Numerical optimizations in observer-based monitoring of elastic mechanical systems

This contribution deals with a model-based approach for damage detection and localization in elastic mechanical structures. In the case of elastic mechanical structures faults are given by structural changes in mass and/or stiffness, caused by cracks, lost of material or for example by the internal delamination processes of modern CFK-materials. These faults can be understood as virtual forces or torques acting on a faultless structure. Regarding the virtual forces/torques as unknown inputs of a known system, these inputs can be detected and estimated (online) by a Proportional-Integral-Observer (PIO) during nominal system operating conditions. Especially impacts acting on an elastic mechanical structure can be detected and quantified. In the following some design aspects of the PIO are discussed regarding numerical optimization capabilities. Furthermore, the PIO application for both contact estimation and the localization of changes in the mass properties of a cantilever beam are presented.