Coupled Dynamics of an Oscillator Moving in Contact with a Periodically Supported String on Foundation

The dynamics of a single degree-of-freedom oscillator moving at a constant velocity in contact with a periodically supported taut string on a continuous foundation is studied. The main objective is to assess the effect of various parameters on the contact stability of the system. The string is assumed to be of infinite extent, and the contact is assumed to be smooth. The system is modeled using the idea of periodic continuation of sub-structure, and the dynamical variables are solved using Fourier transformation and periodicity conditions. The interaction force between the oscillator and the string is determined analytically using the compatibility condition at the contact. The role of the string support parameters and the oscillator parameters on the contact stability are clearly brought out.