In this paper a rotating shaft-disc system, modelled as a series of interco
nnected, distributed and lumped elements is considered. The overall transfe
r matrix of the system formed by series flexible distributed elements and r
igid disc elements is determined, then applying supporting end boundary con
ditions the characteristic determinant of the system is computed. The dampe
d natural frequency of the system is computed by a direct determinant searc
h method. Thereafter a novel method is proposed for the determination of th
e frequency response function. The overall system is identified as a linear
multivariable dynamic system with secund order transfer function elements,
Future applications of this hybrid technique are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsev
ier Science S.A, All rights reserved.