Identification of the Structural Defect Type and Size by a Change of the Deformation and Vibration Responses of the Structure.

The article describes a method used to identify the type and size of a structural defect caused by changes in the deformation and vibration responses of the structure. The approach is based on the combined usage of high-precision nondestructive testing tools and the finite element method. The article includes simulation results of the most common damage types for a composite panel. Resonant forms and vibration frequencies of the panel with various damage types are presented. Patterns of changes in vibrational responses of the structure depending on the size of the defect and the nature of damage have been identified. Recommendations are given as to how the most informative vibration forms of an object can be chosen in different cases location of a damaged area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]