ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses interpolation functions for a strip, which is chossen based on the separation of variable approach is the most crucial part of the analysis, and great care must be exercised at such a stage. Recently developed spline and computed shape function strips have allowed the replacement of the series component by polynomials. The polynomial component is governed by the shape of the cross-section together with the nodal arrangement within the cross-section, and the series part is determined by the end conditions. Depending on the boundary conditions as well as the nature of the problems, different series have been sought. Some of the choices are listed as follows vibration eigenfunctions, buckling eigenfunctions, exponential functions and decaying power series. The existence of so many functions should in no way be interpreted as a need for a matching number of computer subroutines.
