About the “normal growth” approximation in the dynamical theory of phase transitions

Nonequilibrium phase transitions can often be modeled by a surface of discontinuity propagating into a metastable region. The physical hypothesis of normal growth presumes a linear relation between the velocity of the phase boundary and the degree of metastability. The phenomenological coefficient, which measures the mobility of the phase boundary, can either be taken from experiment or obtained from an appropriate physical model. This linear approximation is equivalent to assuming the surface entropy production (caused by the kinetic dissipation in a transition layer) to be quadratic in a mass flux.In this paper we investigate the possibility of deducing the normal growth approximation from the viscosity-capillarity model which incorporates both strain rates and strain gradients into constitutive functions. Since this model is capable of describing fine structure of a thick advancing phase boundary, one can derive, rather than postulate, a kinetic relation governing the mobility of the phase boundary and check the validity of the normal growth approximation.We show that this approximation is always justified for sufficiently slow phase boundaries and calculate explicitly the mobility coefficient. By using two exact solutions of the structure problem we obtained unrestricted kinetic equations for the cases of piecewise linear and cubic stress-strain relations. As we show, the domain of applicability of the normal growth approximation can be infinitely small when the effective viscosity is close to zero or the internal capillary length scale tends to infinity. This singular behavior is related to the existence of two regimes for the propagation of the phase boundary — dissipation dominated and inertia dominated.     

A matrix theory of elastic-locking structures

Summary The theory developed exhibits the following peculiar features: structures are discretizised in finite elements, the constitutive laws piecewise linearized, the problem is split in a preliminary linear elastic solution and a corrective nonlinear subproblem; concepts and techniques of quadratic and linear programming theory are utilized. The main results are: for the analysis under given loads and dislocations, a pair of extremum theorems for locking stresses, corresponding to dual quadratic programs; for the limit analysis with respect to locking situations two already known theorems, which are here deduced from the solvability conditions of the above quadratic programs and formulated as dual linear programs. The extension of the results to imperfectly locking behavior is carried out. Some examples illustrate the solution techniques based on the theory expounded.

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Sommario Caratteristiche peculiari della teoria sviluppata sono: discretizzazione della struttura in elementi finiti, linearizzazione a tratti delle leggi costitutive, suddivisione del problema in una preliminare soluzione elastica lineare ed in una fase nonlineare correttiva, utilizzazione di concetti e tecniche della teoria delle programmazioni quadratiche e lineari.Si ottengono, per l'analisi di continui a deformabilità limitata soggetti a dati carichi e distorsioni, due teoremi di estremo corrispondenti a programmi quadratici negli sforzi di bloccaggio; per l'analisi limite al bloccaggio del sistema, due teoremi già noti, che qui si deducono dalle condizioni di solubilità dei precedenti programmi quadratici e si presentano in veste di programmi lineari duali. I risultati ottenuti vengono generalizzati ai casi definibili a deformabilità imperfettamente limitata. Alcuni esempi illustrano le tecniche risolutive che sorgono dalla teoria svolta.

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The study presented here forms part of a research program supported by the C.N.R.     

The onset of Taylor-like vortices in the flow induced by an impulsively started rotating cylinder

The onset of instability in the flow by an impulsively started rotating cylinder is analyzed under linear theory. It is well-known that at the critical Taylor number T_c=1695 the secondary flow in form of Taylor vortices sets in under the narrow-gap approximation. Here the dimensionless critical time _c to mark the onset of instability for TT_c is presented as a function of the Taylor number T. Available experimental data of water indicate that deviation of the velocity profiles from the primary flow occurs starting from a certain time 4_c. It seems evident that during _c4_c the secondary flow is very weak and the primary state of time-dependent annular Couette flow is maintained.     

On the Ellipticity of the Middle Surface of a Shell and its Application to the Asymptotic Analysis of ‘Membrane’ Shells

We consider a surface S = (), where ² is a bounded, connected, open set with a smooth boundary and : ³ is a smooth map; let () denote the components of the two-dimensional linearized strain tensor of S and let 0 with length 0 > 0. We assume the the norm ,|| ()||0, in the space V0() = { H¹() × H¹() × L²(); = 0 on 0 } is equivalent to the usual product norm on this space. We then establish that this assumption implies that the surface S is uniformly elliptic and that we necessarily have 0 = .     

