Simplified-super-element-method for analyzing free flexural vibration characteristics of periodically stiffened-thin-plate filled with viscoelastic damping material

• Dynamic matrices of periodic stiffened plate structure filled with viscoelastic material are established by the super-element-method.
• The matrices are simplified by Floquet–Bloch׳s theorem according to its periodicity.
• Research shows that with the increase of the parameters of viscoelastic material such as damping ratio and density, the band-gaps will change.
• Research shows that with the increase lattice constant, the band-gaps will change.
• Research shows that the structure filled with viscoelastic material periodically is more effective than which is non-filled.

Flexural vibration characteristics of a periodically stiffened-thin-plate filled with viscoelastic damping material (VDM) are researched originally based on a simplified-super-element-method (SSEM) according to Floquet–Bloch׳s theorem and super-element-method (SEM). The density, damping ratio (the parameters of the VDM), and the lattice constant of the structure, which impact the frequency characteristics of periodically stiffened-thin-plate, are thoroughly analyzed. The SSEM developed in this research ensured the accuracy and simplified calculation work. It can be used in designing a periodic or quasi-periodic thin plate and shell structures for improving the mechanical property. The advantages of this method are verified by comparing the structures that is and is not filled with VDM.