Multi-crack detection for beam by the natural frequencies

Multi-crack detection for beam by natural frequencies has been formulated in the form of a non-linear optimization problem, then solved by using the MATLAB functions. The spring model of crack is applied to establish the frequency equation based on the dynamic stiffness of multiple cracked beam. The equation is the basic instrument in solving the multi-crack detection of beam. The set of crack parameters to be detected includes not only the crack position and depth, but also the quantity of possible cracks. Numerical result obtained for a cantilever beam with single-, two- and three-cracks scenarios shows an efficiency and acceptability of the hereby proposed procedure.