Smart Structures

Smart structures and structural components can sense a change in temperature, pressure, or strain; diagnose a problem; and initiate an appropriate action to preserve structural integrity. This text provides the basic information needed to analyze and design smart devices and structures. Among the topics covered are piezoelectric crystals, shape memory alloys, electrorheological fluids, vibration absorbers, fiber optics, and mistuning. A final chapter explores biomimetics and design strategies that can be incorporated at the microstructural level deriving inspiration from biological structures. The design of smart structures is at the cutting edge of engineering research and development, and this introductory book on the subject will be welcomed by both students and practicing engineers.