Monitoring of existing structures and damage identification

The use of data-driven monitoring techniques has been accelerating for some decades, driven by technological advancements in sensor technologies and wireless communication in combination with fast evolutions in data analytics and machine learning/AI. Specifically in the field of vibration-based monitoring, sensing systems are being designed for the purposes of life-time extension, load monitoring, damage detection, the optimisation of (future) designs, etc.

Research focus

In the Dynamics of Solids and Structures section, we develop monitoring methodologies for data-driven assessment and diagnostics of structures, with attention to an optimal integration of physics-based models with machine learning techniques. Specific expertise include sequential Bayesian filtering (online state/input/parameter estimation), model updating, system identification and modal testing, and vibration-based damage detection. Our research is application-driven, with projects involving the instrumentation of full-scale structures like bridges and offshore wind turbines.
 
Industry partners

Rijkswaterstaat (Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management), Dutch Provinces, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy

Contact

Dr. Eliz-Mari Lourens

Hyperparameter optimisation in an offshore wind turbine load monitoring application