Studies on Wavelet Packet-Based Crack Detection for a Beam under the Moving Load

The objective of this study is to show the potential of the crack detection method based on Wavelet Packet Transform (WPT), which is depending on the response at a single point on a beam subject to moving load. In this paper, an ANSYS model of a cracked beam is established. The moving load is transient analyzed by shifting the point of the concentrated force. The response at mid-span of the beam is calculated and wavelet packet transformed. The crack on the beam can be found by the abnormal signal in WPT branches. The size is also estimated by a defined damage index (Dindex) which relates to the energy of the abnormal signal. Finally, the effects of both crack location and wavelet selection on Dindex are discussed in detail.