Stochastic Higher-order Finite Element Model for the Free Vibration of a Continuous Beam resting on Elastic Support with Uncertain Elastic Modulus

Abstract

This paper deals with a continuous beam resting on elastic support with elastic modulus derived from a random process. Governing equations of the stochastic higher-order finite element method of the free vibration of the continuous beam were derived from Hamilton's principle. The random process of elastic modulus was discretized by averaging random variables in each element. A solution for the stochastic eigenvalue problem for the free vibration of the continuous beam was obtained by using the perturbation technique, in conjunction with the finite element method. Spectral representation was used to generate a random process and employ the Monte Carlo simulation. A good agreement was obtained between the results of the first-order perturbation technique and the Monte Carlo simulation.