Papers by Author: Victor Giurgiutiu

Abstract: This paper presents a hybrid finite element and analytical method to predict the 1-D guided wave propagation interaction with damage for nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and structural health monitoring (SHM) application. The finite element mesh is used to describe the region around the damage (defects or flaws). In contrast to other hybrid models developed elsewhere, the interaction between Lamb waves and defects is computed in the time domain using the explicit solver of the commercial finite element method (FEM) software ABAQUS. Analytical methods can perform efficient modeling of wave propagation but are limited to simple geometries. Realistic structures with complicated geometries are usually modeled with the FEM. However, to obtain an accurate wave propagation solution at ultrasonic frequencies is computationally intensive and may become prohibitive for realistic structures. In response to today's complex cases not covered by the simulation tools available, we aim to develop an efficient and accessible tool for SHM applications. This tool will be based on a hybrid coupling between analytical solutions and time domain numerical codes. Lamb wave interaction with a notch is investigated by using this method, and the results obtained are with respect to transmission, reflection and mode conversion. Because of the symmetric mode shape, S0 is more sensitive to the shallow notch than A0. By making use of the fact that the reflection increases with increase in notch depth and mode conversion are maximized when the notch is around half through the thickness of the plate, the reflection and conversion coefficients can be used to characterize the depth of the notch.

Abstract: This paper presents the perspective of the Structural Mechanics program of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research on the damage assessment of structures. It is found that damage assessment of structures plays a very important role in assuring the safety and operational readiness of Air Force fleet. The current fleet has many aging aircraft, which poses a considerable challenge for the operators and maintainers. The nondestructive evaluation technology is rather mature and able to detect damage with considerable reliability during the periodic maintenance inspections. The emerging structural health monitoring methodology has great potential, because it will use on-board damage detection sensors and systems, will be able to offer on-demand structural health bulletins. Considerable fundamental and applied research is still needed to enable the development, implementation, and dissemination of structural health monitoring technology.