Vibration Testing Applied to the JWST FGS OA,” 

Proceedings of the IMAX XXIX Conference, Jacksonville, FL, January 31 – February 3, 2011.

9. Kaufman, Daniel S., “CoNNeCT Force Limits Evaluation,” memorandum to Mark McNelis/NASA 

GRC, March 2, 2011.

10. Sweitzer, K. A., “A Mechanical Impedance Correction Technique for Vibration Tests,” Proceedings 

of the 33rd ATM, Institute of Environmental Sciences, San Jose, CA, pp. 73-76, 1987.

11. NASA-HDBK-7004B, p. 18.

12. NASA-HDBK-7004B, p. 20.

13. Worth, D. W., Kaufman, D. S., “Follow on Validation of Force-Limited Vibration Testing,” 

Proceedings of the 19th Aerospace Testing Seminar, Manhattan Beach, CA, October 2-5, 2002.

14. T. Scharton and K. Chang, “Cassini Spacecraft Force Limited Vibration Test,” Sound and Vibration 

Magazine, March 1998.

15. “Random Vibration Test of Mars Exploration Rover Spacecraft,” T. Scharton and D. Lee, Jet 

Propulsion Laboratory, Spacecraft and Launch Vehicle Dynamic Environments Workshop, Los 

Angeles, CA, 2003 Proceedings.

16. Calculated from data in “GALEX Satellite Random Vibration Test Plan and Procedure,” OSC 9J70-

TP62405.

17. Chang, Kurng Y., “Deep Space 1 Spacecraft Vibration Qualification Testing,” Jet Propulsion 

Laboratory, Pasadena, CA, May 1, 2000.

18. Y. Soucy (a), A. Woronko (b), P. Tremblay (c) and M. O’Grady, “Force Limited Vibration Testing 

Applied to the Cassiope Spacecraft,” Proceedings of the CASI ASTRO 2010 Conference, Toronto, 

ON, Canada, May 4-6, 2010.

19. Y. Soucy and H. Chester, “Force Limited Vibration Testing Applied to the MOST Spacecraft,” 

Canadian Aeronautics and Space Journal, Vol. 51, No. 2, June 2005.

REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE Form Approved 

OMB No. 0704-0188 

The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the 

data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this 

burden, to Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports (0704-0188), 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302. 

Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to any penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB 

control number. 

PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 

1. REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YYYY)

01-09-2012 

2. REPORT TYPE

Technical Memorandum 

3. DATES COVERED (From - To)

4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE

Application of the Semi-Empirical Force-Limiting Approach for the CoNNeCT SCAN 

Testbed 

5a. CONTRACT NUMBER

5b. GRANT NUMBER

5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER

6. AUTHOR(S)

Staab, Lucas, D.; McNelis, Mark, E.; Akers, James, C.; Suarez, Vicente, J.; Jones, Trevor, M. 

5d. PROJECT NUMBER

5e. TASK NUMBER

5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER

WBS 553323.02.01.08 

7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

John H. Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field 

Cleveland, Ohio 44135-3191 

8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION

 REPORT NUMBER

E-18217 

9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Washington, DC 20546-0001 

10. SPONSORING/MONITOR'S

 ACRONYM(S)

NASA 

11. SPONSORING/MONITORING

 REPORT NUMBER

NASA/TM-2012-217627 

12. DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

Unclassified-Unlimited 

Subject Categories: 18, 39, 15, and 16 

Available electronically at http://www.sti.nasa.gov 

This publication is available from the NASA Center for AeroSpace Information, 443-757-5802

13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

14. ABSTRACT

The semi-empirical force-limiting vibration method was developed and implemented for payload testing to limit the structural impedance 

mismatch (high force) that occurs during shaker vibration testing. The method has since been extended for use in analytical models. The 

Space Communications and Navigation Testbed (SCAN Testbed), known at NASA as, the Communications, Navigation, and Networking 

re-Configurable Testbed (CoNNeCT), project utilized force-limiting testing and analysis following the semi-empirical approach. This paper 

presents the steps in performing a force-limiting analysis and then compares the results to test data recovered during the CoNNeCT forcelimiting random vibration qualification test that took place at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) in the Structural Dynamics Laboratory 

(SDL) December 19, 2010 to January 7, 2011. A compilation of lessons learned and considerations for future force-limiting tests is also 

included. 

15. SUBJECT TERMS

Impedance; Vibration tests; Dynamic tests; Random vibration; Dynamic models 

16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF

 ABSTRACT

UU 

18. NUMBER

 OF 

 PAGES

40 

19a. NAME OF RESPONSIBLE PERSON

STI Help Desk (email:help@sti.nasa.gov) 

a. REPORT

U 

b. ABSTRACT

U 

c. THIS 

PAGE

U 

19b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (include area code)

443-757-5802 

Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8-98)

Prescribed by ANSI Std. Z39-18