POWER FLOW ANALYSIS OF INDETERMINATE ROD/BEAM SYSTEMS USING A SUBSTRUCTURE METHOD

Based on the concepts of a subsystem structural dynamics approach, a general power flow analysis of an indeterminate vibrating system consisting of three rods is presented and discussed. This is achieved by complementing the normal dynamic equations with geometrical compatibility equations allowing assessment of power flow dynamic characteristics applied to and excited within the system. The method may be classified as a form of substructuring using free–free interface conditions. The displacement contribution of the external and boundary coupling forces is deduced, permitting the power flow between the interfaces of substructures to be determined. The method presented is used in a power flow analysis of a simple rod truss system and in a more complex system as demonstrated.