Solution of Transcendental and Algebraic Equations with Application to Wave Propagation in Elastic Plates.

Abstract

A numerical method is described by which theoretical formulas governing the propagation of symmetric and antisymmetric waves in elastic plate theory may be evaluated. Vital to evaluating the formulas is the availability of a means for solving transcendental equations. A generalized iterative rootfinder that was developed for this purpose is described. This rootfinder provides the investigator having access to computing facilities with a reliable means for solving transcendental equations. Dispersion curves for both the flexural and extensional waves in rubber, steel, and beryllium plates are calculated and plotted. These curves approach a real value k for the ratio of the Rayleigh to shear wave speeds. Values of this quantity calculated from the exact elasticity theory were compared with those obtained from an approximate formula given by Victorov. In addition, the inflection and the maximum points of the strain distribution throughout a free plate were calculated. It was found that inflection points in the strain distribution do not exist at all frequencies. In addition to a description and flow chart of the iterative rootfinder method, the significant graphs, equations, and computer programs that arose when computing the dispersion curve calculations are included. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 07, 1981
Accession Number
ADA103025

Entities

People

  • C. M. Ruggiero

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Algorithms
  • Beryllium
  • Classification
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Elastic Properties
  • Errors
  • Extrapolation
  • Frequency
  • Iterations
  • Language
  • Materials
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Secondary Waves
  • Sequences
  • Wave Propagation
  • Waves

Readers

  • Calculus or Mathematical Analysis
  • Mechanical Engineering/Mechanics of Materials.
  • Systems Analysis and Design