Assuming background knowledge in elementary vibrations, it provides a set of useful tools for understanding and analyzing the more complex dynamical phenomena that can be met in engineering and scientific practice. Summarizing first basic linear vibration theory, it progresses over various types of nonlinearity and nonlinear interaction to bifurcation analysis, chaotic vibrations, and special high-frequency effects. It trains the student to analyze simple models, recognize nonlinear phenomena, and work with advanced tools such as perturbation analysis and bifurcation analysis. Focusing attention on a limited number of simple, generic models, the book covers the qualitative behavior of a wide variety of mechanical/structural systems; the key examples dealt with can be fabricated as simple physical models for classroom demonstrations. Explaining theory in terms of relevant examples from real systems, this book is user-friendly and meets the increasing interest in, and significance of, nonlinear dynamics in mechanical/structural engineering. This 3rd edition adds many new topics, sections, figures, exercise problems, literature references, and other updates; it is backed up by a separately available booklet with worked out solutions to exercise problems. |