Computational Methods for Optimizing Manufacturing Technology

The Navier-Stokes equations were firmly established in the 19th Century as the system of nonlinear partial differential equations which describe the motion of most commonly occurring fluids in air and water, and since that time exact solutions have been sought by scientists. Collectively these solutions allow a clear insight into the behavior of fluids, providing a vehicle for novel mathematical methods and a useful check for computations in fluid dynamics, a field in which theoretical research is now dominated by computational methods. This 2006 book draws together exact solutions from widely differing sources and presents them in a coherent manner, in part by classifying solutions via their temporal and geometric constraints. It will prove to be a valuable resource to all who have an interest in the subject of fluid mechanics, and in particular to those who are learning or teaching the subject at the senior undergraduate and graduate levels.

This substantial volume has two principal objectives. First it provides an overview of the statistical foundations of Simulation-based inference. This includes the summary and synthesis of the many concepts and results extant in the theoretical literature, the different classes of problems and estimators, the asymptotic properties of these estimators, as well as descriptions of the different simulators in use. Second, the volume provides empirical and operational examples of SBI methods. Often what is missing, even in existing applied papers, are operational issues. Which simulator works best for which problem and why? This volume will explicitly address the important numerical and computational issues in SBI which are not covered comprehensively in the existing literature. Examples of such issues are: comparisons with existing tractable methods, number of replications needed for robust results, choice of instruments, simulation noise and bias as well as efficiency loss in practice.

Understand the fundamental principles and applications of ambient backscatter technology with this authoritative review. Covering both theory and practical engineering, leading researchers describe and explain hardware design, network design, and signal processing, and discuss architectures, protocols, communication methods, open research issues, emerging applications, and advanced system models with innovative solutions. This is an essential tool for graduate students, researchers, engineers, developers, and entrepreneurs.

Written using clear and accessible language, this text provides detailed coverage of the core mathematical concepts underpinning signal processing. All the core areas of mathematics are covered, including generalized inverses, singular value decomposition, function representation, and optimization, with detailed explanations of how basic concepts in these areas underpin the methods used to perform signal processing tasks. A particular emphasis is placed on the practical applications of signal processing, with numerous in-text practice questions and real-world examples illustrating key concepts, and MATLAB programs with accompanying graphical representations providing all the necessary computational background. This is an ideal text for graduate students taking courses in signal processing and mathematical methods, or those who want to establish a firm foundation in these areas before progressing to more advanced study.

Social media is an invaluable source of time-critical information during a crisis. However, emergency response and humanitarian relief organizations that would like to use this information struggle with an avalanche of social media messages that exceeds the human capacity to process. Emergency managers, decision makers, and affected communities can make sense of social media through a combination of machine computation and human compassion - expressed by thousands of digital volunteers who publish, process, and summarize potentially life-saving information. This book brings together computational methods from many disciplines: natural language processing, semantic technologies, data mining, machine learning, network analysis, human-computer interaction, and information visualization, focusing on methods that are commonly used for processing social media messages under time-critical constraints, and offering more than 500 references to in-depth information.

Stylistics has become the most common name for a discipline which at various times has been termed 'literary linguistics', 'rhetoric', 'poetics', 'literary philology' and 'close textual reading'. This Handbook is the definitive account of the field, drawing on linguistics and related subject areas such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, educational pedagogy, computational methods, literary criticism and critical theory. Placing stylistics in its intellectual and international context, each chapter includes a detailed illustrative example and case study of stylistic practice, with arguments and methods open to examination, replication and constructive critical discussion. As an accessible guide to the theory and practice of stylistics, it will equip the reader with a clear understanding of the ethos and principles of the discipline, as well as with the capacity and confidence to engage in stylistic analysis.

Measurement shapes scientific theories, characterises improvements in manufacturing processes and promotes efficient commerce. In concert with measurement is uncertainty, and students in science and engineering need to identify and quantify uncertainties in the measurements they make. This book introduces measurement and uncertainty to second and third year students of science and engineering. Its approach relies on the internationally recognised and recommended guidelines for calculating and expressing uncertainty (known by the acronym GUM). The statistics underpinning the methods are considered and worked examples and exercises are spread throughout the text. Detailed case studies based on typical undergraduate experiments are included to reinforce the principles described in the book. This guide is also useful to professionals in industry who are expected to know the contemporary methods in this increasingly important area. Additional online resources are available to support the bo

