Semiclassical acoustics: what can quantum physics teach us about plate vibration?
Dr Matthew Wright1 & Dr Chris Howls2 1University of Southampton, Institute of Sound & Vibration Research 2University of Southampton, Faculty of Mathematical Studies
The periodic orbit theory of quantum physics is equally applicable to acoustical systems due to
the similarity of the Helmholtz and Schrödinger equations. The theory can also be applied
to elastic systems such as thin plates. This allows the spectrum of a modal structure to be
related to its geometry analytically which may have important implications for attempts to
design quiet structure.
