Modal Analysis of a Drone Blade — Lesson 1

Modal analysis is used to determine the vibration characteristics of linear elastic structures. Modal analysis calculates the natural frequencies and mode shapes of a structure. Based on the application, we may want to create or avoid resonance (which occurs when the frequency of the applied load matches one of the natural frequencies of the structure). Thus, calculating the natural frequencies is an important step when designing structures.

Follow the steps to complete the modal analysis of a recreational drone blade. Observe the deformation pattern of the mode shapes. Are these deformations as expected? Which mode shapes are most significant in each direction?

Simulation Files

Download the zip file and extract the contents. Go through the Readme file. Follow along with the provided How To Video file. The student version of Ansys simulation software can be downloaded here.