Innovative Computing Methods and Their Applications to Engineering Problems

There is increasing need to solve large-scale complex optimization problems in a wide variety of science and engineering applications, including designing telecommunication networks for multimedia tr

The papers in this volume explore various issues relating to theories of rational choice and social welfare and their applications. The topics include resource allocation problems, population ethics,

Superalloys are unique high-temperature materials used in gas turbine engines, which display excellent resistance to mechanical and chemical degradation. This book presents the underlying metallurgical principles which have guided their development and practical aspects of component design and fabrication from an engineering standpoint. The topics of alloy design, process development, component engineering, lifetime estimation and materials behaviour are described, with emphasis on critical components such as turbine blading and discs. The first introductory text on this class of materials, it will provide a strong grounding for those studying physical metallurgy at the advanced level, as well as practising engineers. Included at the end of each chapter are exercises designed to test the reader's understanding of the underlying principles presented. Solutions for instructors and additional resources are available at www.cambridge.org/9780521859042.

This book is devoted to the study of scalar and asymptotic scalar derivatives and their applications to some problems in nonlinear analysis, Riemannian geometry and applied mathematics. The theoretic

Electronic composites, whose properties can be controlled by thermal or electromagnetic means, play an important role in micro- and nano-electromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS) such as sensors, actuators, filters and switches. This 2005 book describes the processing, simulation, and applications of electronic composites. The book begins with a review of the mechanical, thermal, electromagnetic and coupling behaviour of electronic composites. Their major applications are then discussed. Key simulation models are described in detail and illustrated by reference to real examples. The book closes with a discussion of electronic composite processing, including MEMS design and packaging. The book contains a comprehensive list of references and is aimed at graduate students of electrical engineering and materials science. It will also be a useful reference for researchers and engineers in the MEMS industry.

This book examines the theory of boundary value problems for elliptic systems of partial differential equations, a theory which has many applications in mathematics and the physical sciences. The aim is to 'algebraize' the index theory by means of pseudo-differential operators and methods in the spectral theory of matrix polynomials. This latter theory provides important tools that will enable the student to work efficiently with the principal symbols of the elliptic and boundary operators on the boundary. This book is ideal for use in graduate-level courses on partial differential equations, elliptic systems, pseudo-differential operators and matrix analysis. Since many new methods and results are introduced and used throughout the book, all the theorems are proved in detail, and the methods are well illustrated through numerous examples and exercises.

The past few years have witnessed significant developments in algebraic coding theory. This book provides an advanced treatment of the subject from an engineering perspective, covering the basic principles and their application in communications and signal processing. Emphasis is on codes defined on the line, on the plane, and on curves, with the core ideas presented using commutative algebra and computational algebraic geometry made accessible using the Fourier transform. Starting with codes defined on a line, a background framework is established upon which the later chapters concerning codes on planes, and on curves, are developed. The decoding algorithms are developed using the standard engineering approach applied to those of Reed-Solomon codes, enabling them to be evaluated against practical applications. Integrating recent developments in the field into the classical treatment of algebraic coding, this is an invaluable resource for graduate students and researchers in telecommun

This edited volume deals with the theoretical and methodological aspects, as well as various evolutionary algorithm applications to many real world problems originating from science, technology, busin

Bayesian Methods in Finance provides a detailed overview of the theory of Bayesian methods and explains their real-world applications to financial modeling. While the principles and concepts explained

This text is a modern vector-oriented treatment of classical dynamics and its application to engineering problems. Based on Ginsberg's Advanced Engineering Dynamics, 2nd edition, it develops a broad spectrum of kinematical concepts, which provide the framework for formulations of kinetics principles following the Newton-Euler and analytical approaches. This fresh treatment features many expanded and new derivations, with an emphasis on both breadth and depth and a focus on making the subject accessible to individuals from a broad range of backgrounds. Numerous examples implement a consistent pedagogical structure. Many new homework problems were added and their variety increased.

