Novel Response Surface Technique for Composite Structure Localization Using Variable Acoustic Emission Velocity.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Structural Health Monitoring
• Non-Destructive Testing

Background:

• Traditional time difference of arrival (TDOA) methods struggle with locating acoustic emission (AE) sources in anisotropic composite materials.
• Accurate AE source localization is crucial for detecting structural defects in fiber-reinforced composites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel algorithm, COmposite LOcalization using Response Surface (COLORS), for precise AE source localization in laminated composites.
• To enhance AE source prediction accuracy by incorporating material-specific parameters.

Main Methods:

• Developed a two-step COLORS algorithm utilizing a response surface based on AE velocity profiles, attenuation rates, distances, and orientations.
• Compared COLORS algorithm performance against the conventional TDOA method using experimental data.

Main Results:

• COLORS algorithm achieved lower mean absolute error (MAE) of 6.97 mm compared to TDOA's 8.69 mm.
• COLORS algorithm demonstrated a lower root mean square error (RMSE) of 9.24 mm versus TDOA's 12.06 mm.
• AE signal attenuation was identified as a key factor in improving AE localization precision.

Conclusions:

• The COLORS algorithm offers superior AE source localization accuracy in composite structures compared to TDOA.
• This advancement has significant implications for improved damage detection and structural health monitoring of composite materials.