This structure investigates the free and forced vibrations of a rigid beam with a spring, and a simply supported beam.

Learning Outcomes

• Free and forced vibrations of a rigid beam and spring
• Free and forced vibrations of a flexible pinned-pinned (simply supported) beam
• Frequency of oscillation and varying mass
• Phase difference between displacement, its derivatives and measured acceleration
• Damped free and forced oscillations and damping coefficient
• Phase relationship between the applied force and beam position for different damping values

A bench-top unit to demonstrate free and forced vibrations of two mass-beam systems:

1. A ‘rigid’ beam with a pivot at one end and a spring at the other – the spring provides elasticity.
2. A ‘flexible’ pinned-pinned beam with a pivot at one end and a roller pivot at the other – the beam itself provides the elasticity.