First-Order Eigen-Perturbation Techniques for Real-Time Damage Detection of Vibrating Systems: Theory and Applications

This manuscript provides a detailed synopsis of the contemporary advancements in the nascent area of real-time structural damage detection for vibrating systems. The paper mainly focuses on the theoretical development and engineering applications of algorithms that are based on first-order perturbation (FOP) techniques applied to vibration responses. The importance of this work stems from the fact that recent developments in the field of online structural health monitoring (SHM) have given rise to algorithms that are computationally complex and, consequently, are not amenable to real-time implementation. In this paper, we discuss and demonstrate the FOP-based algorithms in the light of all the contemporary nonadaptive/nonrecursive techniques to establish their relevance. We review 216 papers in this regard. The efficacy, efficiency, robustness, and the applicability of the FOP family of algorithms are highlighted in light of several experimental, theoretical, and field studies.