Integration of Knowledge-Based Approach in SHM Systems

This paper discusses the potentials for integration of knowledge-based techniques in Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). Knowledge-based techniques and methods reinforce health assessment and influence on predictive maintenance of structures. A concept of the knowledge-based approach is developed. In particular, toolboxes for a simple numerical 3-degree of freedom (dof)-model and for force reconstruction at Canton Tower are implemented, respectively. The case studies deepen the insight into identifying needs in the field of SHM to employ knowledge-based approaches, especially in the reasoning process. The proposed concept lays the ground for future research in the field of SHM for utilizing knowledge-based methods in correlation with SHM algorithms and analysis of feedbacks obtained from sensors, engineering expertise and users former experience. The foresight is to broaden the scope for applying Knowledge Management (KM) techniques and methods towards developing a decision-making component for supporting SHM systems, and in turn fostering the detection, localization, classification, assessment and prediction.