Numerical and asymptotic approaches to scattering problems involving finite elastic plates in structural acoustics

An efficient, flexible and accurate numerical scheme for treating scatterin g problems involving clamped finite elastic plates is developed. Such probl ems are of particular interest in structural acoustics and have relevance t o scattering by panels in underwater acoustics and aerodynamic noise. The s cheme is applied to a single plate in a rigid baffle and also to a periodic array of elastic plates. Considerable effort has been expended in the past to develop asymptotic met hods for treating these problems in various limits such as 'heavy' or 'ligh t' fluid loading or for wide strips. To validate the numerical scheme and a lso to demonstrate the ranges of validity of these approximations, comparis ons between numerical and asymptotic solutions are made. The asymptotic met hods are developed in some detail and some useful approximate formulae are identified. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.