 Parabolic obstacle under a taut string

For a string of positive tension $T$ with fixed endpoints $w(\pm 1)=0$, zero transverse loading and obstacle $f=h-x^2$, $0\le h\le 1$, equilibrium minimizes $T{\int }_{-1}^1(w^{\prime }{)}^2/2dx$ among functions above $f$. On a free interval $w^{\prime \prime }=0$, while in contact $w=f$. Smooth tangency of the right line through $(1,0)$ to the parabola at $x=s$ requires $h-s^2=2s(1-s)$, yielding the displayed root in $[0,1]$.

The two pieces join with equal value and slope. On the free portions $w-f=(|x|-s{)}^2\ge 0$; in contact $-T{w}^{\prime \prime }=2T$ is the nonnegative reaction. These facts verify the complementarity conditions. The associated variational inequality and the exact energy difference prove global minimality; strict convexity with fixed endpoints proves uniqueness. At $h=0$ contact reduces to one point; at $h=1$ it fills the whole interval.