On the eigenfrequencies of cantilevered beams carrying a tip mass and spring-mass in-span

Abstract

The present study is concerned with the derivation of the eigenfrequencies and their sensitivity of a cantilevered Bernoulli—Euler beam carrying a tip mass (primary system) to which a spring-mass (secondary system) is attached in-span. After establishing the exact frequency equation of the combined system, a Dunkerley-based approximate formula is given for the fundamental frequency. Using the normal mode method, a second approximate frequency equation is established which is then used for the derivation of a sensitivity formula for the eigenfrequencies. The frequency equations of some simpler systems are obtained from the general equation as special cases. These frequency equations are then numerically solved for various combinations of physical parameters. The comparison of the numerical results with those from exact frequency equations indicate clearly that the eigenfrequencies of the combined system described above can be accurately determined by the present method.