Random Decrement: Identification of Structures Subjected to Ambient Excitation

Abstract

This paper demonstrates how to use the Random Decrement (RD) technique for identification of linear structures subjected to ambient excitation. The theory behind the technique will be presented and guidelines how to choose the different variables will be given. This is done by introducing a new concept: Quality Assessment. The identification process and quality assessment is illustrated by an analysis of the ambient response of a two-span concrete bridge.