Analog Computer Analysis of Static Beams

Solutions to two beams on elastic foundation problems are obtained by use of a repetitive analog computer. The stiffness is non-linear in the first case and varies with the length coordinate of the beam in the other. The results are compared with an approximate solution made by the Galerkin method. The solutions obtained on the analog computer provide an accuracy which compares favorably with typical numerical approximation methods. In some cases it is seen to be superior to the approximation methods. Analog computer solutions are faster and more easily displayed than on the typical digital computer, and the parameters are more easily varied. It also provides insight into the problem and can be useful in further study.