Random Response of Nonlinear Continuous Systems

Author: Whirley, Robert Gary

Year: 1988

Degree: Dissertation (Ph.D.)

Advisor: Iwan, Wilfred D.

Committee Members: Iwan, Wilfred D.; Beck, James L.; Caughey, Thomas Kirk; Culick, Fred E. C.

Option: Mechanical Engineering

DOI: 10.7907/ezsr-jt33

Abstract

This thesis presents a technique for obtaining the stochastic response of a nonlinear continuous system. First, the general method of nonstationary continuous equivalent linearization is developed. This technique allows replacement of the original nonlinear system with a time-varying linear continuous system. Next, a numerical implementation is described which allows solution of complex problems on a digital computer. In this procedure, the linear replacement system is discretized by the finite element method. Application of this method to systems satisfying the one-dimensional wave equation with two different types of constitutive nonlinearities is described. Results are discussed for nonlinear stress-strain laws of both hardening and softening types.

Files