Vibration of beams and plate strips with three-dimensional flexibility

Studies making use of higher vibration modes and frequencies have indicated a need for a more accurate beam theory. Equations of motion are developed here that give a more accurate representation of the dynamic behavior of a beam than conventional beam theory. Results are obtained using these equations for the natural vibrations of simply-supported aluminum beams of rectangular cross-sections. These results are compared to results from conventional beam theory, and they are examined to identify where various effects are important.