Structural damage detection using auto/cross-correlation functions under multiple unknown excitations

Abstract

Traditional structural system identification and damage detection methods use vibration responses under single excitation. This paper presents an auto/cross-correlation function-based method using acceleration responses under multiple ambient white noise or impact excitations. The auto/cross-correlation functions are divided into two parts. One is associated with the structural parameters and the other with the energy of the excitation. These two parts are updated sequentially using a two-stage method. Numerical and experimental studies are conducted to demonstrate the accuracy and robustness of the proposed method. The effects of measurement noise and number of measurement points on the identification results are also studied.