Abstract
The paper describes the vibration and the stability of nonuniform tapered beams resting on two-layered elastic foundations. The two-layered elastic foundations are constructed by discributed Winkler springs and shearing layers as ofen used in oil models. Governing equations are derived from energy experssions using Hamilton's Principle. The associated eigenvalue problems are solved to obtain the free vibration frequencies or the buckling loads. Numerical results for the vibration and the stability of beams under an axial force are presented and compared with other available solutions. Finally, vibration frequencies and critical forces are investigated for various thickness ratios, shear foundation parameters, Winkler foundation parameters, and boundary conditions of tapered beams.