The book is devoted to intelligent design of structures as a novel kind of designing based on computational intelligence. The proposed methodology based on computational intelligence has some heuristic and learning attributes typical for natural intelligence. Computer models of the structures are built on the base of the finite element method (FEM), the boundary element method (BEM) or coupling of FEM and BEM. The short description of possible discrete models of structures using these methods is included in the Chapter 2. Various kinds of intelligent approaches using sequential, parallel, distributed, fuzzy and hybrid evolutionary, immune and particle swarm algorithms and neural computing are presented in Chapter 3. Different kinds of optimization such as shape, topology, size and material optimization for structures under static and dynamical mechanical and thermo-mechanical loadings, structures with cracks and composite structures are considered in Chapter 4. Multi-objective optimization for coupled problems is also taken into account. Several numerical examples illustrating these kinds of optimization are presented for 2-D (plane-stress or plane-strain, plates, shells) as well as 3-D structures. Chapter 5 is devoted to special problems related to solving inverse problems in which boundary conditions, defects such as voids or cracks and material characteristics, are unknown. Closing comments summarizing the book are presented in Chapter 6.

Structures that move in the course of normal use, or which have to be assembled or erected rapidly on a relatively unprepared site, offer a particular challenge to the designer. The interaction between the structure and the mechanism by which it moves is essential in these cases. The speed of assembly, what this means in terms of logistics, materials and cost, is a major factor in many such structures. Mobile and rapidly assembled structures play a major role in disaster mitigation and temporary accommodation. They are of primary importance in many military as well as civilian applications and are widely used for rescue and maintenance services. Their importance continues to grow in contemporary society where speed of response is of primary importance. Also, in many cases, their reversible deployment and potential reuse can lead to a lower economical and/or ecological impact, providing a more sustainable solution. There are common problems such as the efficient design of assembly joints, the resistance to damage of the membrane and metal cladding, crashworthiness and the limits of serviceability. Some areas of the subject are already well documented, but knowledge is fragmented and there is little design guidance available in the form of textbooks, data sheets or codes of practice. The interaction between morphology, kinematic behaviour and structural performance – typical for these structures – poses real challenges in terms of design and successful realisation. This multi-disciplinary proceedings volume contains papers presented at the fourth International Conference on Mobile, Adaptable and Rapidly Assembled Structures. Topics covered include: Rapidly erected bridges and transportable bridges; Disaster mitigation structures; Temporary structures and dwellings; Deployable systems and structural mechanisms; Tensegrity and reciprocal frames; Origami-based structures; Inflated and air-supported structures and membrane shelters; Rapidly assembled kit-of-parts systems; Leisure structures, demountable grandstands and scaffolding systems; Mobile inspection platforms; Folding and telescopic masts and gangways; Tower cranes and mobile lifting apparatus; Trackways and prefabricated paving for roads and airfields; Protective structures; Rapid repairs of structures; Structures in adverse conditions; Spacecraft structures; Construction and repair.

Since the publication of the successful first edition of the book in 2010, the field has matured and a large number of advancements have been made to the science of polymer nanotube nanocomposites (PNT) in terms of synthesis, filler surface modification, as well as properties. Moreover, a number of commercial applications have been realized. The aim of this second volume of the book is, thus, to update the information presented in the first volume as well as to incorporate the recent research and industrial developments. This edited volume brings together contributions from a variety of senior scientists in the field of polymer nanotube composites technology to shed light on the recent advances in these commercially important areas of polymer technology. The book provides the following features: Reviews the various synthesis techniques, properties and applications of the polymer nanocomposite systems. Describes the functionalization strategies for single walled nanotubes in order to achieve their nanoscale dispersion in epoxy matrices. Provides insights into the multiscale modeling of the properties of PNT. Provides perspectives on the electron microscopy characterization of PNT. Presents an overview of the different methodologies to achieve micro-patterning of PNT. Describes the recent progress on hybridization modifications of CNTs with carbon nanomaterials and their further applications in polymer nanocomposites. Provides details on the foams generates with PNT. Provides information on synthesis and properties of polycarbonate nanocomposite. Describes the advanced microscopy techniques for understanding of the polymer/nanotube composite interfaces and properties.

This book gathers the proceedings of the 15th IFToMM World Congress, which was held in Krakow, Poland, from June 30 to July 4, 2019. Having been organized every four years since 1965, the Congress represents the world’s largest scientific event on mechanism and machine science (MMS). The contributions cover an extremely diverse range of topics, including biomechanical engineering, computational kinematics, design methodologies, dynamics of machinery, multibody dynamics, gearing and transmissions, history of MMS, linkage and mechanical controls, robotics and mechatronics, micro-mechanisms, reliability of machines and mechanisms, rotor dynamics, standardization of terminology, sustainable energy systems, transportation machinery, tribology and vibration. Selected by means of a rigorous international peer-review process, they highlight numerous exciting advances and ideas that will spur novel research directions and foster new multidisciplinary collaborations.

Highlights the Progression of Meshing Technologies and Their Applications Finite Element Mesh Generation provides a concise and comprehensive guide to the application of finite element mesh generation over 2D domains, curved surfaces, and 3D space. Organised according to the geometry and dimension of the problem domains, it develops from the basic meshing algorithms to the most advanced schemes to deal with problems with specific requirements such as boundary conformity, adaptive and anisotropic elements, shape qualities, and mesh optimization. It sets out the fundamentals of popular techniques, including: Delaunay triangulation Advancing-front (ADF) approach Quadtree/Octree techniques Refinement and optimization-based strategies From the geometrical and the topological aspects and their associated operations and inter-relationships, each approach is vividly described and illustrated with examples. Beyond the algorithms, the book also explores the practice of using metric tensor and surface curvatures for generating anisotropic meshes on parametric space. It presents results from research including 3D anisotropic meshing, mesh generation over unbounded domains, meshing by means of intersection, re-meshing by Delaunay-ADF approach, mesh refinement and optimization, generation of hexahedral meshes, and large scale and parallel meshing, along with innovative unpublished meshing methods. The author provides illustrations of major meshing algorithms, pseudo codes, and programming codes in C++ or FORTRAN. Geared toward research centers, universities, and engineering companies, Finite Element Mesh Generation describes mesh generation methods and fundamental techniques, and also serves as a valuable reference for laymen and experts alike.