Natural Vibrations of Suspension Cables

Natural frequencies and modes of vibration for suspension cables are determined using a discretized system composed of a linkage of straight bars connected by frictionless pins with concentrated masses at the connection points. The governing equations are linearized which limits the applicability to small oscillations. The frequencies are determined by a generalized Holzer method coupled with the solution of the associated boundary value problem as a set of initial-value problems. The method is applied to sample numerical problems and the results are compared with the results obtained by alternate approaches. The sensitivity of the results to the nature of the discretization is studied. Also, several parameter studies are conducted to determine how the natural vibrations are altered in response to dimensional variations in the suspension cable. The results of the parameter studies are summarized in a nondimensional form.