Vibration-based Damage Localization and Estimation Via the Stochastic Functional Model Based Method (FMBM)— An Overview

Abstract

The Functional Model Based Method is a unique vibration–based approach to damage localization and magnitude estimation in structures under normal operation, capable of operating on naturally arising random vibration signals without human intervention. It employs an innovative data–based stochastic Functional Model representing the partial dynamics under various damage scenarios, estimation techniques, and statistical hypothesis testing. Unlike alternative vibration methods employing data–based models but treat the localization and magnitude estimation approximately, as classification problems, it handles them properly as estimation problems. Among its remarkable properties is its ability to operate with a low number of vibration response sensors and limited/low frequency bandwidth; characteristics important in many applications. In this article an overview of the method and its principles are presented, along with three validation case studies.