On the rotational motion of a solid carrying a viscoelastic disc in a central field of force (Q1089151)

The motion of a mechanical system consisting of a symmetrical solid and a round plate (disc) located in the equatorial plane of the ellipsoid of inertial of the solid is considered. It is assumed that the centre of mass of the system moves in a circular orbit in a Newtonian field of force. The disc flexural deformation, accompanied by the dissipation of energy, are the cause of the development of rotational motion in the system. Approximate equations that define this development are obtained, using the method of motion separation and the method of averaging. The averaged equations that define the evolution in Andoyer variables are similar to the equations that describe the evolution of motions of a satellite with flexible viscoelastic rods located along the axis of symmetry of the satellite.