Vibration of continuous systems

KDOM (ME603)

Practice problems

1. A cable of length l and mass per unit length ρ is stretched under a tension P. One end of the cable is
connected to a mass m, which can move in a frictionless slot, and the other end is fastened to a spring
of stiffness k, as shown in Fig. Derive the frequency equation for the transverse vibration of the
cable.

2. If a string of length l, fixed at both ends, is given an initial transverse displacement of h at x=l/3 and
then released, determine its subsequent motion. Compare the deflection shapes of the string at times
t=0, l/(4c), l/(3c), l/(2c) and l/c by considering the first four terms of the series solution.

3. Derive the frequency equation for the longitudinal vibration of a stepped bar having two different
cross-sectional areas resp. Assume fixed-free condition.

4. Prove that the normal functions of a uniform beam, whose ends are connected by springs as shown in
Fig., are orthogonal.
5. Derive the frequency equation for the transverse vibration of a uniform beam resting on springs at
both ends, as shown in Fig . The springs can detect vertically only and the beam is horizontal in the
equilibrium position.

6. (a) Derive a general expression for the response of a uniform beam subjected to an arbitrary force. (b)
Use the result of part (a) to find the response of a uniform simply supported beam under the harmonic
force applied at x = a . Assume the initial conditions as w(x,0)=0 and (x,0)=0 .