Non-Destructive Evaluation Method Based on Dynamic Invariant Stress Resultants

Abstract

During the past five decades, research in damage detection has been rapidly expanding. Most of the methods explored are based on changes in frequencies, mode shapes, mode shape curvature, and flexibilities. These methods can only detect and locate damage. Current methods can seldom identify the exact severity of damage to structures. In this research, a new non-destructive evaluation method is proposed to identify the existence, location, and severity of damage for structural systems. Additionally, damage in mass, damping and stiffness will be characterized. The goal of this research is to develop the concept of Dynamic ISR method and apply it to specific types of structures. The method utilizes dynamic analysis of the structures to simulate direct measurements of acceleration, velocity and displacement simultaneously. Numerical results demonstrate that the application of the method will reflect the advanced sensitivity and accuracy of the method in characterizing multiple damage locations.