An approach for obtaining approximate formulas for the Rayleigh wave velocity

In this paper, we introduce an approach for finding analytical approximate formulas for the Rayleigh wave velocity for isotropic elastic solids and anisotropic elastic media as well. The approach is based on the least-square principle. To demonstrate its application, we applied it in order to obtain an explanation for Bergmann’s approximation, the earliest known approximation of the Rayleigh wave velocity for isotropic elastic solids, and used it to establish a new approximation. By employing this approach, the best approximate polynomials of the second order of the cubic power and the quartic power in the interval [0, 1] were found. By using the best approximate polynomial of the second order of the cubic power, we derived an approximate formula for the Rayleigh wave speed in isotropic elastic solids which is slightly better than the one given recently by Rahman and Michelitsch by employing Lanczos’s approximation. Also by using this second order polynomial, analytical approximate expressions for orthotropic, incompressible and compressible elastic solids were found. For incompressible case, it is shown that the approximation is comparable with Rahman and Michelitsch’s approximation, while for the compressible case, it is shown that our approximate formulas are more accurate than Mozhaev’s ones. Remarkably, by using the best approximate polynomials of the second order of the cubic power and the quartic power in the interval [0, 1], we derived an approximate formula of the Rayleigh wave velocity in incompressible monoclinic materials, where the explicit exact formulas of the Rayleigh wave velocity so far are not available.     

Exact and approximate formulas for deflections of an elastically fixed rod under transverse loading

An exact solution is obtained for the nonlinear bending problem of a thin rod elastically fixed at one end and loaded by a transverse concentrated load of constant direction at the other end. The solution is written in parametric form and expressed in terms of the Jacobi elliptic functions. Based on the exact solutions, approximate formulas are proposed for the de.ection of the rod tip. __________ Translated from Prikladnaya Mekhanika i Tekhnicheskaya Fizika, Vol. 48, No. 1, pp. 151–160, January–February, 2007.     

Theoretical studies on heterogeneous deflagration Waves. 2. An approximate ordinary differential equation formulation of the problem

Summary This is the second of a three — part theoretical study on heterogeneous deflagration wave propagation. The theory is of a general nature; but specific reference to a composite solid rocket propellant is made. The ultimate objective of this line of research is to define conditions for statically and dynamically stable deflagration propagation. In the first paper, a quite general model of the problem in terms of a partial differential equation was shown. In this second paper, a transformation of the mathematical problem into an ordinary differential equation is performed. A flame model is used for the gas phase. The important assumptions made are: quasi-steady gas phase, optically opaque condensed phase; collapsed burning surface layer and constant ambient temperature. Under these assumptions, it is found that the dynamics of a deflagrating substance is governed by a nonlinear first order (approximate) ordinary differential equation in the unknown surface temperature history. From this, the stability features of heterogeneous deflagration waves are immediately defined (last part of the study). The theory is verified by computer and experimental work, presently under progress.

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Sommario Questa è la seconda di una serie di tre memorie dedicate all'analisi teorica della propagazione di onde eterogenee di deflagrazione. La teoria è di natura generale, ma per concretezza viene applicata al caso specifico di un propellente solido composito per endoreattori. Lo scopo finale della ricerca è di definire le condizioni necessarie per la stabilità statica e dinamica della propagazione di onde eterogenee di deflagrazione. Nella prima memoria è stato rivisto un modello abbastanza generale del problema basato su di una equazione differenziale alle derivate parziali. In questa seconda memoria il problema matematico è riformulato in termini di una equazione differenziale ordinaria. La fase gassosa è trattata secondo un modello di fiamma. Le ipotesi più importanti riguardano la fase gassosa quasi-stazionaria, la fase condensata otticamente opaca, lo strato reagente superficiale di spessore nullo e la temperatura ambiente costante. Sotto queste ipotesi si trova che la dinamica di una deflagrazione è retta da una equazione (approssimata) differenziale ordinaria nonlineare del primo ordine che descrive la storia della temperatura di superficie. Tale equazione permette di definire immediatamente le proprietà di stabilità di onde eterogenee di deflagrazione (terza memoria). Sono in corso di svolgimento le verifiche numeriche e sperimentali della teoria proposta.

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Support by CNPM (Centro di Studio per Ricerche sulla Propulsione e sull'Energetica) is gratefully aknowledged.     

Non-linear argumental oscillators: Stability criterion and approximate implicit analytic solution

The behaviour of a space-modulated, so-called “argumental” oscillator, is studied. The oscillator is submitted to an external harmonic force, which is amplitude-modulated by the oscillator's position in space. An analytic expression of a stability criterion is given. Using the averaging method, an integrating factor and a Van der Pol representation in the (amplitude, phase)-space, an exact implicit analytic solution is given when there is no damping, and an approximate implicit analytic solution is given when there is damping, allowing the plotting of the separatrix curve. An attractor is identified.     

