Reference Material for Undergraduate Level Vibrations Courses

In summary: Start by solving the problem in mechanical terms and then try to use an analogy.In summary, the student is having difficulties understanding the concepts in his vibrations class. He is looking for resources to help him understand the concepts better. He recommends reading books on analytical dynamics or mechanical vibrations.
  • #1
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Hello everyone,

I am a junior Mechanical engineering student with a midterm in my Vibrations I class on Thursday. I've been studying but I'm having some issues really nailing the concepts fundamentally. I feel like I'm stuck in a rut of doing the problem like in the example, but not really understanding what it is that I'm doing.

The two main subjects on this exam are the modeling of vibratory systems and finding governing equations for single degree-of-freedoms systems. Specifically, we've learned a method for representing vibratory systems as circuits, finding equivalent stiffness k for each element and adding them up in series and parallel for the first topic, and using the force-balance method and Lagrange's equations for the second topic.

So my request is for materials. Does anybody know of any resources (online I prefer, but I can get to the library tomorrow if I need to so engineering textbooks might work too), that:

1) Show a lot of examples of this circuit modeling process? My textbook is short on examples and my professor is big on the school of "Don't work out problems and don't give solutions."
2) Explain the Lagrange process? I understand the force-balance method. That makes sense physically. But for the Lagrange I see a lot of math and it's not physically making sense to me.


Thanks a lot for all of your help! Of course, if any of you feel up to explaining Lagrange to me, that would be great too... But honestly any good material anyone has come across would be amazing, because I really have no clue where to start.
 
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  • #2
All lagrange is doing is looking at derivatives of energy to arrive at the equations of motion.

I would recommend Analytical dynamics by Baruh, or mechanical vibrations by Rao.
 
  • #3
As soon as your test is over, forget all about that circuit analogy foolishness. That was perhaps a good idea 75 years ago, but it is simply of no value today when we have all the computing power needed to solve the mechanical problem as stated in mechanical terms. It simply complicates your thinking!
 

1. What is the purpose of reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses?

The purpose of reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses is to provide students with additional resources and information to supplement their learning. This material can include textbooks, lecture notes, practice problems, and other resources that can help students better understand the concepts and principles of vibrations.

2. What topics are typically covered in reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses?

Reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses typically covers topics such as free and forced vibrations, damped and undamped vibrations, single and multi-degree of freedom systems, and modal analysis. It may also include discussions on applications of vibrations in engineering and other fields.

3. Are there any recommended textbooks or resources for undergraduate level vibrations courses?

Yes, there are many recommended textbooks and resources for undergraduate level vibrations courses. Some popular options include "Mechanical Vibrations" by Singiresu S. Rao, "Vibrations" by Balakumar Balachandran and Edward B. Magrab, and "Fundamentals of Vibrations" by Leonard Meirovitch. It is also recommended to consult with your professor or academic advisor for specific recommendations.

4. How can reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses be accessed?

Reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses can be accessed through various sources, such as university libraries, online databases, and bookstores. Some universities may also provide access to digital resources through their course management systems. Additionally, many textbooks and resources can be purchased or rented online.

5. How can reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses be used effectively?

To use reference material for undergraduate level vibrations courses effectively, it is recommended to first read and understand the material before referring to it for further clarification or practice problems. It can also be helpful to take notes, summarize key concepts, and apply the material to real-world examples. Additionally, working through practice problems and seeking help from professors or teaching assistants can aid in understanding and retaining the material.

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