Harmonic balance: simple and accurate estimation of nonlinear oscillator parameters

Abstract

Harmonic balance (HB) analysis is applied to a number of nonlinear oscillator equations of motion; surprisingly accurate estimations of periodic solutions are obtained when the oscillator spectrum is narrowband, as here. Comparison with other approximation techniques shows its efficacy. HB is a useful tool for researchers, yet requires no advanced mathematics or specialist knowledge; as such it is appropriate for undergraduate teaching.