The most comprehensive overview of signal detection available. This is a thorough, up-to-date introduction to optimizing detection algorithms for implementation on digital computers. It focuses extensively on real-world signal processing applications, including state-of-the-art speech and communications technology as well as traditional sonar/radar systems. Start with a quick review of the fundamental issues associated with mathematical detection, as well as the most important probability density functions and their properties. Next, review Gaussian, Chi-Squared, F, Rayleigh, and Rician PDFs, quadratic forms of Gaussian random variables, asymptotic Gaussian PDFs, and Monte Carlo Performance Evaluations. Three chapters introduce the basics of detection based on simple hypothesis testing, including the Neyman-Pearson Theorem, handling irrelevant data, Bayes Risk, multiple hypothesis testing, and both deterministic and random signals. The author then presents exceptionally detailed covera

This comprehensive text provides a modern and technically precise exposition of the fundamental theory and applications of temporal logics in computer science. Part I presents the basics of discrete transition systems, including constructions and behavioural equivalences. Part II examines the most important temporal logics for transition systems and Part III looks at their expressiveness and complexity. Finally, Part IV describes the main computational methods and decision procedures for model checking and model building - based on tableaux, automata and games - and discusses their relationships. The book contains a wealth of examples and exercises, as well as an extensive annotated bibliography. Thus, the book is not only a solid professional reference for researchers in the field but also a comprehensive graduate textbook that can be used for self-study as well as for teaching courses.

Would you change your genes if you could? As we confront the 'industrial revolution of the genome', the recent discoveries of Crispr-Cas9 technologies are offering, for the first time, cheap and effective methods for editing the human genome. This opens up startling new opportunities as well as significant ethical uncertainty. Tracing events across a fifty-year period, from the first gene splicing techniques to the present day, this is the story of gene editing - the science, the impact and the potential. Kozubek weaves together the fascinating stories of many of the scientists involved in the development of gene editing technology. Along the way, he demystifies how the technology really works and provides vivid and thought-provoking reflections on the continuing ethical debate. This updated paperback edition contains all the very latest on the patent battle over Crisp and the applications of Crispr technology in agriculture and medicine.

This book presents an overview of the computational framework in which calculations of relativistic hydrodynamics have been developed. It summarizes the jargon and methods used in the field, and provides illustrative applications to real physical systems. The authors explain how to break down the complexities of Einstein's equations and fluid dynamics, stressing the viability of the Euler–Lagrange approach to astrophysical problems. The book contains techniques and algorithms enabling one to build computer simulations of relativistic fluid problems for various astrophysical systems in one, two and three dimensions. It also shows the reader how to test relativistic hydrodynamics codes. Suitable for graduate courses on astrophysical hydrodynamics and relativistic astrophysics, this book also provides a valuable reference for researchers already working in the field.

Mechanisms are fundamental components of machines. They are used to transmit forces and moments and to manipulate objects in industrial machinery, robots, automobiles, aircraft, mechatronics devices and biomechanical systems. A knowledge of the kinematic and dynamic properties of mechanisms is essential for their design and control. This book describes methods and algorithms for the analysis of kinematic systems. Beginning with basic concepts, the book then discusses a variety of problem-solving approaches and computational techniques. Its distinctive feature is its focus on the contour equation as a powerful, computationally efficient tool that will help the reader to design complex spatial mechanisms. This handy text will be useful for senior or graduate students, researchers and practising engineers working in robotics, vehicle dynamics, mechatronics and machine design.

This book presents an overview of the computational framework in which calculations of relativistic hydrodynamics have been developed. It summarizes the jargon and methods used in the field, and provides illustrative applications to real physical systems. The authors explain how to break down the complexities of Einstein's equations and fluid dynamics, stressing the viability of the Euler–Lagrange approach to astrophysical problems. The book contains techniques and algorithms enabling one to build computer simulations of relativistic fluid problems for various astrophysical systems in one, two and three dimensions. It also shows the reader how to test relativistic hydrodynamics codes. Suitable for graduate courses on astrophysical hydrodynamics and relativistic astrophysics, this book also provides a valuable reference for researchers already working in the field.

Mechanisms are fundamental components of machines. They are used to transmit forces and moments and to manipulate objects in industrial machinery, robots, automobiles, aircraft, mechatronics devices and biomechanical systems. A knowledge of the kinematic and dynamic properties of mechanisms is essential for their design and control. This book describes methods and algorithms for the analysis of kinematic systems. Beginning with basic concepts, the book then discusses a variety of problem-solving approaches and computational techniques. Its distinctive feature is its focus on the contour equation as a powerful, computationally efficient tool that will help the reader to design complex spatial mechanisms. This handy text will be useful for senior or graduate students, researchers and practising engineers working in robotics, vehicle dynamics, mechatronics and machine design.

