Overview

This book gives an update on recent developments in the mentioned areas of modern engineering design application. Different engineering disciplines such as mechanical, materials, computer, and process engineering provide the foundation for the design and development of improved structures, materials, and processes. The modern design cycle is characterized by an interaction of different disciplines and a strong shift to computer-based approaches where only a few experiments are performed for verification purposes. A major driver for this development is the increased demand for cost reduction and higher efficiency, which is also connected to environmental demands. One way to fulfil such requirements is lighter structures and/or new composite materials and structures. Another emerging area is the interaction of classical engineering with the health, medical, and environmental sector.