A new method for the non-linear deflection analysis of an infinite beam resting on a non-linear elastic foundation

The aim of this paper is to develop a new method of analyzing the non-linear deflection behavior of an infinite beam on a non-linear elastic foundation Non-linear beam problems have traditionally been dealt with by semi-analytical approaches that involve small perturbations or by numerical methods such as the non-linear finite element method In this paper in contrast a transformed non-linear integral equation that governs non-linear beam deflection behavior is formulated to develop a new method for non-linear solutions The proposed method requires an iteration to solve non-linear problems but is fairly simple and straightforward to apply It also converges quickly whereas traditional non-linear solution procedures are generally quite complex in application Mathematical analysis of the proposed method is performed In addition illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the validity of the method developed in the present study (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved