Waves caused by moving loads in an isotropic layer inhomogeneous through the thickness (Q1113722)

The authors present both theoretical and applied analyses of the problem of waves generated by loads moving with a constant subseismic velocity on the boundary of an inhomogeneous isotropic elastic layer. The problem is three-dimensional. First, general mathematical theorems concerning uniqueness of solutions as well as estimates are established. This is achieved in functional classes using the energy norm. The estimates for unique solutions concern the upper limit of the magnitude of the velocity of motion and the load vibration frequency in energy-classes of solutions. For solutions not in energy classes, principles are formulated which allow one to extract the unique solution, and far-field solutions are presented. The principles used are those of limiting absorption and energy radiation. Numerical illustration is given by an example concerning the wave propagation process in the far-field approximation for a homogeneous elastic layer subjected to a moving pulsating normal concentrated load. In this case waves propagate differently in different layer domains. The type of study exemplified in the paper is of interest in seismology and design of airport landing runways.