A digital simulation of the vibration of a two‐mass two‐spring system

In this study, we developed a computer program to simulate the vibration of a two‐mass two‐spring system by using Visual BASIC. Users can enter data for the two‐mass two‐spring system. The software will derive the eigenvalue problem from the input data. Then the software solves the eigenvalue problem and illustrates the results numerically and graphically on the screen. In addition, the program uses animation to demonstrate the motions of the two masses. The displacements, velocities, and accelerations of the two bodies can be shown if the corresponding checkboxes are selected. This program can be used in teaching courses, such as Linear Algebra, Advanced Engineering Mathematics, Vibrations, and Dynamics. Use of the software may help students to understand the applications of eigenvalue problems and related topics such as modes of vibration, natural frequencies, and systems of differential equations. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 563–573, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com; DOI 10.1002/cae.20241