Dynamic Analysis of the Axially Moving String Based on Wave Propagation

In this paper, we present an exact solution for the linear, transverse response of an axially moving string with general boundary conditions. The solution is derived in the frequency domain and interpreted in terms of wave propagation functions. The boundary effects are included by the use of compliance functions at the boundaries. The response in the time domain involves only several convolution integrals which can easily be obtained for many physical boundary conditions. A comparison of this method with an existing solution method shows that this method requires much less computation time. The transient response of the translating string with a spring or a dashpot at a boundary is presented. It is shown that complete wave absorption occurs at a boundary when that boundary has a dashpot with damping coefficient equal to the propagation speed of the reflected wave.