S. K. Kim
M. G. Prasad
Noise and Vib. Control Lab., Dept. of Mech. Eng., Stevens Inst. of Technol., Castle Point on the Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Joints are used extensively in connected structures which are part of machine systems. Joints introduce discontinuity in structures which not only disturb the energy flow but are also possible locations of failure. Thus it is necessary to characterize the joints to determine their rigidity. A joint can be characterized in terms of the energy reflection coefficient and impedance. This study presents both analytical and experimental work on vibration characterization of joints. The analytical work is based on both classical and finite-element methods. The experimental work is based on the two sensor method for impedance measurements. The vibration behavior of a joint is studied in terms of reflection coefficient and impedance. The joints considered are bolted joints in specimen structures such as cantilever beams. Good results are obtained which supports the application of such studies in design and diagnostics of structural joints. [Work supported by Daewoo Motor Company, Seoul, Korea.]