Nonlinear modal analysis of frames by the incremental harmonic-balance method

Abstract

A modal incremental harmonic-balance method for the steady-state vibration of geometrically nonhnear frames by finite-element analysis is introduced. The nonlinearity is in the coupling of the axial and flexural deformations through the induced axial force along the element. Free and forced vibrations for damped or undamped systems are studied. It is shown that the method allows accurate response curves to be constructed with minimum effort.