Rigid Body Dynamics

Building up from first principles and simple scenarios, this comprehensive introduction to rigid body dynamics gradually introduces readers to tools to address involved real-world problems, and cutting-edge research topics. Using a unique blend of conceptual, theoretical and practical approaches, concepts are developed and rigorously applied to practical examples in a consistent and understandable way. It includes discussion of real-world applications including robotics and vehicle dynamics, and over 40 thought-provoking fully worked examples to cement readers' understanding. Providing a wealth of resources allowing readers to confidently self-assess – including over 100 problems with solutions, over 400 high quality multiple choice questions, and end-of-chapter puzzles dealing with everyday situations – this is an ideal companion for undergraduate students in aerospace, civil and mechanical engineering.

Table of Contents:
Preface; Abbreviations; Introduction; 1. Particle dynamics; 2. Interaction forces between rigid bodies; 3. Mass distribution; 4. Vector theorems; 5. Work-energy theorem; 6. Method of virtual power; 7. Lagrange's equations; 8. Introduction to percussive dynamics; Index.

About the Author :
Joaquim A. Batlle is Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, and a member of the Royal Academy of Sciences and Arts of Barcelona. Ana Barjau Condomines is Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya.

Review :
'As a teacher of mechanics to engineering graduate students for more than 30 years, I have always been inspired by the particular clear and rigorous style followed by the authors to present the concepts and ideas of mechanics. This second volume in this series on mechanics of particles and rigid bodies culminates their work in collecting a lifelong experience into this book series. The explicit notation and language and the numerous examples and exercises make it a perfect learning companion. This book on dynamics, along with its kinematics companion, are my first choices as teaching reference books.' Javier Ros, Public University of Navarre (UPNA) 'A rigorous and thorough account of the dynamics of systems of rigid bodies, this book is an invaluable reference for the practitioner and a foundational teaching guide for the student. A treasure trove of examples, exercises and quizzes provide the necessary additional scaffolding for a real understanding of the subject.' Juan Reyero, greaterskies.com 'Rigid Body Dynamics is a textbook of classical mechanics highly recommended for engineering students, because the principles of rigid body dynamics are applied to practical cases. The authors present a textbook following the style of their previous work (Rigid Body Kinematics), of which this textbook is a natural continuation. The textbook is beautifully illustrated with realistic schemes that make a clear and easily understandable text …' Maria Rosario Isabel Lopez Hermoso, University of Barcelona 'This comprehensive introduction to rigid body dynamics is a tour de force. The information contained in it is clearly the outcome of distilling a lot of information over years, to come out with an outstandingly clear text with a connecting thread so well designed that no gap is left in the discussion. Every single point is perfectly motivated and proved. The beautifully illustrated examples and exercises are an excellent complement to the theoretical part. As a result, this book is ideal not only for the classroom but also for self-study. From start to finish, it is an instant classic and, from my point of view, one of the very best on the topic.' Federico Thomas, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) 'At the advanced undergraduate level, this could be an excellent standard text … Highly recommended.' M. O. Farooq, Choice