The focused ion beam (FIB) system is an important tool for understanding and manipulating the structure of materials at the nanoscale. Combining this system with an electron beam creates a DualBeam - a single system that can function as an imaging, analytical and sample modification tool. Presenting the principles, capabilities, challenges and applications of the FIB technique, this edited volume, first published in 2007, comprehensively covers the ion beam technology including the DualBeam. The basic principles of ion beam and two-beam systems, their interaction with materials, etching and deposition are all covered, as well as in situ materials characterization, sample preparation, three-dimensional reconstruction and applications in biomaterials and nanotechnology. With nanostructured materials becoming increasingly important in micromechanical, electronic and magnetic devices, this self-contained review of the range of ion beam methods, their advantages, and when best to implement

Do you want easy access to the latest methods in scientific computing? This greatly expanded third edition of Numerical Recipes has it, with wider coverage than ever before, many new, expanded and updated sections, and two completely new chapters. The executable C++ code, now printed in colour for easy reading, adopts an object-oriented style particularly suited to scientific applications. Co-authored by four leading scientists from academia and industry, Numerical Recipes starts with basic mathematics and computer science and proceeds to complete, working routines. The whole book is presented in the informal, easy-to-read style that made earlier editions so popular. Highlights of the new material include: a new chapter on classification and inference, Gaussian mixture models, HMMs, hierarchical clustering, and SVMs; a new chapter on computational geometry, covering KD trees, quad- and octrees, Delaunay triangulation, and algorithms for lines, polygons, triangles, and spheres; interior

Decision analysis is a prescriptive theory that aids individuals or groups confronted with complex problems in a wide variety of contexts. By framing issues, identifying risks, eliciting stakeholder preferences, and suggesting alternative approaches, decision analysts can offer workable solutions in domains such as the environment, health and medicine, engineering and operations research, and public policy. This book is a mixture of historical and forward-looking essays on key topics in decision analysis. Part I covers the history and foundations of decision analysis. Part II discusses structuring decision problems, including the development of objectives and their attributes, and influence diagrams. Part III discusses probabilities and their elicitation and Bayes nets. Part IV discusses additive and multiplicative utilities, risk preferences, and 'option pricing' methods. Part V discusses risk analysis. Part VI puts decision analysis in a behavioral and organizational context. Part VI

Decision analysis is a prescriptive theory that aids individuals or groups confronted with complex problems in a wide variety of contexts. By framing issues, identifying risks, eliciting stakeholder preferences, and suggesting alternative approaches, decision analysts can offer workable solutions in domains such as the environment, health and medicine, engineering and operations research, and public policy. This book is a mixture of historical and forward-looking essays on key topics in decision analysis. Part I covers the history and foundations of decision analysis. Part II discusses structuring decision problems, including the development of objectives and their attributes, and influence diagrams. Part III discusses probabilities and their elicitation and Bayes nets. Part IV discusses additive and multiplicative utilities, risk preferences, and 'option pricing' methods. Part V discusses risk analysis. Part VI puts decision analysis in a behavioral and organizational context. Part VI

Computing and database management has shifted from cottage industry-style methods — the small independent researcher keeping records for a particular project — to state-of-the-art file storage systems

This is the first book that reviews problems in different fluid mechanics disciplines that led to the concept of canopy, or penetrable roughness. Despite their diversity, many flows may be theoretical

The understanding of amine chemistry is of paramount importance to numerous chemical industries, as well as to academic research. This book provides an authoritative account of the properties and applications of amines with respect to the characteristics of bonded substituents and the nature of their surrounding chemical and physical environments. The synthesis of alkyl, aryl and heterocyclic amines and inorganic amines with a review of their typical reactions is comprehensively treated, whilst practical synthetic and analytical methods for laboratory preparation and detection are provided. The importance of amine chemistry from the nineteenth century to the modern day, with a brief history of the development of ammonia synthesis, is included. This book is an invaluable reference for undergraduates, postgraduates and chemical researchers working in industry.