Plasmonic nanostructures provide new ways of manipulating the flow of light with nanostructures and nanoparticles exhibiting optical properties never before seen in the macro-world. Covering plasmonic technology from fundamental theory to real world applications, this work provides a comprehensive overview of the field. • Discusses the fundamental theory of plasmonics, enabling a deeper understanding of plasmonic technology • Details numerical methods for modeling, design and optimization of plasmonic nanostructures • Includes step-by-step design guidelines for active and passive plasmonic devices, demonstrating the implementation of real devices in the standard CMOS nanoscale electronic-photonic integrated circuit to help cut design, fabrication and characterisation time and cost • Includes real-world case studies of plasmonic devices and sensors, explaining the benefits and downsides of different nanophotonic integrated circuits and sensing platforms. Ideal for researchers, engineer

This book describes how computer programs can generate narratives and how studies of computational narrative can illuminate how humans tell stories. Combining an introduction to relevant concepts related to automatic storytelling with accessible descriptions of well-known computer programs that illustrate how such concepts are employed, the book is aimed at an interdisciplinary audience and assumes little or no background in computer science. The book introduces the most relevant techniques employed over the last 60 years for the development of computer models for narrative generation, including narrative templates, problem-solving, planning, author engagement and reflection, and statistical methods such as deep neural networks, ending with an examination of the societal implications of the development of automatic narrative generator systems.

Phase transitions typically occur in combinatorial computational problems and have important consequences, especially with the current spread of statistical relational learning as well as sequence learning methodologies. In Phase Transitions in Machine Learning the authors begin by describing in detail this phenomenon, and the extensive experimental investigation that supports its presence. They then turn their attention to the possible implications and explore appropriate methods for tackling them. Weaving together fundamental aspects of computer science, statistical physics and machine learning, the book provides sufficient mathematics and physics background to make the subject intelligible to researchers in AI and other computer science communities. Open research issues are also discussed, suggesting promising directions for future research.

This seminal text demystifies all the terminology around working with textiles today, providing definitions of processes, techniques, features, and even some historical terms that you need to know. The dictionary now includes coverage of sustainability, smart materials and biobased textiles, intelligent and 3D manufacturing, new technologies, and processes. Entries cover fibers, fabrics, laws and regulations affecting textile materials and processing, inventors of textile technology, and business and trade terms relevant to textiles. Highly illustrated with over 400 images, entries include pronunciation, derivation, definition, and uses. The ninth edition also includes online availability to vocabulary and image flashcards via STUDIO for easy on-the-go access.

This book represents the first comprehensive examination of templatic constructions - namely, linguistic structures involving unexpected linear stipulation - in both morphology and syntax from a typological perspective. It provides a state-of-the-art overview of the previous literature, develops a new typology for categorizing templatic constructions across grammatical domains, and examines their cross-linguistic variation by employing cutting-edge computational methods. It will be of interest to descriptive linguists seeking to gain a better sense of the diversity of the world's templatic constructions, theoretical linguists developing restrictive models of possible templates, and typologists interested in the attested range of patterns of linear stipulation and the application of new kinds of multivariate methods to cross-linguistic data. The new typological framework is illustrated in detail via a number of case studies involving languages of Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas,

This book represents the first comprehensive examination of templatic constructions - namely, linguistic structures involving unexpected linear stipulation - in both morphology and syntax from a typological perspective. It provides a state-of-the-art overview of the previous literature, develops a new typology for categorizing templatic constructions across grammatical domains, and examines their cross-linguistic variation by employing cutting-edge computational methods. It will be of interest to descriptive linguists seeking to gain a better sense of the diversity of the world's templatic constructions, theoretical linguists developing restrictive models of possible templates, and typologists interested in the attested range of patterns of linear stipulation and the application of new kinds of multivariate methods to cross-linguistic data. The new typological framework is illustrated in detail via a number of case studies involving languages of Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas,

The study of structural analysis and design is a central subject in civil, aeronautical and mechanical engineering. This book presents a modern and unified introduction to structural analysis, with a strong emphasis on how structures actually behave. The unifying theme is the application of energy methods, developed without the formal mathematics of the calculus of variations. The energy approach makes it possible to articulate the logical relationship between equilibrium and compatibility; emphasise the unity of structural analysis, particularly for indeterminate structures; and identify the roles of idealization and discretization in structural modelling. Thus, energy methods also serve as a prelude to the main ideas behind modern computational approaches to structural analysis and design. As an aid to upper-level undergraduate students in mastering this material, the text includes numerous worked examples, as well as homework problems.

