ABSTRACT
The effect of imperfections and uncertainties on the buckling performnance of a structure has been studied extensively. Here the effect of uncertainties on the vibration performance is considered, with an emphasis on relatively high frequency vibration, as experienced by automotive or aerospace structures. The main physical features of the response are discussed, and then methods of predicting the response statistics are described. Statistical energy analysis is considered in some detail, and it is shown how this method can be used to predict the mean and variance of the response. A mass loaded plate is taken as an example and a comparison is made with experimental results. Good agreement between theory and experiment is demonstrated.
