| Structural Engineering and Mechanics Volume 39, Number 2, July25 2011, pages 187-206 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12989/sem.2011.39.2.187 | |
Damage detection in truss bridges using vibration based multi-criteria approach | |
H.W. Shih, D.P. Thambiratnam and T.H.T. Chan
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| Abstract [Full Text] | |
| This paper uses dynamic computer simulation techniques to develop and apply a multicriteria procedure using non-destructive vibration-based parameters for damage assessment in truss bridges. In addition to changes in natural frequencies, this procedure incorporates two parameters, namely the modal flexibility and the modal strain energy. Using the numerically simulated modal data obtained through finite element analysis of the healthy and damaged bridge models, algorithms based on modal flexibility and modal strain energy changes before and after damage are obtained and used as the indices for the assessment of structural health state. The application of the two proposed parameters to truss-type structures is limited in the literature. The proposed multi-criteria based damage assessment procedure is therefore developed and applied to truss bridges. The application of the approach is demonstrated through numerical simulation studies of a single-span simply supported truss bridge with eight damage scenarios corresponding to different types of deck and truss damage. Results show that the proposed multi-criteria method is effective in damage assessment in this type of bridge superstructure. | |
| Key Words | |
| truss bridges; damage assessment; finite element method; vibration; flexibility; strain energy | |
| Address | |
| H.W. Shih, D.P. Thambiratnam and T.H.T. Chan: School of Urban Development, Faculty of Built Environment and Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia | |
