Numerical investigations on the accuracy of an automated modal identification technique

Abstract

Systems and techniques for fast damage detection play a fundamental role in the development of effective Structural Health Monitoring systems. Modalbased damage detection algorithms are well-known techniques for structural health assessment but they need reliable and accurate automated modal identification and tracking procedures in order to be effective. In this chapter, the performance of a recently developed algorithm for automated output-only modal parameter estimation is assessed. An extensive validation of the algorithm for continuous monitoring applications is carried out based on simulated data. Different levels of damping are considered. The numerical study demonstrates that the algorithm provides fairly robust, accurate and precise estimates of the modal parameters, including damping ratios.