The updated 2nd edition of this book presents a variety of image analysis applications, reviews their precise mathematics and shows how to discretize them. For the mathematical community, the book sho

This 2006 guide to the contemporary toolbox of methods for data analysis will serve graduate students and researchers across the biological sciences. Modern computational tools, such as Maximum Likelihood, Monte Carlo and Bayesian methods, mean that data analysis no longer depends on elaborate assumptions designed to make analytical approaches tractable. These new 'computer-intensive' methods are currently not consistently available in statistical software packages and often require more detailed instructions. The purpose of this book therefore is to introduce some of the most common of these methods by providing a relatively simple description of the techniques. Examples of their application are provided throughout, using real data taken from a wide range of biological research. A series of software instructions for the statistical software package S-PLUS are provided along with problems and solutions for each chapter.

This 2006 guide to the contemporary toolbox of methods for data analysis will serve graduate students and researchers across the biological sciences. Modern computational tools, such as Maximum Likelihood, Monte Carlo and Bayesian methods, mean that data analysis no longer depends on elaborate assumptions designed to make analytical approaches tractable. These new 'computer-intensive' methods are currently not consistently available in statistical software packages and often require more detailed instructions. The purpose of this book therefore is to introduce some of the most common of these methods by providing a relatively simple description of the techniques. Examples of their application are provided throughout, using real data taken from a wide range of biological research. A series of software instructions for the statistical software package S-PLUS are provided along with problems and solutions for each chapter.

This book presents a self-contained introduction to stochastic processes with emphasis on their applications in science, engineering, finance, computer science, and operations research. It provides th

Developments in sensor and processor sophistication have created a need for effective estimation and control algorithms for hybrid, nonlinear systems. This book presents an effective, flexible family of estimation algorithms that can be used in estimating or controlling a variety of nonlinear plants. Several applications are studied, including tracking a manoeuvring aircraft, automatic target recognition, and the decoding of signals transmitted across a wireless communications link. The authors begin by setting out the necessary theoretical background and then develop a practical, finite-dimensional approximation to an optimal estimator. Throughout the book, they illustrate theoretical results by simulation of control and estimation in real-world hybrid systems, drawn from a variety of engineering fields. The book will be of great interest to graduate students and researchers in electrical and computer engineering. It will also be a useful reference for practising engineers involved in

The development of a new design is often thought of as a fundamentally human, creative act. However, emerging research has demonstrated that aspects of design synthesis can be formalized. First steps in this direction were taken in the early 1960s when systematic techniques were introduced to guide engineers in producing high-quality designs. By the mid-1980s these methods had evolved from their informal (guideline-like) origins to more formal (computable) methods. In recent years, highly automated design synthesis techniques have emerged. This intriguing book reviews formal design synthesis methods. It also provides an in-depth exploration of several representative projects in formal design synthesis and examines future directions in computational design synthesis research. Written by internationally renowned experts in engineering and architectural design, it covers essential topics in engineering design, and will appeal to designers, researchers and engineering graduate students.

This 2001 book provides a detailed introduction to the principles of Doppler and polarimetric radar, focusing in particular on their use in the analysis of weather systems. The design features and operation of practical radar systems are highlighted throughout the book in order to illustrate important theoretical foundations. The authors begin by discussing background topics such as electromagnetic scattering, polarization, and wave propagation. They then deal in detail with the engineering aspects of pulsed Doppler polarimetric radar, including the relevant signal theory, spectral estimation techniques, and noise considerations. They close by examining a range of key applications in meteorology and remote sensing. The book will be of great use to graduate students of electrical engineering and atmospheric science as well as to practitioners involved in the applications of polarimetric radar systems.

