A new inner product is developed based on the Fourier analysis to study the
scattering of surface waves by a floating semi-infinite elastic plate in a
two-dimensional water domain of finite depth. The eigenfunctions for the p
late-covered region are orthogonal with respect to this new inner product.
The problem is studied for various wave and geometrical conditions. Especia
lly, the influence of different edge conditions on the hydrodynamic behavio
r is investigated and compared. The edge conditions considered in the prese
nt study involve (i) a free edge, (ii) a simply supported edge, and (iii) a
built-in edge. The hydrodynamic performance of an elastic plate is charact
erized for various conditions in terms of wave reflection and transmission,
plate deflection, and surface strain. It is observed that the hydrodynamic
behavior depends on the wave conditions, the geometrical settings, and the
edge conditions. The built-in edge condition induces the maximum wave refl
ection and the minimum wave transmission. The free edge condition leads to
the maximum plate deflection. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.