Abstract
Symmetry properties of physical systems may be studied through symmetry groups. In recent times, group theory has found application in the study of various problems in structural mechanics, specifically bifurcation, buckling, kinematics and vibration. Computational simplifications are achieved by decomposing the vector space of the problem into smaller subspaces that are independent of each other. When the basis vectors of a subspace are used as the symmetry-adapted variables of that subspace, a smaller problem (associated with a matrix of smaller dimensions) automatically results. However, the same decomposition may be achieved by first obtaining the structural matrix of the system, and then transforming this into a non-overlapping block-diagonal matrix, each independent block being associated with a subspace of the problem. The advantage of this approach is its greater amenability to computer programming, but it does not always give the correct results unless a very specific procedure is followed. The purpose of this contribution is to present a consistent group-theoretic approach for the block diagonalization of structural matrices.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
