A simplified Time Reversal method used to localize vibrations sources in a complex structure

The main issue while dealing with problems due to structural vibrations is the identification of the sources that create annoyance. One of the experimental processes that permit to tackle this reverse problem uses Time Reversal method to localize the origin of the vibration detected on the surface of a structure. The Time Reversal experiment is based on a principle of time symmetry of waves propagation in a media. Using transceivers located on the structure, one can record its state of vibration. If all the signals recorded by the transceivers are reversed in time and reemitted from the position where they have been recorded, the resulting vibration will converge back to the point where it was originally emitted. In the standard approach, localization is observed both in time and space. We propose here a simplified localization process based on space localization only. We will apply this method on a complex industrial structure, stimulated with bursts. We shall show in the article the influence of certain parameters such as the number of transceivers or the structure complexity. Finally, all the tests presented hereby will allow us showing that the Time Reversal method is a very efficient and very easy to use method.