Model Updating of a Concrete Beam with Extensive Distributed Damage Using Experimental Frequency Response Function

Abstract

An experimental verification of a parameter estimation algorithm for finite-element (FE) model updating for damage quantification of a concrete beam with extensive damage is presented using the measured frequency response function (FRF) data. The intact stage of the beam and four progressive damage stages are investigated to update the FE model to quantify the damage across the beam. The method uses a subset of measured FRF data for FE model updating via a quasi-linear sensitivity equation of structural response. A least-squares algorithm with an appropriate weighting technique is used for parameter estimation. Proper selection of excitation frequency ranges for model updating is addressed. Predicted equivalent stiffnesses demonstrate the success and robustness of the method in damage quantification, even when using only a subset of the measured FRF data.