Axial loading of elliptical-section bonded rubber blocks

Closed-form expressions for the small axial deflection and stress distribution of axially loaded rubber blocks of elliptical cross-section, whose ends are bonded to rigid plates, are derived using a superposition approach. The governing equations and conditions are satisfied exactly, based upon the classical theory of elasticity. Easily calculable expressions are derived for the corresponding apparent Young’s modulus and the modified apparent Young’s modulus in forms analogous to those previously given for blocks of circular cross-section.