Structural Damage Localization by Modal Strain Energy Change

Structural damage detection, damage localization, based on modal strain energy change is presented in this research. If damage occurs in some members of a structure, stiffness of these members will be reduced and modal parameters; mode shapes and natural frequencies, in damaged structure are different from the undamaged state. The localization of damage is based on computing modal strain energy of each structural element in undamaged and damaged case, determining modal strain energy change so modal strain energy change ratio (MSECR) for each member which members with higher MSECR are suspected to be damaged. Only analytical mode shapes and structural matrices are required in this damage localization approach.