Wavelet-based Damage Detection Technique via Operational Deflection Shape Decomposition

Background/Objective: Early detection of damage in structures can prevent loss of lives and extend their service life. This has drawn considerable attention of researchers to applying Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) to detect structural damage. Wavelet Transform (WT) is a tool utilized to identify damage in structures by using structural responses. In this study, a WT damage detection method using Operational Deflection Shape (ODS) difference is presented. Method: A two-dimensional Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) is utilized to decompose the difference between the ODS of the intact and damaged structure to detect and locate damage. To demonstrate the ability of this technique, a numerical model of a steel plate is applied. Findings: The results show that the location of damage influences damage detectability when the decomposed signal is noisy. Improvements: This method eliminates the problem of border distortion experienced when conventional ODS is applied. The methodology shows the proposed techniques’ simplicity while the results show accuracy.