Abstract
A spline wavelets element method that combines the versatility of the finite element method with the accuracy of spline functions approximation and the multiresolution strategy of wavelets is proposed for frame structures vibration analysis. Instead of exploring orthogonal wavelets for specific differential operators, the spline wavelets are applied directly in finite element implementation for general differential operators. Although lacking orthogonality, the "two-scale relations" of spline functions and its corresponding wavelets from multiresolution analysis are employed to facilitate the elemental matrices manipulation by constructing two transform matrices under the constraint of finite domain of elements. In the actual formulation, the segmental approach for spline functions is provided to simplify the computation, much as conventional finite element procedure does. The assembled system matrices at any resolution level are reusable for the furthur finer resolution improvement. The local approximation and hiararchy merits make the approach competitive especially for higher mode vibration analysis. Some examples are studied as verification and demonstration of the approach. © 1995 Springer-Verlag.