Device Concept for the Generation of Guided Waves for Early Damage Detection

In this study a method for early damage detection is investigated based on the directed excitation and measuring of Lamb waves (guided waves). The objective is to make a statement about the practicability of a Lamb wave generator (LWG) and about the application relevant parameters (specimen materials and dimensions, wave characteristics, excitation, transmission und reflection). Guided waves enable an effective differentiation of structural and defective indications as well as a classification of different defect types. For the investigations, a LWG was developed which combines the advantages of the single excitation of a piezoelectric actuator and the possibility of a group excitation. Algorithms were developed to identify and analyze damage patterns (cracks, wholes, weakening).