FREE-VIBRATION ANALYSIS OF MINDLIN PLATES WITH UNIFORM ELASTIC EDGE SUPPORT BY THE SUPERPOSITION METHOD

Utilizing the superposition method, a solution is obtained for the fre e vibration eigenvalues of Mindlin plates resting on uniform lateral e lastic edge support. Subsequently, it is shown how minor modifications to the eigenvalue matrix permit the incorporation of the additional e ffects of rotational stiffness into the analysis. Solutions are based on the Mindlin thick plate theory. Convergence is rapid and eigenvalue curves are plotted for square plates and plates of aspect ratio 1.5, for various lateral and rotational spring stiffnesses. Digital results are tabulated in order that other analysts will have reliable data ag ainst which their findings may be compared. (C) 1997 Academic Press Li mited.