Resolution and uncertainty analysis of Bayesian FE model updating applied to the damage assessment in a reinforced concrete beam

In a structural mechanics context, finite element (FE) model updating is often applied to quantify and locate damage in a structure. The aim of FE model updating is to calibrate parameters of a FE model in order to allow for a better correspondence between FE model output and experimental observations of structural behavior. In many cases, the experimental observations consist of modal characteristics of the structure extracted from vibration experiments. When it is assumed that damage can be identified as a decrease in structural stiffness, FE model updating can be used for damage identification by updating some (substructure) stiffness parameters. The FE model updating process involves solving an inverse problem which is subject to measurement and modeling errors. These errors give rise to errors/uncertainties in the predictions that are made by the FE model, and in the results of the FE model updating scheme. In this paper, a probabilistic uncertainty quantification approach based on Bayesian inference is applied to quantify the effects of errors/uncertainties in the FE model updating process. Further, a comprehensive method for a resolution/uncertainty analysis of the results is proposed. The Bayesian approach and subsequent uncertainty analysis are both applied to the vibration-based damage assessment of a reinforced concrete beam. © 2011 Taylor & Francis Group, London.

ISBN:978-0-415-66986-3

Jaar van publicatie:2011

BOF-keylabel:ja

IOF-keylabel:ja

Authors from:Higher Education