Arguments for and against Engesser's buckling formulas

Summary To account for shear in buckling pioblems, one uses either the approach of Engesser or the socalled modified approach, proposed by Haringx in connection with helical springs. Both are based on onedimensional reasoning. While most authors seem to prefer the second method, Nänni [4] has shown by means of the three-dimensional theory of elasticity that, for bars, the first one is superior. The present paper is based on a more fundamental one-dimensional approach and confirms Nänni's and hence Engesser's results. It also shows that, together with shear, shortening of the bar must be taken into account, and it improves Engesser's formulas accordingly. It finally shows why Haringx' approach is correct for springs.

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Argumente für und gegen Engessers Knickformeln

Übersicht Um bei Knickproblemen den Schub zu berücksichtigen, verwendet man entweder das Engessersche oder das sogenannte modifizierte Verfahren, das von Haringx zur Behandlung von Schraubenfedern vorgeschlagen worden ist. Während die meisten Autoren die zweite Methode vorzuziehen scheinen, hat Nänni [4] mittels der dreidimensionalen Elastizitätstheorie gezeigt, daß bei Stäben die erste überlegen ist. Die vorliegende Arbeit stützt sich auf ein fundamentaleres eindimensionales Verfahren und bestätigt Nännis und damit Engessers Ergebnisse. Sie zeigt auch, daß mit dem Schub zusammen die Verkürzung des Stabes zu berücksichtigen ist, und sie verbessert Engessers Formeln dementsprechend. Schließlich zeigt sie, weshalb das Verfahren von Haringx bei Federn korrekt ist.

     

Integral formulas in symmetric and asymmetric elasticity

Several new integral representations of the solutions to some problems of the moment and nonmoment theories of elasticity for heterogeneous bodies are proposed in terms of the solutions to the same problems for homogeneous bodies. In particular, these integral representations can be used to substantiate the homogenization procedure for composite mechanics problems.     

Homogenization in probabilistic terms: The variational principle and some approximate solutions

Studying of materials with evolving random microstructures requires the knowledge of probabilistic characteristics of local fields because the path of the microstructure evolution is controlled by the local fields. The probabilistic characteristics of local fields are determined by the probabilistic characteristics of material properties. In this paper it is considered the problem of finding the probabilistic characteristic of local fields, if the probabilistic characteristics of material properties are given. The probabilistic characteristics of local fields are sought from the variational principle for probabilistic measure. Minimizers of this variational problem provide all statistical information of local fields as well as the effective coefficients. Approximate solutions are obtained for electric current in composites for two cases: multi-phase isotropic composites with lognormal distribution of conductivities and two-phase isotropic composites. The solutions contain a lot of statistical information that has not been available previously by analytical treatments.     

Projectile motion in a resistant medium Part II: approximate solution and estimates

The motion of a particle which is projected into a resistant medium and subjected to a uniform gravitational field is considered. The drag force that acts upon the particle within the medium is proportional to the particle speed squared. The problem is formulated in terms of particle-speed and local-path-angle variables, and the equations of motion that result are non-linear and coupled. An exact solution to these equations can be obtained but involves quadratures which cannot be analytically evaluated in terms of standard functions. An approximate solution that is remarkably accurate is presented. This solution is based upon the so-called cubic law, which is motivated by certain properties of the exact solution. This solution is also utilized to obtain estimates for the maximum projectile range, optimal projection angle, and other quantities of interest related to the particle motion.     

Elastic wedge impact onto a liquid surface: Wagner's solution and approximate models

The problem of elastic wedge impact onto the free surface of an ideal incompressible liquid of infinite depth is considered. The liquid flow is two-dimensional, symmetric and potential. The side walls of the wedge are modelled as Euler beams, which are either simply supported or connected to the main structure by linear springs. The liquid flow, the deflection of wedge walls and the size of wetted region are determined simultaneously within the Wagner theory of water impact. We are concerned with the impact conditions of strong coupling between the hydrodynamic loads and the structural response. The coupling is well pronounced for elastic wedges with small deadrise angles. This is the case when the fully nonlinear models fail and approximate models based on the Wagner approach are used. In contrast to the existing approximate models, we do not use any further simplifications within the Wagner theory. Calculations of the velocity potential are reduced to analytical evaluation of the added-mass matrix. Hydrodynamic pressures are not evaluated in the present analysis. In order to estimate the maximum bending stresses, both stages when the wedge surface is partially and totally wetted are considered.Three approximate models of water impact, which are frequently used in practical computations, are examined and their predictions are tested against the present numerical solution obtained by the normal mode method within the Wagner theory. It is shown that the decoupled model of elastic wedge impact, which does not account for the beam inertia, provides a useful formula for estimating the maximum bending stress in thick wedge platings.     

