Modal analysis of anisotropic plates using the boundary element method

A numerical formulation for analysis of dynamic problems of thin anisotropic plates bending is presented. The bending behavior follows Kirchhoff's hypothesis. The formulation is based on the direct boundary element method. The problem is simplified by using the elastostatic fundamental solution of an infinite plate. Domain integrals arising from inertial terms are transformed into boundary integrals using the dual reciprocity technique. Boundary integrals are discretized and evaluated numerically. Natural frequencies for free vibration are obtained and the respective mode shapes are shown. The accuracy of numerical results obtained is assured by comparison with analytical or finite element results.

► A modal analysis of composite plates by the boundary element method is presented.
► Static fundamental solutions are used.
► Inertia terms are considered as body forces.
► No domain discretization: domain integrals are transformed into boundary integrals.
► The formulation provides good results with reduced number of degrees of freedom.