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Informatics in structural engineering
BOOK R EVIEWS Optimal Allocation o f Water Resources Edited by M. J. Lowing 1AHS Publications No. 135, Washington, DC, 416 pp. This b o o k contains the proceedings of a symposium held during the First Scientific General Assembly of the International Association of Hydrological Sciences (IAHS) at Exeter, UK, 19-30 July 1982. The IAHS International Commission on Water Resources System ( I C W R S ) c o n Vened this symposium with the support of UNESCO. The objective of the symposium wass to examine the hydrological aspects of water management and to consider how limited w a t e r resources may best be used to meet demands on them. There are 40 papers written by experts from many parts of the world. They have been arranged under the headings of (1) supporting techniques and investigative methods for primary resources development, (2) methods of analysis for developing regional and national water policies, (3) techniques of analysing existing systems for operational purposes and (4) case studies. The contributions cover a diversity of optimization methodologies under various conflicting constraints of water allocation criteria. This b o o k offers a broad cross-section of hydrological modelling applications including reservoir operation, groundwater systems, climatic variability and extremes, basin runoffs, water quality and water balances. Many of these stochastic and deterministic models are used in optimization algorithms for design problems, real-time operations and national or regional policy-making procedures. In these applications, some are fairly general and flexible; others are site specific. As such, therefore, this b o o k is suitable for practising engineers and scientists in both developed and developing countries who would like to acquire the stateof-the-art knowledge in water resources allocation research. For policy-makers who are more technically inclined, this b o o k may also offer practical and theoretical arguments in the development and implementation of philosophies for settling the conflicts of water usage. The editorial efforts are commendable in bringing together and polishing up the contributed p a p e r s i n t o a uniform, neatly typed and easily readable volume.
David C L. Lam National WaterResearch, Ontario, Canada
Computational Hydraulics C A. Brebbia and A. J. Ferrante The Butterworth Group, March 1983, £20, 1SBN 408011 53X This b o o k covers most aspects of fluid flow for engineers, with a strong bias towards methods of solution. Similar to
Computational Methods for the Solution of Engineering Problems, the b o o k presents computer programs written in F O R T R A N , for use in the solution of each major topic covered by the book. The first two chapters introduce the essential concepts of fluid flow in a way which is easily read and understood; the next two chapters cover most aspects of flow in pipes including two programs for the solution of pipe networks. In the authors' customary fashion the programs are neatly documented and are thoroughly tested. The similarities between the programs here and elsewhere serve only to reinforce one's understanding of the
250 Adv. Water Resources, 1983, Volume 6, December
finite element technique. Chapter 5 covers open channel flow in a brief but concise manner with more F O R T R A N code for the calculation of depth of flow. In Chapter 6 two computer programs for the solution of the Laplace equation are given - one using finite elements and the other using a more efficient and innovative technique using boundary elements. The final chapters cover the more advanced concepts of the Navier-Stokes equations and turbomachinery. In conclusion Computational Hydraulics is written in a very concise style which is also very readable, the advanced nature of the text being shi'ouded by the apparent ease with which it explains each topic.
Paul Tugwell
Programming Embedded Systems with Ada V. A. Downes and S. J. Goldsack The b o o k tries to approach ADA from two different directions and thus represents a compromise between a reference manual and a case-study. It seems fair to consider ADA a very important language simply because ANSI have adopted it - bear witness to the effect this has had upon F O R T R A N and COBOL. However, it would be bold indeed to suggest that ADA could achieve a similar acceptance in as many years. The introductory chapters provide an interesting history from an outside viewpoint in a very clear, readable style, which I would wholeheartedly recommend be read by anyone wishing to gain a useful background knowledge of ADA. The authors choose a conceptually simple case-study to show the elements of the language which they develop with gathering momentum throughout the text. This is not intended as a reference volume and in fact it is not possible to use it as one. However, the early examples are very easy to follow and show clearly how to make the most of this powerful language. The latter stages of the b o o k are more complex and lengthy examples are required and probably examined by the most dedicated of readers, no doubt the same readers that answer the rather indulgent end-ofchapter questions. Without ever being boring, this book allows each reader to read as far as they may and still feel that they have learned to write superior programs, in addition to understanding ADA, for ADA as a concept forces even the unwilling programmer along the route modular error-free code.
