The semi-infinite plate on a Winkler base, free along the edge, and subjected to a vertical force

Abstract

At first, a brief review of published analyzes for related problems is presented. Then a new solution is derived for the case when plate is subjected to a concentrated force at any point on the plate. As in the reviewed papers, the analysis is based on the linear bending theory of thin plates. The solution procedure utilizes the closed-form Green's function for the infinite plate, in conjunction with the Fourier integral method. The advantage of the present approach is that the characteristic response of the plate near the load is represented by the closed-form Green's function which contains the proper singularity, whereas the other terms represent the correction due to the free edge. To study the mechanical features of the problem under consideration, deflection profiles and bending moment distributions were calculated and are presented as graphs.