Disturbance propagation in structural networks

Abstract

A structural network is taken to be an assemblage of slender structural members (beams, cables, rods) connected to each other at structural junctions. The junctions may include flexible bodies which, in this work, are restricted to those whose dynamics are described by a finite set of ordinary differential equations. Elastic disturbances in such a network are calculated in terms of propagation concepts. Members are described in the frequency domain by the propagation coefficients of their intrinsic wave-modes, junctions by frequency-dependent wave-mode reflection and transmission coefficients, grouped in the junction scattering matrix. Component impulse responses are calculated by a combination of analysis and application of the fast Fourier transform algorithm. Network time responses are synthesized by convolution of component impulse responses. A consistent analytical framework is constructed within which descriptions of various member types and junctions can be accommodated. The analysis is set up for computer implementation. Computational examples are used to demonstrate the techniques.