This book provides a complete and clear introduction to the use of adhesives to form load-bearing joints in bridges, civil engineering and building structures. Recent advances in adhesive technology have led to a rapid growth in the use of adhesives and in many cases, the use of adhesives can prove more convenient, less expensive, stronger, and more durable than traditional methods of joining. The first part of this book addresses the crucial factors involved in the formation of a successful adhesive joint, including adhesive selection, surface preparation, joint design, fabrication and protection from the environment. The second part of the book describes the growing uses of adhesives to repair and strengthen existing structures, in addition to describing their use in new constructions and applications which are now being developed for the future. The connections between the two parts of the book are brought out wherever possible so that the links between theory and practice are empha

Electronic composites, whose properties can be controlled by thermal or electromagnetic means, play an important role in micro- and nano-electromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS) such as sensors, actuators, filters and switches. This 2005 book describes the processing, simulation, and applications of electronic composites. The book begins with a review of the mechanical, thermal, electromagnetic and coupling behaviour of electronic composites. Their major applications are then discussed. Key simulation models are described in detail and illustrated by reference to real examples. The book closes with a discussion of electronic composite processing, including MEMS design and packaging. The book contains a comprehensive list of references and is aimed at graduate students of electrical engineering and materials science. It will also be a useful reference for researchers and engineers in the MEMS industry.

Stay up-to-date with the latest innovative methods of meeting the spiritual needs of the elderly Spiritual Assessment and Intervention: Current Directions and Applications examines current state-of-th

Preconditioning techniques have emerged as an essential part of successful and efficient iterative solutions of matrices. Ke Chen's book offers a comprehensive introduction to these methods. A vast range of explicit and implicit sparse preconditioners are covered, including the conjugate gradient, multi-level and fast multi-pole methods, matrix and operator splitting, fast Fourier and wavelet transforms, incomplete LU and domain decomposition, Schur complements and approximate inverses. In addition, aspects of parallel realization using the MPI are discussed. Very much a users-guide, the book provides insight to the use of these techniques in areas such as acoustic wave scattering, image restoration and bifurcation problems in electrical power stations. Supporting MATLAB files are available from the Web to support and develop readers' understanding, and provide stimulus for further study. Pitched at graduate level, the book is intended to serve as a useful guide and reference for stude

Future advancements in MEMS, aerospace applications, information storage, biotechnology and many other fields will require extensive use of engineered surfaces and interfaces. While many surface modification processes are available today, the application of these processes, as well as an understanding of their limitations, will require a fundamental knowledge of a broad spectrum of processing and properties issues. New experimental techniques show promise in helping to advance the technology of engineered surfaces. This book covers a range of topics related to surface engineering, surface modification and surface mechanics and reflects the interactions of researchers from many fields whose goal it is to enhance performance of engineered components and devices. Topics include: the effects of coating nanostructure on hardness; new developments in super-low friction coatings; control of stresses during surface modification; modification of surfaces and coatings using ion beams and lasers;

Models and Methods in Social Network Analysis, first published in 2005, presents the most important developments in quantitative models and methods for analyzing social network data that have appeared during the 1990s. Intended as a complement to Wasserman and Faust's Social Network Analysis: Methods and Applications, it is a collection of articles by leading methodologists reviewing advances in their particular areas of network methods. Reviewed are advances in network measurement, network sampling, the analysis of centrality, positional analysis or blockmodelling, the analysis of diffusion through networks, the analysis of affiliation or 'two-mode' networks, the theory of random graphs, dependence graphs, exponential families of random graphs, the analysis of longitudinal network data, graphical techniques for exploring network data, and software for the analysis of social networks.

Models and Methods in Social Network Analysis, first published in 2005, presents the most important developments in quantitative models and methods for analyzing social network data that have appeared during the 1990s. Intended as a complement to Wasserman and Faust's Social Network Analysis: Methods and Applications, it is a collection of articles by leading methodologists reviewing advances in their particular areas of network methods. Reviewed are advances in network measurement, network sampling, the analysis of centrality, positional analysis or blockmodelling, the analysis of diffusion through networks, the analysis of affiliation or 'two-mode' networks, the theory of random graphs, dependence graphs, exponential families of random graphs, the analysis of longitudinal network data, graphical techniques for exploring network data, and software for the analysis of social networks.

