Book description
An appealing and engaging introduction to Continuum Mechanics in Biosciences
This book presents the elements of Continuum Mechanics to people
interested in applications to biological systems. It is divided into
two parts, the first of which introduces the basic concepts within a
strictly one-dimensional spatial context. This policy has been adopted
so as to allow the newcomer to Continuum Mechanics to appreciate how
the theory can be applied to important issues in Biomechanics from the
very beginning. These include mechanical and thermodynamical balance,
materials with fading memory and chemically reacting mixtures.
In the second part of the book, the fully fledged three-dimensional
theory is presented and applied to hyperelasticity of soft tissue, and
to theories of remodeling, aging and growth. The book closes with a
chapter devoted to Finite Element analysis. These and other topics are
illustrated with case studies motivated by biomedical applications,
such as vibration of air in the air canal, hyperthermia treatment of
tumours, striated muscle memory, biphasic model of cartilage and
adaptive elasticity of bone. The book offers a challenging and
appealing introduction to Continuum Mechanics for students and
researchers of biomechanics, and other engineering and scientific disciplines.
Key features:
- Explains continuum mechanics using examples from biomechanics for
a uniquely accessible introduction to the topic
- Moves from foundation topics, such as kinematics and balance laws,
to more advanced areas such as theories of growth and the finite
element method..
- Transition from a one-dimensional approach to the general theory
gives the book broad coverage, providing a clear introduction for
beginners new to the topic, as well as an excellent foundation for
those considering moving to more advanced application
Marcelo Epstein is Professor of Mechanical and Manufacturing
Engineering and Adjunct Professor of Kinesiology at the University of
Calgary. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Mechanics,
recipient of the CANCAM prize and University Professor of Rational Mechanics.
