Statics with MATLAB(R)

Engineering mechanics involves the development of mathematical models of the physical world. Statics addresses the forces acting on and in mechanical objects and systems. Statics with MATLAB®  develops an understanding of the mechanical behavior of complex engineering structures and components using MATLAB®  to execute numerical calculations and to facilitate analytical calculations.

MATLAB® is presented and introduced as a highly convenient tool to solve problems for theory and applications in statics. Included are example problems to demonstrate the MATLAB® syntax and to also introduce specific functions dealing with statics. These explanations are reinforced through figures generated with MATLAB® and the extra material available online which includes the special functions described.

This detailed introduction and application of MATLAB® to the field of statics makes Statics with MATLAB® a useful tool for instruction as well as self study,  highlighting the use of symbolic MATLAB® for both theory and applications to find analytical and numerical solutions

D.B. Marghitu has a degree from Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse and a PhD from Southern Methodist University, Dallas. He joined the mechanical engineering department at Auburn University, US in 1994. He is the author of more than 60 journal papers and 6 books on dynamics, mechanical impact, mechanisms, robots and biomechanics.

M. Dupac, a senior lecturer in Engineering Design in the School of Design, Engineering and Computing at Bournemouth University, UK, obtained a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Auburn University in USA. His research interests are in the areas of design simulation & modelling, nonlinear dynamics, mechanisms and mechanical vibrations, and biomechanics. He has published over 50 journal and conference papers in these areas.

Nels Madsen earned his Ph.D. in Mechanics and Hydraulics from the University of Iowa.  He joined the Mechanical Engineering department at Auburn University in 1978 where he now holds the rank of Professor and currently serves as an Associate Dean in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.  His research interests are in biomechanics where his work with motion capture systems has been recognized with an Academy Award for Technical Achievement