FRF-based structural parameters estimation using strain data: sensitivity equation, measurement and excitation selection

Abstract

In this paper, a structural model updating technique is presented using frequency domain representation of incomplete strain data to identify the location and severity of structural damages. The most important challenges of model updating methods such as selection of excitation, measurement locations and interested frequency ranges are addressed. Distribution of strain energy in all structural elements and norms of the derived sensitivity equation are utilized for the selection of measurement and excitation locations. The important effect of different level of noise in measurement data and modelling error on the accuracy and robustness of the proposed method are investigated. A bowstring truss and a two-storey single-bay frame are used to evaluate the numerical ability of proposed method. The results prove the potentials of the proposed method in identifying the location and severity of damage in the presence of different errors.