Application of spectral beam finite element with a crack and iterative search technique for damage detection

This paper presents the use of the wave propagation approach combined with a genetic algorithm and the gradient technique for damage detection in beam-like structures. For modelling the beam structures a new type of beam spectral finite element with a transverse open and non-propagating crack is applied. An iterative strategy for determination of the crack location and size based on genetic algorithm and gradient methods is also described. The objective function utilized by the genetic algorithm and gradient methods is based on differences between measured and calculated dynamic responses in the frequency domain. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.