Wave derivation of the energetics of driven coupled one-dimensional dynamic systems

Abstract The equation of statistical energy analysis was originally derived on the basis of modal concepts. In this paper a derivation of the equation on the basis of wave concepts is outlined. Although the new formalism is limited (at present) to the analysis of coupled one-dimensional dynamic systems, it carries details that were a priori forfeited by the previous formalism. The wave approach to SEA as developed in the paper reveals a formalism that can be naturally used for the analysis of net power and intensity in coupled dynamic systems. This aspect of the formalism is briefly discussed.