Numerical Methods in Engineering

Three-dimensional surface meshes are the most common discrete representation of the exterior of a virtual shape. Extracting relevant geometric or topological features from them can simplify the way objects are looked at, help with their recognition, and facilitate description and categorization according to specific criteria. This book adopts the point of view of discrete mathematics, the aim of which is to propose discrete counterparts to concepts mathematically defined in continuous terms. It explains how standard geometric and topological notions of surfaces can be calculated and computed on a 3D surface mesh, as well as their use for shape analysis. Several applications are also detailed, demonstrating that each of them requires specific adjustments to fit with generic approaches. The book is intended not only for students, researchers and engineers in computer science and shape analysis, but also numerical geologists, anthropologists, biologists and other scientists looking for practical solutions to their shape analysis, understanding or recognition problems.

Numerical simulation is a technique of major importance in various technical and scientific fields. Whilst engineering curricula now include training courses dedicated to it, numerical simulation is still not well-known in some economic sectors, and even less so among the general public. Simulation involves the mathematical modeling of the real world, coupled with the computing power offered by modern technology. Designed to perform virtual experiments, digital simulation can be considered as an "art of prediction". Embellished with a rich iconography and based on the testimony of researchers and engineers, this book shines a light on this little-known art. It is the second of two volumes and gives examples of the uses of numerical simulation in various scientific and technical fields: agriculture, industry, Earth and universe sciences, meteorology and climate studies, energy, biomechanics and human and social sciences.

This book pursues optimal design from the perspective of mechanical properties and resistance to failure caused by cracks and fatigue. The book abandons the scale separation hypothesis and takes up phase-field modeling, which is at the cutting edge of research and is of high industrial and practical relevance. Part 1 starts by testing the limits of the homogenization-based approach when the size of the representative volume element is non-negligible compared to the structure. The book then introduces a non-local homogenization scheme to take into account the strain gradient effects. Using a phase field method, Part 2 offers three significant contributions concerning optimal placement of the inclusion phases. Respectively, these contributions take into account fractures in quasi-brittle materials, interface cracks and periodic composites. The topology optimization proposed has significantly increased the fracture resistance of the composites studied.

Reliable scheduling in cutting conditions is very important in machining processes, and this requires thorough understanding of the physical behaviors of the machining process, which cannot be achieved without understanding the underlying mechanism of the processes. The book describes the mechanics and dynamics together with the clamping principles in milling processes and can be used as a guideline for graduate students and research engineers who wish to be effective manufacture engineers and researchers. Many books have focused on common principles, which are suitable for general machining processes, e.g., milling, turning and drilling, etc. This book specifically aims at exploring the mechanics and dynamics of milling processes. Original theoretical derivations and new observations on static cutting force models, dynamic stability models and clamping principles associated with milling processes are classified and detailed. The book is indented as a text for graduate students and machining engineers who wish to intensively learn milling mechanism and machine tool vibration.