Abstract
An elementary theory for non-linear vibrations of viscoelastic sandwich beams is presented. The harmonic balance method is coupled with a one mode Galerkin analysis. This results in a scalar complex frequency–response relationship. So the non-linear free vibration response is governed by only two complex numbers. This permits one to recover first the concept of linear loss factor, second a parabolic approximation of the backbone curve that accounts for the amplitude dependence of the frequency. A new amplitude–loss factor relationship is also established in this way. The forced vibration analysis leads to resonance curves that are classical within non-linear vibration theory. They are extended here to any viscoelastic constitutive behaviour.
This elementary approach could be extended to a large class of structures and in a finite element framework. The amplitude equation is obtained in closed form for a class of sandwich beams. The effects of the boundary conditions and of the temperature on the response are discussed.