Paul Tugwell Computational Mechanics, Ashurst, Southampton, UK
NEW BOOKS Informatics in Structural Engineering Proceedings - IABSE Workshop, Bergamo, 1982 IABSE Reports, Vol. 40, 3 9 6 p p . , April 1983, ISBN 3 85748 038 6 In earlier Workshops dealing with this subject (1978 and 1980), most papers were concerned with 'structural analysis' while in the 1982 Workshop more interest was shown in CAD and CAM, as well as microcomputers and computer graphics. Even if it were possible that an almost complete automation of the design process could be realized within the next 10 years, this would only be achieved
through successive steps in the various phases of the design activity. Papers and discussions presented in these Proceedings are a contribution in this direction. Thirty-one papers were contributed with the following themes: New applications of informatics in the construction industry; Impact of new hardware and software technology; Technical and legal responsibility associated with structural computations; Quality assurance procedures; Education and computer based structural analysis and design.
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis and Adina Edited by K. J. Bathe Pergamon Press, 'June ISBN 0 08 0305660
1983, 9 2 9 p p . ,
£58.00/$104.00,
The objective of the ADINA Conferences is to contribute to this continuing education process. In these conferences a number of valuable papers are presented on the usage of the ADINA system that provide the focal point for in-depth discussions of current state-of-the-art modeling and solution of complex problems. The reason for concentrating on the use of one finite element program system is to give a c o m m o n basis of interest and understanding to the conference participants. However, many experiences discussed are quite general and should be of interest to most finite element researchers and practitioners. This volume contains the papers presented at the Fourth ADINA Conference.
A text for students of civil engineering, which exposes the reader t o the concept and methods of systems analysis and design. These ideas are illustrated by means of problem types likely to be encountered in practice, and emphasize the full range of socioeconomic factors which have a bearing on the solution of multidisciplinary problems. The final chapter is devoted to a small number of case studies and worked examples. This serves to illustrate the general methodology of problem solving and the selection of the appropriate techniques of optimization. In order to allow meaningful examples in mathematical programming to. be illustrated and studied by the student, a number of computer subroutines are provided in the Appendix, with brief documentation. These subroutines have been Selected to be compatible with instructional goals and to encourage discrimination by the user in the use of ready-made software, but are sufficiently versatile to find application in practical problems.
Operation of Complex Water Systems Edited by E. Guggino, G. Rossi and D. Hendricks Martinus Nijhoff Publishers B, February 1983, 504pp., US $69.50, ISBN 90-247-2797-9 Over the past 50 years the water systems in many regions of the world have reached a mature state of development. Such state is characterized by full appropriation of the water resources and a high level of complexity with respect to the supporting physical systems and institutions. This b o o k deals with approaches for describing, planning, and practice within the context of complex water systems. The chapters cover a wide spectrum of topics, including groundwater, water quality, institutions, costsharing, reservoir operation, international negotiations, etc. This is done using the themes of systems analysis, operatiOns research, simulation modeling, descriptions of practices and case studies. The chapters have been written by 31 experienced water professionals from both academic and practice backgrounds. Their chapters deal with both theory and practice of operation, management, and planning of complex water systems.
Fundamental Concepts in the Numerical Solution of Differential Equations J. F. Botha and G. F. Pinder John Wiley, September 1983, 2 2 4 p p . , ISBN 0471 87546 5
$33.20/£23.70,
This book presents numerical methods for solving differential equations encountered in science and engineering. It is a quick, easy reference for finite difference, finite element, collocation, and boundary element methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equations. It provides the essential elements of each method and avoids detailed methodology of specific topical areas. It is extensively illustrated and includes problems and exercises.
