Objectives  In order to investigate the influence of joints in composite laminate plates on the vibration transfer characteristics of structures, this study uses power flow based on the finite element method (FEM) and a related visualization technique.

  Methods  First, a method that describes plate vibration by power flow in solid elements is proven to be feasible, then power flow transmission efficiency is introduced and a method of calculating it in a finite element model is proposed and verified by the admittance power flow method. Finally, two joint simulations of embedded joints and screw joints are obtained, as well as the power flow transmission efficiency curve and typical power flow vector diagram.

  Results  The results show significant differences in vibration transmission and power flow transmission efficiency between the two models.

  Conclusions  Power flow based on FEM can directly reflect the vibration energy transmission path of a connected structure, which can provide useful references for the design of composite structures.