Parametrized variational principles in dynamics applied to the optimization of dynamic models of plates

Abstract

We investigate the use of Parametrized Variational Principles (PVP) in linear structural dynamics. Our main objective is to assess whether the free parameters can be used to enhance the accuracy of dynamic models on a fixed mesh. Consistent, boundary-consistent and lumped mass matrices are defined within the framework of the PVP. The accuracy provided by three different mass matrices in the computation of plate frequencies is numerically studied. A method to update the free parameters on an element by element basis to improve the dynamic model is presented. Numerical experiments that characterize that improvement for the vibration and transient-response analysis of plates are presented. These experiments suggest that such update is primarily beneficial for modes in the intermediate frequency range.

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