Damage localization in plate-like structure using built-in PZT sensor network

In this study, a Lamb-wave based damage detection approach is proposed for damage localization in plate. A sensor network consisting of three PZT wafer type actuators/sensors is used to generate and detect Lamb waves. To minimize the complication resulted from the multimode and dispersive characteristics of Lamb waves, the fundamental symmetric Lamb mode, <TEX>S₀</TEX> is selectively generated through designing the excitation frequency of the narrowband input signal. A damage localization algorithm based upon the configuration of the PZT sensor network is developed. Time-frequency analysis method is applied to purify the raw signal and extract damage features. Experimental result obtained from aluminum plate verified the proposed damage localization approach.