ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT Many methods of damage identification in bridge structures have focused on the use of either numerical models, modal parameters or non-destructive damage tests as a means of condition assessment. These techniques can often be very effective but can also suffer from specific pitfalls such as, numerical model calibration issues for nonlinear and inelastic behaviour, modal parameter sensitivity to environmental and operational conditions and bridge usage restrictions for non-destructive testing. The present paper covers alternative approaches to damage identification of bridge structures using empirical parameters applied to measured vibration response data obtained from two field experiments of progressively damaged bridges subjected to ambient and vehicle induced excitation, respectively. Numerous non-modal vibration-based parameters are detailed and selected for the assessment of either the ambient or vehicle induced excitation data based on their inherent properties.
