Some Recent Advances in Structural Vibration

In recent years the finite element method has been developed to the state where approximate mathematical models can be formulated for complex practical structures. These models have to represent the actual geometry and take into account the types of deformation which the structure will undergo in practice. Large versatile and efficient computer programs, which are based on the finite element method, exist for stress analysis; a general program will include the capability of determining response to dynamic loads. Research work on the finite element method continues, but new elements, which are economical, accurate and conform with existing elements for the other types of deformation and thus are worthy of inclusion in general programs, are of less frequent occurrence. Developments continue in elastic-plastic problems, which occur for large deformations, for example in earthquake engineering.