I need (well, want) to compute the height of loads (specifically, traffic signals and signs) hung from a suspension cable. Googling found a lot of catenary stuff (of which I was already somewhat aware), and some about uniform loading, but (AFAICT) nothing helpful.
I found a book with a solution of sorts (Peterson, 'Applied Engineering Mechanics'). It treats the cable as straight line segments between the load attachment points. I don't yet know whether that's an acceptable model. Even if it is, Mr. Peterson seems to insist that the coordinates (x,y) of one of the (two) end-most loads be known in advance. This is not out of the question, but it would be easier if either the total cable length, or the coordinates of the 'lowest' load, could be provided instead.
I'd appreciate any clues.
TIA, George