On elastic-plastic structures with associated stress-strain relations allowing for work softening

Summary For the elementary (finite or infinitesimal) constituents of the structure are assumed generalized stress-strain relations which satisfy the condition of normality but which may exhibit work-softening, concavity of yield surfaces, variation of elastic coefficients with stress and/or plastic strain.The usual phenomena of geometric instability are excluded. Sufficient conditions are formulated for overall stability in spite of the presence of unstable elements, and for uniqueness of the incremental boundary-values problem. Conditions are discussed with a view to applications and expressed in terms of positive definiteness of appropriate quadratic forms.Finally, yield surfaces and flow laws for the structure are examined, and among other things their necessary association is shown.

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Sommario Per i costituenti elementari (finiti o infinitesimi) della struttura si assumono legami incrementali tra sforzi e deformazioni generalizzati che soddisfano alla condizione di normalità ma che per il resto sono generici, cioè tali da presentare eventualmente incrudimento negativo, concavità del campo elastico, variazione dei coefficienti elastici con gli sforzi e/o con le deformazioni plastiche.Esclusi per il sistema i fenomeni usuali di instabilità geometrica si formulano condizioni sufficienti per la stabilità del complesso nonostante la presenza di parti a funzionamento instabile, e per l'unicità del problema incrementale al contorno. Le condizioni sono discusse in vista delle applicazioni ed espresse in termini di definizione positiva di forme quadratiche opportune.Si esaminano infine le superfici di snervamento e le leggi di scorrimento per l'intera struttura e, tra l'altro, se ne dimostra la necessaria associazione.

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First published in Italian in Rendiconti dell'Istituto Lombardo Classe Scienze e Lettere, A 100, 1966.The present investigation has been promoted and financed by the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (C.N.R.) at the Istituto di Scienza delle Costruzioni of the Facoltà di Architettura, Politecnico of Milano. Part of it was carried out at Brown University (Providence R. I. - U.S.A.). The author acknowledges with tanks the NATO Fellowship assigned by the C.N.R. in 1964, the encouragement and kind hospitality he received from Professor D.C. Drucker, and the interesting discussions he had with Professor Drucker and Dr. A. C. Palmer.     

On linear versus nonlinear flow rules in strain localization analysis

Summary This note contains some remarks on the analysis of bifurcation phenomena, specifically strain localization (onset of a strain rate discontinuity), in small-deformation elastoplasticity. Nonassociative flow rules are allowed for to cover constitutive models frequently adopted for frictional (and softening) materials such as concrete. The conventional derivation of the localization criterion resting on an incrementally linear comparison material is critically reviewed and compared to the criterion resulting from actual nonlinear plastic flow laws.

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Sommario Si svolgono alcune considerazioni sui fenomeni di biforcazione in solidi elastoplastici in regime di piccole deformazioni (di linearità geometrica) e precisamente sul manifestarsi di localizzazioni intese come discontinuità nel campo delle deformazioni incrementali. Si considerano leggi nonassociate. Vengono così inclusi nella trattazione modelli costitutivi frequentemente adottati per descrivere il comportamento di materiali ad attrito interno e soggetti a danneggiamento (nel senso di degrado di rigidezze elastiche in seguito a deformazioni anelastiche), oltre che soggetti a manifestazioni di instabilità per incrudimento negativo (softening). Si esamina criticamente il criterio, frequentemente adottato in letteratura, di localizzazione fondato su materiale di confronto incrementalmente lineare e si fornisce, corredato da osservazioni comparative, il criterio che risulta dall'assunzione del modello di materiale incrementale non lineare

     

Indentation of the semi-infinite elastic solid by a concave rigid punch

A solution is obtained for the relationship between load, displacement and inner contact radius for an axisymmetric, spherically concave, rigid punch, indenting an elastic half-space. Analytic approximations are developed for the limiting cases in which the ratio of the inner and outer radii of the annular contact region is respectively small and close to unity. These approximations overlap well at intermediate values. The same method is applied to the conically concave punch and to a punch with a central hole. , , . , . . .     

The free energy of a macroscopic system

The statistical mechanics of classical and quantum mechanical systems interacting with many-body forces are investigated in the canonical and grand canonical ensembles. Under various general conditions on the attractive and repulsive parts of the potential energy and on the shapes of the domains _k confining the system, it is shown that the canonical free energy per particle and the grand canonical pressure have unique limits for infinite systems which are convex monotonie functions of the specific volume and chemical potential respectively, and satisfy the expected thermodynamic relations.For pure pair forces with potential (r) sufficient conditions are: (r)D ₁/r³⁺ as r0, |(r)|D ₂/r³⁺ as r (>0), and (r)-w₀ all r; the domains _k may be constructed from a finite set of bounded domains of arbitrary shape by any sequence of isotropic expansions such that the volume V(_k) approaches infinity with k.The work reported here was done while the author was on leave of absence from The Wheatstone Physics Laboratory, King's College, London W. C. 2, England.     