International Directory of Engineering Analysts Edited by C.A. Brebbia Computational Mechanics Centre is an Institution dedicated to the development of advanced engineering techniques and the dissemination of computer technology. Some of these activities take the form of training or consultancies services and require the prompt identification of international experts in a particular field of engineering analysis. This directory is the result of trying to identify those experts. Although other reference books are available to the engineering profession, the field of analysis is not properly covered in any of them. The Editor feels that the compilation of so many distinguished names with a clear identification of their major interests, constitutes an important service to the engineering community.
ISBN 0 905451 17 1 price £33.00 Publication in August 1983
CIVIL PUBLICATIONS
Civil Engineering Systems Analysis and Design A. A. Smith, R. I4/.Lewis and E. Hinton John Wiley, September 1983, ISBN 0471 90059 1 (cloth)
520pp.,
$44.00/£22.00,
Adv. Water Resources, 1983, Volume 6, December
251
David C L. Lam National WaterResearch, Ontario, Canada
Computational Hydraulics C A. Brebbia and A. J. Ferrante The Butterworth Group, March 1983, £20, 1SBN 408011 53X This b o o k covers most aspects of fluid flow for engineers, with a strong bias towards methods of solution. Similar to
Computational Methods for the Solution of Engineering Problems, the b o o k presents computer programs written in F O R T R A N , for use in the solution of each major topic covered by the book. The first two chapters introduce the essential concepts of fluid flow in a way which is easily read and understood; the next two chapters cover most aspects of flow in pipes including two programs for the solution of pipe networks. In the authors' customary fashion the programs are neatly documented and are thoroughly tested. The similarities between the programs here and elsewhere serve only to reinforce one's understanding of the
250 Adv. Water Resources, 1983, Volume 6, December
finite element technique. Chapter 5 covers open channel flow in a brief but concise manner with more F O R T R A N code for the calculation of depth of flow. In Chapter 6 two computer programs for the solution of the Laplace equation are given - one using finite elements and the other using a more efficient and innovative technique using boundary elements. The final chapters cover the more advanced concepts of the Navier-Stokes equations and turbomachinery. In conclusion Computational Hydraulics is written in a very concise style which is also very readable, the advanced nature of the text being shi'ouded by the apparent ease with which it explains each topic.
Paul Tugwell
Programming Embedded Systems with Ada V. A. Downes and S. J. Goldsack The b o o k tries to approach ADA from two different directions and thus represents a compromise between a reference manual and a case-study. It seems fair to consider ADA a very important language simply because ANSI have adopted it - bear witness to the effect this has had upon F O R T R A N and COBOL. However, it would be bold indeed to suggest that ADA could achieve a similar acceptance in as many years. The introductory chapters provide an interesting history from an outside viewpoint in a very clear, readable style, which I would wholeheartedly recommend be read by anyone wishing to gain a useful background knowledge of ADA. The authors choose a conceptually simple case-study to show the elements of the language which they develop with gathering momentum throughout the text. This is not intended as a reference volume and in fact it is not possible to use it as one. However, the early examples are very easy to follow and show clearly how to make the most of this powerful language. The latter stages of the b o o k are more complex and lengthy examples are required and probably examined by the most dedicated of readers, no doubt the same readers that answer the rather indulgent end-ofchapter questions. Without ever being boring, this book allows each reader to read as far as they may and still feel that they have learned to write superior programs, in addition to understanding ADA, for ADA as a concept forces even the unwilling programmer along the route modular error-free code.
Paul Tugwell Computational Mechanics, Ashurst, Southampton, UK
NEW BOOKS Informatics in Structural Engineering Proceedings - IABSE Workshop, Bergamo, 1982 IABSE Reports, Vol. 40, 3 9 6 p p . , April 1983, ISBN 3 85748 038 6 In earlier Workshops dealing with this subject (1978 and 1980), most papers were concerned with 'structural analysis' while in the 1982 Workshop more interest was shown in CAD and CAM, as well as microcomputers and computer graphics. Even if it were possible that an almost complete automation of the design process could be realized within the next 10 years, this would only be achieved
through successive steps in the various phases of the design activity. Papers and discussions presented in these Proceedings are a contribution in this direction. Thirty-one papers were contributed with the following themes: New applications of informatics in the construction industry; Impact of new hardware and software technology; Technical and legal responsibility associated with structural computations; Quality assurance procedures; Education and computer based structural analysis and design.
