Chapter 4 – Mode Analysis

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of mode analysis. This analysis is undertaken to obtain the resonant frequency and the vibration mode of an elastic body. There are two methods for mode analysis. One is a theoretical analysis and the other is the finite-element method (FEM). Theoretical analysis is usually used for a simple shape of an elastic body, such as a flat plate and a straight bar, but theoretical analysis cannot give the vibration mode for the complex shape of an elastic body. FEM analysis can obtain the vibration mode for it. In FEM analysis, it is very important to select a proper element type, which influences the accuracy of solution, working time for model construction, and CPU time. The chapter finally presents the mode analysis of a one-axis precision moving table using elastic hinges and a suspension for hard disc drives.