There are many approaches to multimedia indexing that are limited in their scope, argue Hidderly (computing) and Rafferty (media and communication, both U. of Central England), because they are built

Collocation based on piecewise polynomial approximation represents a powerful class of methods for the numerical solution of initial-value problems for functional differential and integral equations arising in a wide spectrum of applications, including biological and physical phenomena. The present book introduces the reader to the general principles underlying these methods and then describes in detail their convergence properties when applied to ordinary differential equations, functional equations with (Volterra type) memory terms, delay equations, and differential-algebraic and integral-algebraic equations. Each chapter starts with a self-contained introduction to the relevant theory of the class of equations under consideration. Numerous exercises and examples are supplied, along with extensive historical and bibliographical notes utilising the vast annotated reference list of over 1300 items. In sum, Hermann Brunner has written a treatise that can serve as an introduction for stu

The understanding of amine chemistry is of paramount importance to numerous chemical industries, as well as to academic research. This book provides an authoritative account of the properties and applications of amines with respect to the characteristics of bonded substituents and the nature of their surrounding chemical and physical environments. The synthesis of alkyl, aryl and heterocyclic amines and inorganic amines with a review of their typical reactions is comprehensively treated, whilst practical synthetic and analytical methods for laboratory preparation and detection are provided. The importance of amine chemistry from the nineteenth century to the modern day, with a brief history of the development of ammonia synthesis, is included. This book is an invaluable reference for undergraduates, postgraduates and chemical researchers working in industry.

This 2004 volume offers a broad overview of developments in the theory and applications of state space modeling. With fourteen chapters from twenty-three contributors, it offers a unique synthesis of state space methods and unobserved component models that are important in a wide range of subjects, including economics, finance, environmental science, medicine and engineering. The book is divided into four sections: introductory papers, testing, Bayesian inference and the bootstrap, and applications. It will give those unfamiliar with state space models a flavour of the work being carried out as well as providing experts with valuable state of the art summaries of different topics. Offering a useful reference for all, this accessible volume makes a significant contribution to the literature of this discipline.

Asymmetric information (the fact that borrowers have better information than their lenders) and its theoretical and practical evidence now forms part of the basic tool kit of every financial economist. It is a phenomenon that has major implications for a number of economic and financial issues ranging from both micro and macroeconomic level - corporate debt, investment and dividend policies, the depth and duration of business cycles, the rate of long term economic growth - to the origin of financial and international crises. Asymmetric Information in Financial Markets aims to explain this concept in an accessible way, without jargon and by reducing mathematical complexity. Using elementary algebra and statistics, graphs, and convincing real-world evidence, the author explores the foundations of the problems posed by asymmetries of information in a refreshingly accessible and intuitive way.

Asymmetric information (the fact that borrowers have better information than their lenders) and its theoretical and practical evidence now forms part of the basic tool kit of every financial economist. It is a phenomenon that has major implications for a number of economic and financial issues ranging from both micro and macroeconomic level - corporate debt, investment and dividend policies, the depth and duration of business cycles, the rate of long term economic growth - to the origin of financial and international crises. Asymmetric Information in Financial Markets aims to explain this concept in an accessible way, without jargon and by reducing mathematical complexity. Using elementary algebra and statistics, graphs, and convincing real-world evidence, the author explores the foundations of the problems posed by asymmetries of information in a refreshingly accessible and intuitive way.

Here is, for the first time, a book that clearly explains and applies new level set methods to problems and applications in computer vision, graphics, and imaging. It is an essential compilat

An important problem that arises in many scientific and engineering applications is that of approximating limits of infinite sequences which in most instances converge very slowly. Thus, to approximate limits with reasonable accuracy, it is necessary to compute a large number of terms, and this is in general costly. These limits can be approximated economically and with high accuracy by applying suitable extrapolation (or convergence acceleration) methods to a small number of terms. This state-of-the art reference for mathematicians, scientists and engineers is concerned with the coherent treatment, including derivation, analysis, and applications, of the most useful scalar extrapolation methods. The methods discussed are geared toward common problems in scientific and engineering disciplines. It differs from existing books by concentrateing on the most powerful nonlinear methods, presenting in-depth treatments of them, and showing which methods are most effective for different classe

The book addresses software design issues related to methods for the analysis of construction engineering by means of modern CAD (computer-aided design) systems and provides validation for their use.