An important part of an investigation of such problems is the measurement of the load-v-deflection characteristics of the machine so that problems of poor stiffness can be readily identified. UNIVIB, however, goes a step further and makes use of its modal analysis software to produce exaggerated, slow-motion animations of the way in which the structure distorts under load. This enables rapid identification of the exact source of the unwanted flexibility.

The stiffness of manufacturing machines, especially metal cutting machine tools such as machining centres, lathes and grinding machines, is important because it governs the magnitude of the displacement, or push-off, of the tool as it deflects under the influence of the cutting forces, and this of course affects the accuracy of the finished component. Many's the time that, in order to achieve the required component accuracy, a second pass comprising a lighter finishing cut has to be performed and this has a knock-on effect on cycle time. The accuracy of components produced by metal forming machines such as presses, guillotines, nibblers etc. can be equally undermined by lack of stiffness of the structure of the machine.

Surface finish problems such as chatter marks associated with chatter vibration during cutting can also sometimes be attributed to a lack of stiffness of the machine on which the operation is being carried out.