Pressure measuring techniques in I.C.E.

Summary A revue of the possible errors affecting pressure measurements in internal combustion engines is presented. A new instrument based on the principle of the Balanced Pressure Indicator and signal multiplexing was developped. Its characteristics used both to obtain an accurate mean pressure diagram and to calibrate pressure transducers in working engines. The overall ability of obtaining meaningful pressure data was shown, even if it is clear that pressure measurements are more an art than a mere technique, given the complexity of the problems involved.

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Sommario L'articolo presenta un'analisi dei possibili errori che possono distorcere la misurazione delle pressioni nella camera di combustione dei motori a combustione interna. Un nuovo strumento, basato sul principio dell'indicatore di pressione a bilanciamento di pressioni e del multiplex a modi di impulsi, è qui anche presentato ed utilizzato sia per ottenere un diagramma medio di pressioni di notevole accuratezza, che per calibrare trasduttori di pressione in condizioni di lavoro, cioè mentre il motore è in funzione. Ne risulta che è possibile ottenere diagrammi di pressione veramente rappresentativi delle condizioni di lavoro del motore, anche se è chiaro che, data la complessità dei problemi relativi a detta misurazione, misurare la pressione nei motori è più un'arte che pura tecnica.

     

Hypersonic flow past blunt-edged delta wings

A method is proposed for calculating hypersonic ideal-gas flow past blunt-edged delta wings with aspect ratios = 100–200. Systematic wing flow calculations are carried out on the intervals 6 M 20, 0 20, 60 80; the results are analyzed in terms of hypersonic similarity parameters.Translated from Izvestiya Akademii Nauk SSSR, Mekhanika Zhidkosti i Gaza, No. 5, pp. 175–179, September–October, 1990.     

Group Classification of Equations of the Form y″ = f(x,y)

The problem of classification of ordinary differential equations of the form y = f(x,y) by admissible local Lie groups of transformations is solved. Standard equations are listed on the basis of the equivalence concept. The classes of equations admitting a oneparameter group and obtained from the standard equations by invariant extension are described.     

Optical co-ordinates in general relativity 2 — the problem of distance

Summary Let denote the congruence of null geodesics associated with a given optical observer inV ₄. We prove that determines a unique collection of vector fieldsM₍₎ ( =1, 2, 3) and ₍₀₎ overV ₄, satisfying a weak version of Killing's conditions.This allows a natural interpretation of these fields as the infinitesimal generators of spatial rotations and temporal translation relative to the given observer. We prove also that the definition of the fieldsM₍₎ and ₍₀₎ is mathematically equivalent to the choice of a distinguished affine parameter f along the curves of, playing the role of a retarded distance from the observer.The relation between f and other possible definitions of distance is discussed.

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Sommario Sia la congruenza di geodetiche nulle associata ad un osservatore ottico assegnato nello spazio-tempoV ₄. Dimostriamo che determina un'unica collezione di campi vettorialiM₍₎ ( =1, 2, 3) e ₍₀₎ inV ₄ che soddisfano una versione in forma debole delle equazioni di Killing. Ciò suggerisce una naturale interpretazione di questi campi come generatori infinitesimi di rotazioni spaziali e traslazioni temporali relative all'osservatore assegnato. Dimostriamo anche che la definizione dei campiM₍₎, ₍₀₎ è matematicamente equivalente alla scelta di un parametro affine privilegiato f lungo le curve di, che gioca il ruolo di distanza ritardata dall'osservatore. Successivamente si esaminano i legami tra f ed altre possibili definizioni di distanza in grande.

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Work performed in the sphere of activity of: Gruppo Nazionale per la Fisica Matematica del CNR.     

Topological entropy of a dynamical system on the space of one-dimensional maps

We study properties of the topological entropy of the map F: f , C(I), generated by a fixed continuous map f C(I) of an interval of the straight line. In particular, we show that the topological entropy h(F) > 0 if and only if h(f) > 0.Translated from Neliniini Kolyvannya, Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 180–187, April–June, 2004.     

<Emphasis Type="Italic">C</Emphasis><Superscript>1</Superscript> Regularity for Infinity Harmonic Functions in Two Dimensions

A continuous function is said to be infinity harmonic if it satisfies the PDEin the viscosity sense. In this paper we prove that infinity harmonic functions are continuously differentiable when n=2.     

