An idealized mathematical model of a linear elastic plate in which each element of the plate has an infinitesimal quantity of stored angular momentum, is presented. This continuous distribution of angular momentum is termed gyricity. By distributing a large number of gyroscopes across an elastic structure, it becomes possible to control the magnitude and/or direction of the momentum distribution. The modelling complexity becomes incalculable, however, considering that, a large space structure may utilize thousands of momentum wheels for this purpose. Nonetheless analysis is facilitated by introducing the concept of a continuous gyricity distribution. In essence, it is assumed that every infinitesimal element of matter in the body houses its own momentum wheel. By doing this, it is possible to treat gyricity, or stored angular momentum per unit volume, as a time-varying field quantity, in a similar sense to the treatment given to the time-invariant property of mass density, for example. This thesis mainly deals with the theoretical development for an elastic structure subject to continuous; time-varying gyricity, fields. The governing equations of motion are derived when the system is subject to no external forces. Approximate solutions are obtained through the Method of Undetermined Parameters for various trajectories of gyricity under a given set of boundary and initial conditions. Formulation of the governing equation of motion for a gyroelastic thin plate and Ritz model of the plate behaviour for some simple gyricity distributions are the main contribution.
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