Frequency and Harmonic SolidWorks Simulations

We walk through frequency and harmonic simulations in SolidWorks 2026. An air-conditioning unit weighing 1200lbf is mounted at the middle of two parallel simply-supported I-beams as shown. The motor of the AC unit runs at a frequency ranging between 12 to 18Hz generating a vertical out-of-balance force of 60lbf. The clear span of the beams is 8 ft. The second moment of cross-sectional area of each beam is I = 10 in^4. Assume viscous damping ζ = 1% in the system and all materials are alloy steel. Perform SW Simulation to determine a) the first 5 natural frequencies and the amplitudes and locations of [them] b) the maximum steady-state deflection, and c) the maximum steady-state acceleration