Analysis of Plates on a Kerr Foundation Model

Abstract

This paper studies the foundation model consisting of two spring layers interconnected by a shearing layer that was suggested by A. D. Kerr in 1964. The problem of an infinite plate strip, attached to the Kerr foundation and subjected to a uniform load and boundary forces, is solved. The results are then compared to the corresponding solutions when, the base is modeled as: (1) An elastic continuum; (2) a Winkler foundation; and (3) a Pasternak foundation. Finally, paper concludes with a study of the validity of calculating the foundation parameters explicitly from the elastic coefficients (E, v) of the base material.