A transfer matrix method for calculating the elastic behaviour of annular plates

Abstract

This work arose from a design exercise which required a less constrained treatment of annular plates than is available from standard formulae. The transfer matrix method gives freedom for the thickness of the plate, and the pressure across it, to be any functions of radius, and for the plate to be supported at any radius, or at any radii, in whatever manner is relevant. Natural frequencies and mode shapes may be calculated by including the inertia terms in the matrices. Its limitation is that only axially symmetrical deformation and modes are covered by the method.