Extended statistical linearization approach for estimating non-stationary response statistics of systems comprising fractional derivative elements

An efficient technique to analyze non-stationary nonlinear random vibrations of dynamic systems endowed with a fractional derivative term is presented. The technique itself represents an extension of the concept of statistical linearization to this kind of systems, and it is applicable for both analytic and hysteretic system nonlinearities. The technique first resorts to harmonic balancing in deriving response-amplitude dependent equivalent damping and stiffness. This enables representation of the fractional derivative term as a linear combination of the system response displacement and velocity with amplitude dependent coefficients. Then, the expected values of these parameters are considered in proceeding to formulate a statistical linearization solution scheme. In this context, the solution procedure is completed by integrating in time the covariance Lyapunov equation associated with the derived equivalent linear system. The reliability of the proposed technique is tested by a series of germane Monte Carlo studies. This juxtaposition is also used to elucidate salient features of the technique, by varying the order of the fractional derivative term, and of the degree of the nonlinearity in the system. It also points out the versatility of the technique in determining the non-stationary values of auto-correlation and cross-correlations response parameters involving even the fractional derivative term.