Generalized Beam Element on Two‐Parameter Elastic Foundation

Abstract

A stiffness matrix and nodal load vector of a beam element on a two‐parameter elastic foundation is developed for concentrated loads, concentrated moments, and linearly distributed forces. The formulation is based on the exact solution of the differential equation governing displacements. Numerical analysis shows that the accuracy of the results using this beam element is independent of element refinement. The beam‐element also can be easily coupled with two‐dimensional frame analysis to investigate superstructure‐foundation‐soil interaction. The numerical results for a two‐dimensional frame supported on a beam on elastic foundation indicate that the second parameter not only introduces continuity to the deflection pattern of the foundation, but also affects the distribution of stresses in the elements at the column‐foundation junctions.