With the overwhelming use of computers in engineering, science and physics, the approximate solution of complex mathematical systems of equations is almost commonplace. The Best Approximation Method unifies many of the numerical methods used in computational mechanics. Nevertheless, despite the vast quantities of synthetic data there is still some doubt concerning the validity and accuracy of these approximations. This publication assists the computer modeller in his search for the best approximation by presenting functional analysis concepts. Computer programs are provided which can be used by readers with FORTRAN capability. The classes of problems examined include engineering applications, applied mathematics, numerical analysis and computational mechanics. The Best Approximation Method in Computational Mechanics serves as an introduction to functional analysis and mathematical analysis of computer modelling algorithms. It makes computer modellers aware of already established principles and results assembled in functional analysis.

With the overwhelming use of computers in engineering, science and physics, the approximate solution of complex mathematical systems of equations is almost commonplace. The Best Approximation Method unifies many of the numerical methods used in computational mechanics. Nevertheless, despite the vast quantities of synthetic data there is still some doubt concerning the validity and accuracy of these approximations. This publication assists the computer modeller in his search for the best approximation by presenting functional analysis concepts. Computer programs are provided which can be used by readers with FORTRAN capability. The classes of problems examined include engineering applications, applied mathematics, numerical analysis and computational mechanics. The Best Approximation Method in Computational Mechanics serves as an introduction to functional analysis and mathematical analysis of computer modelling algorithms. It makes computer modellers aware of already established principles and results assembled in functional analysis.

This book explores the numerical algorithms underpinning modern finite element based computational mechanics software. It covers all the major numerical methods that are used in computational mechanics. It reviews the basic concepts in linear algebra and advanced matrix theory, before covering solution of systems of equations, symmetric eigenvalue solution methods, and direct integration of discrete dynamic equations of motion, illustrated with numerical examples. This book suits a graduate course in mechanics based disciplines, and will help software developers in computational mechanics. Increased understanding of the underlying numerical methods will also help practicing engineers to use the computational mechanics software more effectively.

This book presents numerical and other approximation techniques for solving various types of mathematical problems that cannot be solved analytically. In addition to well known methods, it contains some non-standard approximation techniques that are now formally collected as well as original methods developed by the author that do not appear in the literature. This book contains an extensive treatment of approximate solutions to various types of integral equations, a topic that is not often discussed in detail. There are detailed analyses of ordinary and partial differential equations and descriptions of methods for estimating the values of integrals that are presented in a level of detail that will suggest techniques that will be useful for developing methods for approximating solutions to problems outside of this text. The book is intended for researchers who must approximate solutions to problems that cannot be solved analytically. It is also appropriate for students taking courses in numerical approximation techniques.

The most commonly used numerical techniques in solving engineering and mathematical models are the Finite Element, Finite Difference, and Boundary Element Methods. As computer capabilities continue to impro':e in speed, memory size and access speed, and lower costs, the use of more accurate but computationally expensive numerical techniques will become attractive to the practicing engineer. This book presents an introduction to a new approximation method based on a generalized Fourier series expansion of a linear operator equation. Because many engineering problems such as the multi dimensional Laplace and Poisson equations, the diffusion equation, and many integral equations are linear operator equations, this new approximation technique will be of interest to practicing engineers. Because a generalized Fourier series is used to develop the approxi mator, a "best approximation" is achieved in the "least-squares" sense; hence the name, the Best Approximation Method. This book guides the reader through several mathematics topics which are pertinent to the development of the theory employed by the Best Approximation Method. Working spaces such as metric spaces and Banach spaces are explained in readable terms. Integration theory in the Lebesque sense is covered carefully. Because the generalized Fourier series utilizes Lebesque integration concepts, the integra tion theory is covered through the topic of converging sequences of functions with respect to measure, in the mean (Lp), almost uniformly IV and almost everywhere. Generalized Fourier theory and linear operator theory are treated in Chapters 3 and 4.

As well as describing the extremely useful applications of the CVBEM, the authors explain its mathematical background -- vital to understanding the subject as a whole. This is the most comprehensive book on the subject, bringing together ten years of work and can boast the latest news in CVBEM technology. It is thus of particular interest to those concerned with solving technical engineering problems -- while scientists, graduate students, computer programmers and those working in industry will all find the book helpful.

Numerical Methods and Methods of Approximation in Science and Engineering prepares students and other readers for advanced studies involving applied numerical and computational analysis. Focused on building a sound theoretical foundation, it uses a clear and simple approach backed by numerous worked examples to facilitate understanding of numerical methods and their application. Readers will learn to structure a sequence of operations into a program, using the programming language of their choice; this approach leads to a deeper understanding of the methods and their limitations. Features: Provides a strong theoretical foundation for learning and applying numerical methods Takes a generic approach to engineering analysis, rather than using a specific programming language Built around a consistent, understandable model for conducting engineering analysis Prepares students for advanced coursework, and use of tools such as FEA and CFD Presents numerous detailed examples and problems, and a Solutions Manual for instructors