Similarity Methods In Engineering Dynamics

Here is the second revised and updated edition of probably the most practical sourcebook on similarity methods and modeling techniques available. Written by leading authorities who incorporate many of the latest advances in the field, this new work maps out techniques for modeling as well as instrumentation and data analysis for an extremely wide array of problems in engineering dynamics. This practical reference uses experimental test data on various engineering problems demonstrating exactly how and why these similarity methods work. The problems involve spread of oil slicks, explosive cratering, car crashes, space vehicle heat exchange, explosive forming, and more. The spectrum of topics covered and number of examples are far greater than in other texts. Of particular importance are the dissimilar material modeling techniques which bring new versatility and freedom to the modeler in structural dynamics. The book also contains a clear, in-depth discussion of the theory underlying modeling and includes alternate methods for developing model laws. The work will undoubtedly prove invaluable to every professional involved in testing or design of dynamic experiments.

This ground-breaking reference provides an overview of key concepts in dimensional analysis, and then pushes well beyond traditional applications in fluid mechanics to demonstrate how powerful this tool can be in solving complex problems across many diverse fields. Of particular interest is the book’s coverage of dimensional analysis and self-similarity methods in nuclear and energy engineering. Numerous practical examples of dimensional problems are presented throughout, allowing readers to link the book’s theoretical explanations and step-by-step mathematical solutions to practical implementations.

Similiarity and Dimensional Methods in Mechanics, 10th Edition is an English language translation of this classic volume examining the general theory of dimensions of physical quantities, the theory of mechanical and physical similarity, and the theory of modeling. Several examples illustrate the use of the theories of similarity and dimensions for establishing fundamental mechanical regularities in aviation, explosions, and astrophysics, as well as in the hydrodynamics of ships. Other interesting areas covered include the general theory of automodel motions of continuum media, the theory of propagation of explosion waves in gases, the theory of one-dimensional nonestablished motion in gases, the fundamentals of the gas-dynamics theory of atom-bomb explosion in the atmosphere and the theory of averaging of gaseous flows in channels. Aspects of modeling include the dimensionless characteristics of compressor operation, the theories of engine thrust, and efficiency of an ideal propeller for subsonic and supersonic speeds. Similiarity and Dimensional Methods in Mechanics, 10th Edition is an ideal volume for researchers and students involved in physics and mechanics.

The principle aim of the book is to present a self-contained, modern account of similarity and symmetry methods, which are important mathematical tools for both physicists, engineers and applied mathematicians. The idea is to provide a balanced presentation of the mathematical techniques and applications of symmetry methods in mathematics, physics and engineering. That is why it includes recent developments and many examples in finding systematically conservation laws, local and nonlocal symmetries for ordinary and partial differential equations. The role of continuous symmetries in classical and quantum field theories is exposed at a technical level accessible even for non specialists. The importance of symmetries in continuum mechanics and mechanics of materials is highlighted through recent developments, such as the construction of constitutive models for various materials combining Lie symmetries with experimental data. As a whole this book is a unique collection of contributions from experts in the field, including specialists in the mathematical treatment of symmetries, researchers using symmetries from a fundamental, applied or numerical viewpoint. The book is a fascinating overview of symmetry methods aimed for graduate students in physics, mathematics and engineering, as well as researchers either willing to enter in the field or to capture recent developments and applications of symmetry methods in different scientific fields.

The present text sets itself in relief to other titles on the subject in that it addresses the means and methodologies versus a narrow specific-task oriented approach. Concepts and their developments which evolved to meet the changing needs of applications are addressed. This approach provides the reader with a general tool-box to apply to their specific needs. Two important tools are presented: dimensional analysis and the similarity analysis methods. The fundamental point of view, enabling one to sort all models, is that of information flux between a model and an original expressed by the similarity and abstraction Each chapter includes original examples and applications. In this respect, the models can be divided into several groups. The following models are dealt with separately by chapter; mathematical and physical models, physical analogues, deterministic, stochastic, and cybernetic computer models. The mathematical models are divided into asymptotic and phenomenological models. The phenomenological models, which can also be called experimental, are usually the result of an experiment on an complex object or process. The variable dimensionless quantities contain information about the real state of boundary conditions, parameter (non-linearity) changes, and other factors. With satisfactory measurement accuracy and experimental strategy, such models are highly credible and can be used, for example in control systems.