Abstract

Linear and nonlinear vibrations in plates, gongs, and steelpans
Thomas D. Rossing

The small to medium amplitude vibrations of plates, gongs, and steelpans can be described in terms of normal modes of vibration. By using various techniques for modal analysis, the modal frequencies, modal shapes, and damping can be determined. Optical techniques generally give the highest spatial resolution. At large amplitude, interesting nonlinear effects are often observed. We review some vibrational properties of plates, gongs,Caribbean steelpans, and the HANG, a hand-played steel instrument. Both linear and nonlinear behavior will be described.