Unconstrained and Constrained Mode Expansions for a Flexible Slewing Link

The linear equations of motion of a uniform flexible slewing link which were derived via Hamilton's Extended Principle are considered. These equations account for the coupling between bending and rigid modes. Unconstrained and constrained mode expansions are investigated and a quantitative comparison is made between the frequency equations and associated mode shapes. A finite dimensional model is derived using the assumed modes method and the theoretical frequencies are verified with an experimental counterbalanced aluminum beam.