Mode localization phenomena in large space structures

The possibility of localization or confinement of vibratory modes in large space structures is investigated theoretically and numerically. These structures belong to a class of periodic structures that have recently been shown to be sensitive to periodicity-b reaking disorder or imperfections . When localization occurs, the modal amplitude of a global mode becomes confined to a local region of the structure, with serious implications for the control problem. The results of this study indicate that mode localization is most likely to occur in structures consisting of a large number of weakly coupled substructures. Certain large space structures with high modal densities fall in this category, and it is therefore important to include the effect of structural imperfections and disorder when designing control systems for shape or directional control of such structures. [ / ] K, Kh , Kw,Ku [K] [k] [M] [ m ] m n N p qi qt t u, v, w uf 8fj e 6