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis and Adina Edited by K. J. Bathe Pergamon Press, 'June ISBN 0 08 0305660
1983, 9 2 9 p p . ,
£58.00/$104.00,
The objective of the ADINA Conferences is to contribute to this continuing education process. In these conferences a number of valuable papers are presented on the usage of the ADINA system that provide the focal point for in-depth discussions of current state-of-the-art modeling and solution of complex problems. The reason for concentrating on the use of one finite element program system is to give a c o m m o n basis of interest and understanding to the conference participants. However, many experiences discussed are quite general and should be of interest to most finite element researchers and practitioners. This volume contains the papers presented at the Fourth ADINA Conference.
A text for students of civil engineering, which exposes the reader t o the concept and methods of systems analysis and design. These ideas are illustrated by means of problem types likely to be encountered in practice, and emphasize the full range of socioeconomic factors which have a bearing on the solution of multidisciplinary problems. The final chapter is devoted to a small number of case studies and worked examples. This serves to illustrate the general methodology of problem solving and the selection of the appropriate techniques of optimization. In order to allow meaningful examples in mathematical programming to. be illustrated and studied by the student, a number of computer subroutines are provided in the Appendix, with brief documentation. These subroutines have been Selected to be compatible with instructional goals and to encourage discrimination by the user in the use of ready-made software, but are sufficiently versatile to find application in practical problems.
Operation of Complex Water Systems Edited by E. Guggino, G. Rossi and D. Hendricks Martinus Nijhoff Publishers B, February 1983, 504pp., US $69.50, ISBN 90-247-2797-9 Over the past 50 years the water systems in many regions of the world have reached a mature state of development. Such state is characterized by full appropriation of the water resources and a high level of complexity with respect to the supporting physical systems and institutions. This b o o k deals with approaches for describing, planning, and practice within the context of complex water systems. The chapters cover a wide spectrum of topics, including groundwater, water quality, institutions, costsharing, reservoir operation, international negotiations, etc. This is done using the themes of systems analysis, operatiOns research, simulation modeling, descriptions of practices and case studies. The chapters have been written by 31 experienced water professionals from both academic and practice backgrounds. Their chapters deal with both theory and practice of operation, management, and planning of complex water systems.
Fundamental Concepts in the Numerical Solution of Differential Equations J. F. Botha and G. F. Pinder John Wiley, September 1983, 2 2 4 p p . , ISBN 0471 87546 5
$33.20/£23.70,
This book presents numerical methods for solving differential equations encountered in science and engineering. It is a quick, easy reference for finite difference, finite element, collocation, and boundary element methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equations. It provides the essential elements of each method and avoids detailed methodology of specific topical areas. It is extensively illustrated and includes problems and exercises.
International Directory of Engineering Analysts Edited by C.A. Brebbia Computational Mechanics Centre is an Institution dedicated to the development of advanced engineering techniques and the dissemination of computer technology. Some of these activities take the form of training or consultancies services and require the prompt identification of international experts in a particular field of engineering analysis. This directory is the result of trying to identify those experts. Although other reference books are available to the engineering profession, the field of analysis is not properly covered in any of them. The Editor feels that the compilation of so many distinguished names with a clear identification of their major interests, constitutes an important service to the engineering community.
ISBN 0 905451 17 1 price £33.00 Publication in August 1983
CIVIL PUBLICATIONS
Civil Engineering Systems Analysis and Design A. A. Smith, R. I4/.Lewis and E. Hinton John Wiley, September 1983, ISBN 0471 90059 1 (cloth)
520pp.,
$44.00/£22.00,
Adv. Water Resources, 1983, Volume 6, December
251