Crack identification in composite elements with non-linear geometry using spatial wavelet transform

A great popularity of constructional polymer composites in industrial applications requires the development of appropriate diagnostic methods for the elements made of these materials. These methods should provide damage detection and identification in possible early stages of its development. A large group of such methods is based on vibration testing and modal analysis. One of the promising techniques of processing vibration data for damage identification is a wavelet transform. Considering the practical needs the method should be applicable for plane structures with non-linear geometry. Results presented in this paper consider numerous analyses including the application of different types of wavelet transforms, different types of wavelet functions and other factors, which have an influence on the accuracy of damage identification. The proposed method shows good effectiveness in damage identification problems and could be applied in industrial conditions as well.

► New wavelet-based damage identification algorithm was proposed.
► The algorithm was used for the structures with non-linear geometry.
► Comparative studies of an application of different types of wavelet transforms and different types of wavelet functions were presented and discussed.
► The numerical data were tested in the conditions of noise presence in order to test the method for the real measurement conditions.