Instantaneous Baseline Damage Localization Using Sensor Mapping

In this paper, an instantaneously recorded baseline method is proposed using piezoelectric transducers for damage localization under varying temperature. This method eliminates need for baselines required when operating at different temperatures by mapping a baseline area onto the interrogation area. Instantaneously recorded baselines and current interrogation signals are calibrated based on the sensor mapping. This allows the extraction of damage scatter signal which is used to localize damage. The proposed method is used to localize actual impact damage on a composite plate under varying temperatures. The method is also applied to a stiffened fuselage panel to accurately localize impact damage.