MAE 4770

Structural Dynamics and Vibration Analysis

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

Dynamic loads can break bridges and airplane wings even when the forces are deemed small and safe by static analysis. How can this be? To answer this question, we will explore powerful analytical and computational tools to predict the dynamic responses of mechanical and structural systems.

Prerequisites MAE 3260.

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025SP, 2024SP, 2023SP, 2022SP

Learning Outcomes

• Derive equations of motion for complex continuum and multi-degree-of-freedom systems using Lagrangian mechanics and variational principles.
• Model the response of flexible structures to dynamic loads using principles of mode superposition and finite element methods.
• Predict when a dynamic load will excite dangerously large vibrations through resonance and make design choices to mitigate these effects.
• Topics include Langrangian dynamics of N-degree-of-freedom systems, linearization, variational principles for continuum systems, modal analysis, forced response analysis, Rayleigh-Ritz approximation, introduction to finite element analysis, and numerical simulation.

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