Nonlinear dynamics, identification and monitoring of structures: a special issue dedicated to the memory of Francesco Benedettini

Abstract

Francesco contributed meaningful and well recognized research on nonlinear vibrations of systems and structures for nearly 30 years, masterly using the combination of advanced techniques-analytical, computational, geometrical, and experimentalneeded to carefully detect and reliably characterize a variety of nonlinear and complex dynamic phenomena possibly occurring in different engineering areas.Within this general framework, Francesco's constant interest, among many others, was devoted to the finite amplitude oscillations of elastic monodimensional systems with initial curvature (suspended cables and arches). At first, upon obtaining suitable reduced order models of the underlying partial differential equations, he developed involved highorder multiple time scale solutions of the ensuing ordinary equations, which allowed to highlight the effects of quadratic and cubic nonlinearities under different external and internal resonance conditions [1][2][3]. Yet, grasping the increasing importance of bifurcation and chaos phenomena, he was soon among the first to implement advanced numerical and geometrical techniques for the analysis, prediction and diagnosis of bifurcation events in structural dynamics [4,5], while at the same time starting a meaningful (and indeed earlier) activity of experimental nonlinear dynamics on a variety of flexible mechanical models [6][7][8][9] with the aim to crossvalidate theoretically observed phenomena via sophisticated techniques of reconstruction of their physical response [10][11][12].