Spot damage estimation of framed structures using modal data

Abstract

This study presents a modal-based damage detection technique for framed structures. A framed structure is tested using a vibration-based method and the mode shapes corresponding to undamaged and damaged states of the structure are obtained. The damage to the framed structure is induced by reducing the stiffness of columns at a particular storey and tested using the shaking table. The corresponding finite element (FE) model was verified for its natural frequency with the experimental model. Moreover, a series of studies were performed by concentrating the damage to a smaller scale by including spot damage on the framed structure and varying the damage location and intensity. The model was analysed using finite element software for these tests and mode shape slope differences and mode shape curvature differences were generated. Derivatives of mode shape slopes were plotted and correlated with the damage location. Mode shape slope is discontinuous and becomes a maximum value close to the damaged location. Mode shape curvatures also show a maximum difference near the damaged location. Finite element model, as well as the experimental investigation, shows the competence of the proposed approach in structural damage identification.