New damage localization indicator based on curvature for single-span beams

Most existing damage detection methods based on curvature should investigate the indicator value changes between the intact and damaged state. However, the \'footprint\' in the intact state is usually not available for most actual beams. Therefore, a new damage localization indicator called Difference of Nearby Difference Curvature Indicator (DNDCI) was introduced for single-span beams. This indicator does not require prior information of the intact beam and is sensitive to the damage occurs on or nearby the measuring points. Practical and detailed application method of DNDCI has been proposed. Besides the idealized simply supported beams, it was validated by example that DNDCI is also applicable to the actual single-span beams supported by bearings.