<title>Near-field effects of damage</title>

Abstract

The effects of crack damage on the vibrations of a beam is examined using wave propagation methods. A scattering matrix is developed which explores the relationship between incoming and outgoing structural waves at a crack. Near field waves are examined as an indicator of crack damage. Trends can be seen which would be helpful in determining the presence of a crack in a damage detection scheme. Experimental results show that near field waves increase as a result of crack damage.