Astronomy leads to an understanding of the history and nature of science, and attracts many young people to education in science and technology. But while in many countries astronomy is not part of the standard curriculum, many scientific and educational societies and government agencies have produced materials and educational resources in astronomy for all educational levels. This volume highlights the general strategies for effective teaching and introduces innovative points of view regarding methods of teaching and learning, particularly those using new technologies. Technology is used in astronomy both for obtaining observations and for teaching. The book also presents ideas for how astronomy can be connected to environmental issues and other topics of public interest. This valuable overview is based on papers and posters presented by many of the world's leading astronomy educators at a Special Session of the International Astronomical Union General Assembly in Prague in 2006.

This book describes and explains the methods by which three related ores and recyclables are made into high purity metals and chemicals, for materials processing. It focuses on present day processes and future developments rather than historical processes. Nickel, cobalt and platinum group metals are key elements for materials processing. They occur together in one book because they (i) map together on the periodic table (ii) occur together in many ores and (iii) are natural partners for further materials processing and materials manufacturing. They all are, for example, important catalysts - with platinum group metals being especially important for reducing car and truck emissions. Stainless steels and CoNiFe airplane engine super alloys are examples of practical usage. The product emphasises a sequential, building-block approach to the subject gained through the author's previous writings (particularly Extractive Metallurgy of Copper in four editions) and extensive experience. Du

This revised, expanded, edition covers the theory, design, geometry and manufacture of all types of gears and gear drives. This is an invaluable reference for designers, theoreticians, students, and manufacturers. This edition includes advances in gear theory, gear manufacturing, and computer simulation. Among the new topics are: 1. New geometry for modified spur and helical gears, face-gear drives, and cycloidal pumps. 2. New design approaches for one stage planetary gear trains and spiral bevel gear drives. 3. An enhanced approach for stress analysis of gear drives with FEM. 4. New methods of grinding face gear drives, generating double crowned pinions, and improved helical gear shaving. 5. Broad application of simulation of meshing and TCA. 6. New theories on the simulation of meshing for multi-body systems, detection of cases wherein the contact line on generating surfaces may have its own envelope, and detection and avoidance of singularities of generated surfaces.

This book was first published in 1970. It addresses the increasing use of digital computers for equilibrium calculations in high temperature, high pressure processes, in rocketry and in explosives technology. It surveys the numerical techniques developed over the fifteen to twenty years preceding its publication. The authors derive the equations describing equilibria in different types of system and outline the effect of variation of the parameters of the system on the equilibrium composition. They discuss critically the available methods of solution of the chemical equilibrium problem, both in the minimization and non-linear equations form, and indicate the factors that should be taken into account in selecting the optimum method of solution for a particular problem and computer. The fundamental chemical and thermodynamic analytic material was selected so as to make the book fully accessible for students of chemical engineering, explosives and technology.

This volume includes contributions by leading workers in the field given at the workshop on Numerical Relativity held in Southampton in December 1991. Numerical Relativity, or the numerical solution of astrophysical problems using powerful computers to solve Einstein's equations, has grown rapidly over the last 15 years. It is now an important route to understanding the structure of the Universe, and is the only route currently available for approaching certain important astrophysical scenarios. The Southampton meeting was notable for the first full report of the new 2+2 approach and the related null or characteristic approaches, as well as for updates on the established 3+1 approach, including both Newtonian and fully relativistic codes. The contributions range from theoretical (formalisms, existence theorems) to the computational (moving grids, multiquadrics and spectral methods).

This book describes a revolutionary methodology for enhancing technological innovation called TRIZ. The TRIZ methodology is increasingly being adopted by leading corporations around the world to enhance their competitive position. The authors explain how the TRIZ methodology harnesses creative principles extracted from thousands of successful patented inventions to help you find better, more innovative, solutions to your own design problems. You'll learn how to use TRIZ tools for conceptual development of novel technologies, products and manufacturing processes. In particular, you'll find out how to develop breakthrough, compromise-free design solutions and how to reliably identify next generation products and technologies. Whether you're trying to make a better beer can, find a new way to package microchips or reduce the number of parts in a lawnmower engine, this book can help. Written for practicing engineers, product managers, technology managers and engineering students.