An approximate analysis for contraction and converging flows

An approximate analysis is presented for the flow of fluids through planar and axisymmetric contractions. Energy principles are employed to relate the entry pressure drop to flow rate and fundamental rheometric properties. One of the aims of the analysis is to investigate the influence of extensional viscosity on such flows, particularly with regard to the occurrence and enhancement of vortex motion in the entry corners.For the sake of mathematical simplicity, independent power-law models are used to represent the shear and extensional viscosity functions. The analysis indicates that, once significant vortex motion is present, enhancement occurs whenever the Trouton ratio is an increasing function of shearrate (or stretch-rate). It is readily seen how the occurrence of vortices serves as a stress relief mechanism. Indeed, for highly stretch-thickening materials, the entry pressure drop is seen to be dominated by shear properties.The power-law parameters of the extensional viscosity function may be obtained in a straight-forward way from entry pressure drop versus flow rate data.Finally, the extension and application of the analysis to other similar flows, such as through converging nozzles, is briefly discussed.     

Heterochromatin and Complexity: A Theoretical Approach

Heterochromatin represents 30% of eukaryotic genome in Drosophila and 15% in humans. Despite extensive research spanning many decades, its evolutionary significance, as well as the forces that guarantee its maintenance, are still elusive. Many theoretical and experimental approaches have led researchers to propose several conceptual frameworks to elucidate the nature of this huge mysterious genetic material and its spreading in all eukaryotic genomes. Junk DNA as well as selfish genetic material are two examples of such attempts, but several lines of evidence suggest that such explanations are incomplete. In fact, if the selfish DNA hypothesis does not explain the mapping of genetic functions in heterochromatin, then the junk DNA hypothesis is incomplete in describing both emergence of genetic functions and their maintenance in the eukaryotic heterochromatin. Recent developments in the physics of complex systems and mathematical concepts such as fractals provide new conceptual clues to answer several basic questions concerning the emergence of heterochromatin in eukaryotic genomes, its evolutionary significance, the forces that guarantee its maintenance, and its peculiar behavior in the eukaryotic cell. The aim of this paper is to provide a new theoretical framework for the heterochromatin, considering such genetic material in physical terms as a complex adaptive system. We apply some computer calculations to demonstrate the nonlinearity of the flux of genetic information along the phylogenic tree. Fractal dimensions of representative heterochromatic sequences are provided. A theory is proposed in which heterochromatin is considered a system that evolves in a self-organized manner at the edge of cellular and environmental chaos.     

Stochastic averaging: An approximate method of solving random vibration problems

Results obtained by applying the method of stochastic averaging to random vibration problems are discussed. This method is applicable to a variety of problems involving the response of lightly damped systems to broad-band random excitations. Solutions pertaining to both linear and non-linear vibrations are reviewed, and it is shown that the technique enables, in the case of parametric excitation, stability criteria to be established. Some results which have been obtained relating to the first-passage reliability problems are also surveyed. Various applications of the theory to engineering problems are outlined.     

Exact results and approximate models for porous viscoplastic solids

The aim of this paper is to present new approximate macroscopic models for porous viscoplastic materials, based on partial but exact results applicable to such media. Available results are first supplemented by providing a new inequality (which, in addition to its intrinsic interest, allows one to rederive in a simpler way some previous bounds of Ponte-Castaneda and Talbot and Willis), and by exhibiting the exact form of the overall potential of a typical porous viscoplastic volume element, namely a hollow cylinder loaded in generalized plane strain. Approximate expressions for the macroscopic viscoplastic potentials of materials containing cavities of cylindrical or spherical shape are then proposed, based on these and other results; these expressions satisfy, in particular, the three following natural requirements: (i) reproduce the exact solution of a hollow cylinder or sphere loaded in hydrostatic tension or compression; (ii) be a quadratic form of the overall stress tensor in the extreme case of a Newtonian (linear) behaviour; and (iii) yield the currently accepted Gurson criterion in the other extreme case of an ideal-plastic behavior.     

An approach to approximate analysis of deformation and strain

An approach to approximate analysis of deformation and strain is developed from recent work on Cauchy mean rotation [1,2]. The approximate expressions of Green strain usually employed in solving problems of nonlinear mechanics and their errors are discussed. The estimation of error is strictly based on the definition of small strain and medium or large rotation.     

General hyperbolic difference formulas for linear and quasilinear hyperbolic equations

The method of non-standard finite elements was used to develop multilevel difference schemes for linear and quasilinear hyperbolic equations with Dirichlet boundary conditions. A closed form equation of kth-order accuracy in space and time (O(Δt^k, Δx^k)) was developed for one-dimensional systems of linear hyperbolic equations with Dirichlet boundary conditions. This same equation is also applied to quasilinear systems. For the quasilinear systems a simple iteration technique was used to maintain the kth-order accuracy. Numerical results are presented for the linear and non-linear inviscid Burger's equation and a system of shallow water equations with Dirichlet boundary conditions.     

WAVELET APPROXIMATE INERTIAL MANIFOLD AND NUMERICAL SOLUTION OF BURGERS'''' EQUATION

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Effect of surface emittance and approximate kernels in radiation-conduction interaction

Representative results are presented for nongray radiation-conduction interaction in a radiating gas bounded by two gray infinite parallel plates. The effect of the surface emittanee on the interaction of radiation with conduction for diffuse surfaces and a special case of one black surface combined with a diffusely emitting, specularly reflecting surface is investigated. Additionally, the accuracy of the one-term exponential kernel approximation is examined.