Damage detection by the topology design formulation using modal parameters

The feasibility of using the topology design method for structural damage identification is investigated for the first time. The finite element model of an undamaged structure and some point-frequency response functions of a damaged structure are assumed to be available. To carry out the feasibility study, the topology optimization formulation suitable for structural damage detection is newly set up, where both resonances and anti-resonances are used as the damage indication modal parameters. An idea to progressively reduce the candidate damaged elements is also developed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. Copyright q 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.