This text offers a clear and refreshing exposition of the dynamics of mechanical systems from an engineering perspective. Basic concepts are thoroughly covered, then applied in a systematic manner to solve problems in mechanical systems that have recognisable applications to engineering practice. All theoretical discussions are accompanied by numerous illustrative examples, and each chapter offers a wealth of homework problems. The treatment of the kinematics of particles and rigid bodies is extensive. In this new edition, the author has revised and reorganized sections to enhance understanding of physical principles, and he has modified and added examples, as well as homework problems. The new edition also contains a thorough development of computational methods for solving the differential equations of motion for constrained systems.

This textbook describes the fundamental principles of structural phase transitions in materials in an easily understandable form, suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students. Ferroelasticity, twinning and related microstructures are described. Landau-type theories of phase transitions are introduced, together with details of elastic and specific heat anomalies, the formation of spontaneous strain, and the generation of solitary waves at temperatures close to the transition point. Many materials used in industry are crystals. These crystals often show anomalies such as sudden softening or embrittlement at certain temperatures; if controlled, such behaviour can be extremely useful for manufacturing and high technology applications. This is one of the first books to describe the recently determined physical origins of such behaviour, and provides an insight into the important thermodynamic principles and microstructural properties involved.

For courses in Introductory Statistics. Encourages statistical thinking using technology, innovative methods, and a sense of humor Inspired by the 2016 GAISE Report revision, Stats: Data and Models, 5th Edition by De Veaux/Velleman/Bock uses innovative strategies to help students think critically about data — while maintaining the book’s core concepts, coverage, and most importantly, readability.By using technology and simulations to demonstrate variability at critical points throughout the course, the authors make it easier for instructors to teach and for students to understand more complicated statistical concepts later in the course (such as the Central Limit Theorem). In addition, students get more exposure to large data sets and multivariate thinking, which better prepares them to be critical consumers of statistics in the 21st century. The 5th Edition’s approach to teaching Stats: Data and Models is revolutionary, yet it retains the book's lively tone

Innovations in music technology bring with them a new set of challenges for describing and understanding the electroacoustic repertoire. This edited collection presents a state-of-the-art overview of analysis methods for electroacoustic music in this rapidly developing field. The first part of the book explains the needs of differing electroacoustic genres and puts forward a template for the analysis of electroacoustic music. Part II discusses the latest ideas in the field and the challenges associated with new technologies, while Part III explores how analyses have harnessed the new forces of multimedia, and includes an introduction to new software programme EAnalysis, which was created by the editors as the result of an Arts and Humanities Research Council grant. The final part of the book demonstrates these new methods in action, with analyses of key electroacoustic works from a wide range of genres and sources.

Innovations in music technology bring with them a new set of challenges for describing and understanding the electroacoustic repertoire. This edited collection presents a state-of-the-art overview of analysis methods for electroacoustic music in this rapidly developing field. The first part of the book explains the needs of differing electroacoustic genres and puts forward a template for the analysis of electroacoustic music. Part II discusses the latest ideas in the field and the challenges associated with new technologies, while Part III explores how analyses have harnessed the new forces of multimedia, and includes an introduction to new software programme EAnalysis, which was created by the editors as the result of an Arts and Humanities Research Council grant. The final part of the book demonstrates these new methods in action, with analyses of key electroacoustic works from a wide range of genres and sources.

Fundamentals of Structural Geology provides a new framework for the investigation of geological structures by integrating field mapping and mechanical analysis. Assuming a basic knowledge of physical geology, introductory calculus and physics, it emphasizes the observational data, modern mapping technology, principles of continuum mechanics, and the mathematical and computational skills, necessary to quantitatively map, describe, model, and explain deformation in Earth's lithosphere. By starting from the fundamental conservation laws of mass and momentum, the constitutive laws of material behavior, and the kinematic relationships for strain and rate of deformation, the authors demonstrate the relevance of solid and fluid mechanics to structural geology. This book offers a modern quantitative approach to structural geology for advanced students and researchers in structural geology and tectonics. It is supported by a website hosting images from the book, additional colour images, studen

Among all the numerical methods in seismology, the finite-difference (FD) technique provides the best balance of accuracy and computational efficiency. This book offers a comprehensive introduction to FD and its applications to earthquake motion. Using a systematic tutorial approach, the book requires only undergraduate degree-level mathematics and provides a user-friendly explanation of the relevant theory. It explains FD schemes for solving wave equations and elastodynamic equations of motion in heterogeneous media, and provides an introduction to the rheology of viscoelastic and elastoplastic media. It also presents an advanced FD time-domain method for efficient numerical simulations of earthquake ground motion in realistic complex models of local surface sedimentary structures. Accompanied by a suite of online resources to help put the theory into practice, this is a vital resource for professionals and academic researchers using numerical seismological techniques, and graduate st

