Structural Damage Detection Using Sensitivity-Enhanced Autoregressive Coefficients

This paper presents an innovative technique for structural damage detection based on time series analysis with feedback controllers incorporated into the structure. The sensitivity of autoregressive (AR) coefficients to element stiffness is first derived, and it is proposed that the sensitivity of the AR coefficients can be enhanced by intentionally assigning the poles of the detection system. Finally, an [Formula: see text] control chart is constructed based on the sensitivity-enhanced AR coefficient. Identification of the occurrence of damage is achieved by monitoring statistically significant changes in the control chart. The proposed methodology is validated by examples including a cantilever Euler beam and Phase I of the IASC-ASCE benchmark structure. The simulation results show that by utilizing the sensitivity-enhanced AR coefficients, the control charts are more sensitive to damage and are capable of detecting small levels of structural damage even in the presence of measurement noise.