 The current undergraduate textbooks on dynamics and control are heavily biased toward linear systems, with nonlinearity treated as oddity. Over the past few years there has been an increasing realization that most of the physical systems are nonlinear, and linearity is a very special case. But the training of the engineer often renders him/her hopelessly short of the challenges. This book is aimed to address this problem, first by introducing those methodologies of system modeling that make no reference to linearity, and then by developing an understanding of dynamics where linear system description is put in proper perspective --- as local linear approximation in the neighborhood of an equilibrium point.
The book is divided into two parts. In the first part, the readers are introduced to the methods and techniques for translating a physical problem into mathematical language by formulating differential equations. The Newtonian, Lagrangian, and bond graph methods are introduced and illustrated with reference to electrical, mechanical and electromechanical systems. In the second part, the method of local linearization is introduced, and the dynamics of linear systems are then analyzed using eigenvalues and eigenvectors. The objective is to develop a geometric understanding of dynamics in the state space. This book also introduces those aspects of nonlinear and discrete dynamics which any 21st century engineer, irrespective of discipline, should know.
Key features:
- Introduces the Newtonian, Lagrangian, Hamiltonian, and Bond Graph methodologies, and illustrates how these can be effectively used for obtaining differential equations for a wide variety of mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems.
- Develops a geometric understanding of the dynamics of physical systems by introducing the state space, and the character of the vector field around equilibrium points.
- Sets out features of the dynamics of nonlinear systems, such as like limit cycles, high-period orbits, and chaotic orbits.
- Establishes methodologies for formulating discrete-time models, and for developing dynamics in discrete state space.
Senior undergraduate and graduate students in electrical, mechanical, civil, aeronautical and allied branches of engineering will find this book a valuable resource, as will lecturers in system modelling, analysis, control and design.
The book can be ordered through Wiley:
http://eu.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0470868449.html |
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