Analytic combinatorics aims to enable precise quantitative predictions of the properties of large combinatorial structures. The theory has emerged over recent decades as essential both for the analysis of algorithms and for the study of scientific models in many disciplines, including probability theory, statistical physics, computational biology, and information theory. With a careful combination of symbolic enumeration methods and complex analysis, drawing heavily on generating functions, results of sweeping generality emerge that can be applied in particular to fundamental structures such as permutations, sequences, strings, walks, paths, trees, graphs and maps. This account is the definitive treatment of the topic. The authors give full coverage of the underlying mathematics and a thorough treatment of both classical and modern applications of the theory. The text is complemented with exercises, examples, appendices and notes to aid understanding. The book can be used for an advanc

Ultrasound provides a unique diagnostic perspective in cerebrovascular disorders, with extremely high temporal resolution and excellent spatial display of extracranial arteries, brain structures and cerebral vessels. This comprehensive text covers the fundamentals of ultrasound physics, new technology, and clinical applications in all ages. It provides a firm grounding in hemodynamics and describes computational models for study of the cerebral circulation. Extracranial applications in assessing the carotid and vertebral arteries are discussed in detail, as are intracranial Doppler applications in stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, arteriovenous malformations, interventional and surgical procedures, and the detection and monitoring of cerebral microembolism. These and other topics, both clinical and technical, are presented by leading authorities in the field, with extensive illustrations, and tables are included for the standardized classification of cerebrovascular diseases based on i

This 1992 book provides a coherent and comprehensive treatment of the thermodynamics and gas dynamics of the practical Stirling cycle. Invented in 1816, the Stirling engine is the subject of worldwide research and development on account of unique qualities - silence, indifference to heat source, low level of emissions when burning conventional fuels and an ability to function in reverse as heat pump or refrigerator. The student of engineering will discover an instructure and illuminating case study revealing the interactions of basic disciplines. The researcher will find the groundwork prepared for various types of computer simulation, Those involved in the use and teaching of solution methods for unsteady gas dynamics problems will find a comprehensive treatment on nonlinear and linear wave approaches, for the Stirling machine provides an elegant example of the application of each. The book will be of use to all those involved in researching, designing or manufacturing Stirling prime

Many applications in science and engineering require a digital model of a real physical object. Advanced scanning technology has made it possible to scan such objects and generate point samples on their boundaries. This book, first published in 2007, shows how to compute a digital model from this point sample. After developing the basics of sampling theory and its connections to various geometric and topological properties, the author describes a suite of algorithms that have been designed for the reconstruction problem, including algorithms for surface reconstruction from dense samples, from samples that are not adequately dense and from noisy samples. Voronoi- and Delaunay-based techniques, implicit surface-based methods and Morse theory-based methods are covered. Scientists and engineers working in drug design, medical imaging, CAD, GIS, and many other areas will benefit from this first book on the subject.

Many applications in science and engineering require a digital model of a real physical object. Advanced scanning technology has made it possible to scan such objects and generate point samples on their boundaries. This book, first published in 2007, shows how to compute a digital model from this point sample. After developing the basics of sampling theory and its connections to various geometric and topological properties, the author describes a suite of algorithms that have been designed for the reconstruction problem, including algorithms for surface reconstruction from dense samples, from samples that are not adequately dense and from noisy samples. Voronoi- and Delaunay-based techniques, implicit surface-based methods and Morse theory-based methods are covered. Scientists and engineers working in drug design, medical imaging, CAD, GIS, and many other areas will benefit from this first book on the subject.

Recent advances in computational power are now enabling scientists to consider problems of population dynamics at an advanced level. The small bodies of our solar system, the planets around other stars, dust belts, space debris, etc., need to be understood as a a whole, with their collective dynamical evolution, stability and instability, order and chaos, aggregations and impacts. Important results on specific populations of celestial bodies, in addition to new methods of computation and analysis, have been obtained in the last few years. Scientists from 21 countries convened for the Colloquium "Dynamics of Populations of Planetary Systems", sponsored by the International Astronomical Union, in Belgrade (Serbia and Monte Negro). This proceedings volume reviews current understanding of the field, and is a valuable resource for professional astronomers and planetary scientists.