MAC-like damage detection indicator based on strain frequency response function

A method based on Strain Frequency Response Function (SFRF) is presented for identifying damage in structures. Conventional methods such as Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC) are effective to detect damage location as long as the modal shape can be measured experimentally. Under the similar cases, the proposed MAC-like damage detection indicator using strain frequency response function performs better. The applicability of this technique is discussed on the basis of finite element model. A comparison is made with existing damage detection techniques. Results indicate that the SFRF-based MAC-like indicator is more sensitive to damage than conventional MAC. The presented method is simple in identifying the existence of damage and its severity, which can be an alternative to conventional damage detection methods.