Temperament Development Modeled as a Nonlinear Complex Adaptive System

Using approach-withdrawal (AW) as a specific instance of temperament, a theoretical model of temperament as a complex dynamic system is proposed. Developmental contextualism (Lerner, 1998) serves as a guiding theory in determining the structural components of the system and Kauffman's (1993) Boolean models of self-organization are adapted to estimate the parameter functions. In this model P(AW) = f(, ) where P(AW) is the probability density function of an approach or a withdrawal response, ( is a standardized parameter estimate of the biological sensitivity to stimulation, and is a standardized parameter estimate of the contextual response to an approach or withdrawal response. It is theorized that the functions of ( and follow a Hill function of the forms: d /dt = (²/c² + ²) – K₁ d /dt = ( ²/c² + ²) – K₂, where K₁, K₂, and c are system constants. This results in a double sigmoid function in which at extreme values of and the system stabilizes on a steady state of either approach or withdrawal response patterns. At intermediate parameter values the probability density functions of approach and withdrawal responses are wider. Thus, AW can be modeled as representing two basins of attraction. In addition, considerations are given to the systems sensitivity to initial conditions.     

Dissolution of an ellipsoidal bubble in a slightly viscous liquid

The steady-state velocity, the degree of deformation, and the convective-diffusion-limited rate of quasisteady-state growth (or dissolution) are considered for gas bubbles having shapes close to those of spheres or disks. It is assumed that there are no surface-active substances in the liquid. A qualitative agreement is found between the calculated dissolution rate and the experimental data.Notation a radius of the sphere of equivalent volume - u bubble velocity with respect to the still liquid at infinity - kinematic viscosity of the liquid - liquid density - D gas diffusion coefficient in the liquid - surface tension - g gravitational acceleration - d [R=2au/]-Reynolds number - e [P=2au/D]-Peclet number - f [W=2au²/]-Weber number The author thanks V. G. Levich for a discussion of these results.     

Universal Laws in Application to Evolutionary Economics

The purpose of the present paper is to reveal some conformities to natural universal laws allowing to advance the theory of evolutionary economics. The second law of thermodynamics, Le Chatelie–Brown principle as universal laws are applied for nonlinear dynamical economic systems. The ergodic hypothesis is applied for dynamical economic systems as one from principles of economic forecasting. From the point of view of statistical physics, entropy is applied as universal function of a condition for economic systems. The evolution of economic dynamical systems at macro and microeconomic levels from the point of view of thermodynamics, statistical physics, and diffusion processes is investigated. The law of money circulation is formulated as one of the forms of display of energy conservation law in economic space. The concept of parametric economic space is introduced. The concepts of energy and number of degrees of freedom of a dynamical economic system allow substantiated cause and effect connections between the evolution of the system and a number of economic factors (forces), influencing on the system (degree of an openness, freedom of an economic system). The character of the development of technologies and the product life cycle are investigated as a nonlinear economic process. The concept of a wave function describing a technological wave connected with the entropy of a system of economic cells is introduced.     

Some remarks on differential equations of quadratic type

In this paper we study differential equations of the formx(t) + x(t)=f(x(t)), x(0)=x ₀ C HereC is a closed, bounded convex subset of a Banach spaceX,f(C) C, and it is often assumed thatf(x) is a quadratic map. We study the differential equation by using the general theory of nonexpansive maps and nonexpansive, non-linear semigroups, and we obtain sharp results in a number of cases of interest. We give a formula for the Lipschitz constant off: C C, and we derive a precise explicit formula for the Lipschitz constant whenf is quadratic,C is the unit simplex inR ⁿ, and thel ₁ norm is used. We give a new proof of a theorem about nonexpansive semigroups; and we show that if the Lipschitz constant off: CC is less than or equal to one, then lim_tf(x(t))–x(t)=0 and, if {x(t):t 0} is precompact, then lim_tx(t) exists. Iff¦C=L¦C, whereL is a bounded linear operator, we apply the nonlinear theory to prove that (under mild further conditions on C) lim_t f(x(t))–x(t)=0 and that lim_t x(t) exists if {x(t):t 0} is precompact. However, forn 3 we give examples of quadratic mapsf of the unit simplex ofR ⁿ into itself such that lim_t x(t) fails to exist for mostx ₀ C andx(t) may be periodic. Our theorems answer several questions recently raised by J. Herod in connection with so-called model Boltzmann equations.     

Convergence for Semilinear Degenerate Parabolic Equations in Several Space Dimensions

We show that any global nonnegative and bounded solution to the degenerate parabolic problemu_t-u^m+f(u)=0 qquad {\rm on} quad R^N,u|{}=0converges to a single stationary state as time goes to infinity. Here m>0, f is a restriction of a real analytic function defined on a sector containing the half-line [0, ), and f(u ^1/m ) is a continuously differentiable function of u.