Computer-Aided Design Software for the Undamped Two-Dimensional Static and Dynamic Analysis of Beams and Rotors

The objective of this research work was to develop a design tool to analyze and design undamped beam and rotor systems in two dimensions. Systems modeled in two dimensions, such as beams with different moments of inertia, could produce varying responses in the each direction of motion. A coupling between the vertical and horizontal motions also exists in rotor systems mounted of fluid film bearings.

The computer program called 2DBEAM has been developed to model and provide analyses of such systems in two dimensions. The tool has been based on an existing design package, BEAM9, which in its present state provides the response of beams and rotors in one plane of motion. The 2DBEAM program has the capability of performing the static response, free vibration, forced dynamic response, and frequency response analyses of a system.

The Transfer Matrix Method has been used in the development of the software and an explanation of the method is included in this thesis. Mathematical problems and solutions encountered while developing 2DBEAM are also documented in this study. The code has been tested against analytical and published solutions for the types of analysis mentioned above and on coupled and uncoupled system models.