Analysis of wave propagation in a plate resting on a Winkler foundation with a sample application to vibration control

A variational statement in the field of complex numbers and its semi-analytical solution are presented to study the wave propagation in plates resting on a Winkler foundation. The method and its computer program are verified by comparison with the available results for a freely supported plate and performing a time domain analysis for a plate-Winkler foundation system. A variety of wave propagation phenomena is observed, and useful information can be extracted from the results. The foundation is found to act as a low frequency band-stop filter for flexural modes, and a stiffer foundation leads to wider widths of these stop bands. As a sample application, a barrier design for controlling flexural motions in the system is proposed. The effectiveness of the design is also demonstrated.

► We analyze energy-carrying propagating waves in plate-Winkler foundation system. ► We present a variational statement in complex field and its semi-analytical solution. ► We obtain wave dispersion curves and simulate their time domain behavior. ► We propose an effective barrier design for vibration control as a sample application. ► Effectiveness is attributed to wave property and no material damping contributes.