Nonconvexity and nonsmoothness arise in a large class of engineering applica tions. In many cases of practical importance the possibilities offered by opti mization with its algorithms and heuristics can substantially improve the per formance and the range of applicability of classical computational mechanics algorithms. For a class of problems this approach is the only one that really works. The present book presents in a comprehensive way the application of opti mization algorithms and heuristics in smooth and nonsmooth mechanics. The necessity of this approach is presented to the reader through simple, represen tative examples. As things become more complex, the necessary material from convex and nonconvex optimization and from mechanics are introduced in a self-contained way. Unilateral contact and friction problems, adhesive contact and delamination problems, nonconvex elastoplasticity, fractal friction laws, frames with semi rigid connections, are among the applications which are treated in details here. Working algorithms are given for each application and are demonstrated by means of representative examples. The interested reader will find helpful references to up-to-date scientific and technical literature so that to be able to work on research or engineering topics which are not directly covered here.

Klappentext

This book presents, in a comprehensive way, the application of optimization algorithms and heuristics in engineering problems involving smooth and nonsmooth energy potentials. These problems arise in real-life modeling of civil engineering and engineering mechanics applications. Engineers will gain an insight into the theoretical justification of their methods and will find numerous extensions of the classical tools proposed for the treatment of novel applications with significant practical importance. Applied mathematicians and software developers will find a rigorous discussion of the links between applied optimization and mechanics which will enhance the interdisciplinary development of new methods and techniques. Among the large number of concrete applications are unilateral frictionless, frictional or adhesive contact problems, and problems involving complicated friction laws and interface geometries which are treated by the application of fractal geometry. Semi-rigid connections in civil engineering structures, a topic recently introduced by design specification codes, complete analysis of composites, and innovative topics on elastoplasticity, damage and optimal design are also represented in detail. Audience: The book will be of interest to researchers in mechanics, civil, mechanical and aeronautical engineers, as well as applied mathematicians. It is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in computational mechanics, focusing on nonlinear and nonsmooth applications, and as a source of examples for courses in applied optimization.

Inhalt
Part I: Nonconvexity in Engineering Applications. 1. Nonconvexity in Engineering Applications. Part II: Applied Nonconvex Optimization Background. 2. Applied Nonconvex Optimization Background. Part III: Superpotential Modelling and Optimization in Mechanics with and without Convexity and Smoothness. 3. Convex Superpotential Problems. 4. Nonconvex Superpotential Problems. 5. Optimal Design Problems. Part IV: Computational Mechanics. Computer Implementation, Applications and Examples. 6. Computational Mechanics Algorithms. 7. Applications. Index.