Dynamic Stability of Structures

Dynamic Stability of Structures covers the proceedings of an International Conference on Dynamic Stability of Structures, held in Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois on October 18-20, 1965, jointly sponsored by the Air Force of Scientific Research and Northwestern University. The conference aims to delineate the various categories of dynamic stability phenomena. This book is organized into six sections encompassing 20 chapters that tackle general topics such as mathematical methods of analysis, physical phenomena, design applications in engineering, and reports of field research. The first two sections deal with the fundamentals, principles, and concept of dynamic stability, as well as an introduction to the use of computing machines as an aid in studying the motions of complicated dynamical systems. The succeeding two sections highlight the statistical aspects in the structural stability theory and certain problems of structural dynamic. These sections also look into the dynamic buckling of elastic structures and the buckling of long slender ships due to wave-induced whipping. The last two sections explore the stability and vibration problems of mechanical systems under harmonic excitation and the dynamic buckling under step loading. These sections also include discussions on the nonlinear dynamic response of shell-type structures and of a column under random loading, as well as Italian research in the field. Structural and mechanical engineers will find this book invaluable.