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Optimal ultrasonic sensor configuration for plate-like structures using the value of information

Abstract:

Condition-based maintenance is based on reliable and effective structural health monitoring systems able to provide accurate information about the health condition of a structure. Among the factors that influence the accuracy and reliability of such systems, the number and position of sensors stand out as key features. As a rule, the larger the number of sensors, the more and better information can be obtained. However, a practical solution is required to find a healthy balance between the cost of the monitoring system and the adoption of the information that they provide as optimality. To rigorously address such optimization problem and provide an optimal design of the monitoring system, this paper proposes the use of the value of information and the expected information gain. The methodology is illustrated using a stiffened plate-like structure with a bounded damaged area, ultrasonic guided-waves as SHM technique, and different sensor positioning strategies. The results reveal the value of information as a rational index to provide optimal ultrasonic sensor configuration and rank different positioning alternatives.