Finite Beams on Elastic Foundations

The differential equation of beams of finite length, resting on a Winkler foundation is solved in terms of the initial conditions, i.e., the conditions at one of the ends of the beam. With the solution in this form, which contains the initial conditions as the constants of integration, it is then possible to write merely by inspection the equation of the elastic line. The solution of the resulting boundary value problem is simplified through the use of special functions, which possess interesting properties, and a table of values of these special functions.