A signal energy approach of acoustic source localization in plate structures using a discrete sensor array

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Materials Science
• Acoustics

Background:

• Structural health monitoring (SHM) commonly uses acoustic source localization (ASL) for early damage detection.
• Existing ASL techniques often require precise time-of-arrival data and complex algorithms, hindering real-time applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a simplified signal energy approach for acoustic source localization in plate structures.
• To enable efficient and real-time damage prediction without prior knowledge of material properties.

Main Methods:

• A novel method utilizing signal amplitude to calculate energy for acoustic source localization.
• Implementation using a discrete sensor array on plate structures.
• Validation through numerical simulations and experimental tests on aluminum and composite plates.

Main Results:

• The proposed signal energy approach demonstrated good accuracy in localizing acoustic sources.
• The method effectively overcomes limitations of existing ASL techniques regarding data acquisition and algorithmic complexity.
• Feasibility and application potential were confirmed on both aluminum and composite plate structures.

Conclusions:

• The developed signal energy approach offers a viable solution for real-time and efficient acoustic source localization.
• This method holds significant potential for widespread application in the structural health monitoring of plate structures.
• The technique's simplicity and independence from material properties enhance its practical utility.