Response of a Stretched String Subjected to a Moving Mass

Abstract

In this paper, the dynamics of a taut horizontal string with a constant velocity moving mass including its rotary inertia, is modelled. The equation of motion is solved using Galerkin’s approach, employing appropriate comparison functions. A discontinuity or jump in the trajectory of the mass has been established when the mass is about to leave the string. The consideration of rotary inertia in the model is found to affect the spatial location of the jump in the trajectory of the moving mass.