On applications of generalized functions to the analysis of Euler-Bernoulli beam-columns with jump discontinuities

In this article some applications of the distribution theory of Schwarz to the analysis of beam-columns with various jump discontinuities are offered. The governing differential equation of an Euler-Bernoulli beam-column with jump discontinuities in flexural stiffness, displacement, and rotation, and under an axial force at the point of discontinuities, is obtained in the space of generalized functions. The auxiliary beam-column method is introduced. Using this method, instead of solving the differential equation of the beam-column in the space of generalized functions, another differential equation can be solved in the space of classical functions. Some examples of beam-columns and columns with various jump discontinuities are solved. Deflections of beam-columns and buckling loads for columns with jump discontinuities are calculated using the Laplace transform method in the space of generalized functions. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.