Direct eigenanalysis of constrained system dynamics

Abstract

This work addresses the direct eigenanalysis of the problem that results from the linearization of the dynamics of constrained systems about arbitrary, problem-dependent steady solutions. The procedure is outlined; the expected properties of the eigensolution are illustrated; implementation issues, related to the application of the procedure to an existing multi-body formulation, are addressed. The soundness of the proposed approach is illustrated by a simple, yet exhaustive example, and by the analysis of a relatively detailed model of a flexible helicopter rotor blade.