Non-linear theory of elasticity and optimal design : how to build safe economical machines and structures : how to build proven reliable physical theory

In order to select an optimal structure among possible similar structures, one needs to compare the elastic behavior of the structures. A new criterion that describes elastic behavior is the rate of change of deformation. Using this criterion, the safe dimensions of a structure that are required by the stress distributed in a structure can be calculated. The new non-linear theory of elasticity allows one to determine the actual individual limit of elasticity/failure of a structure using a simple non-destructive method of measurement of deformation on the model of a structure while presently it can be done only with a destructive test for each structure. For building and explaining the theory, a new logical structure was introduced as the basis of the theory. One of the important physical implications of this logic is that it describes mathematically the universal domain of the possible stable physical relations. Content: Preface , Pages v-vi Introduction , Pages 1-5 Prologue , Pages 7-9 Part I. - Principles and Methods of NLTE , Pages 11-73 United States Patent 5,654,900 (August 5, 1997) Method of and Apparatus for Optimization of Structures , Pages 75-90 Part II. - Linear Theory of Infinitesimal Deformations , Pages 91-106 Part III. - Optimization of Typical Structures , Pages 107-144 Part IV. - Further Discussions in the Theory of Elasticity , Pages 145-153 Part V. - Philosophy and Logic of Physical Theory , Pages 155-261 Bibliography , Pages 263-265 Subject Index , Pages 267-269