Diagnostics using different configurations of sensing networks

Abstract

The aim of this work was the investigation and improvement of a Structural Health Monitoring method. This method was based on guided elastic waves propagation. These waves propagate in thin-walled structures guided by their walls. This particular technique has been considered in the literature as very promising. This research concentrated on diagnostics using attached piezoelectric transducers that excite guided elastic waves. Non-contact method of measurement was used. The laser vibrometer was utilized to measure the velocities of out of plane vibrations related to propagating elastic waves. Excited waves propagate and reflect from the discontinuities encountered on their way, therefore registering them one can obtain information about the structural health of the structure. Several sensor arrangements (networks) were investigated. The focus of the research was on possible area of application and limitations of the investigated networks. Presented research was based on laboratory experiments on prepared specimens. Signals gathered in the discrete network nodes were processed in order to obtain diagnostics information for the whole surface monitored. The voltage signals in the time domain were transferred into spatial domain to indicate the damage position. The signal processing oriented on structural diagnostics was realized in the MATLAB environment. © 2011 Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.