Blind test on damage detection of a steel frame structure

At the last meeting on civil engineering structures during the 15th International Modal Analysis Conference (IMAC XV) in Orlando, Florida, the participants agreed to initiate a series of Mind tests to investigate the applicability of the different techniques for damage assessment. This paper presents the information provided to the potential participants in the blind test on damage detection for a steel frame, as well as the solution. For this test, the data was generated from a finite element model of a one-third scale steel frame structure. Removing members or changing member properties in a localized region simulated the damage. Data files containing damaged and undamaged response records were available to groups interested in participating. Those who chose to participate in the blind test exerdse were asked to determine the extent of damage, and if possible, the location where the damage had occurred.