Damage detection and reliability evaluation of existing structures

Damage detection, localization and assessment are made model-supported. Damage is defined in this paper as a function of parameter changes of the verified and validated mathematical model representing the existing structure under investigation. The advantages of the model-based approach are that (1) one can distinguish between damage of a component and the structure by evaluation of simulated responses with known confidence, (2) possible causes can be found (diagnosis), and (3) trend predictions can be made. The evaluation is based on reliability investigations supported by fuzzy logic decisions.