This volume presents 40 original papers on recent advances in several topics in engineering mechanics presented at The Theodore Y-T Wu Symposium on Engineering Mechanics: A celebration of Professor Wu's scientific contributions for his 80th birthday. The distinguished contributors include several members of the National Academy of Engineers and the topics cover nonlinear water waves, swimming and flying in nature, biomechanics, data analysis methodology, and propulsion hydrodynamics. The papers honor the significant accomplishments of Professor Wu in Engineering Science at Caltech, particularly in the areas of nonlinear waves, hydrodynamics, biomechanics and wave-structure interaction. They review the present state of the art of engineering mechanics, and chart the future of the field from the viewpoint of civil engineering, biomechanics, geophysics, mechanical engineering, naval architecture, ocean, and offshore engineering. The primary purpose of this book is to provide guidance and inspiration for those interested in continuing to advance engineering mechanics into the 21st century.
To quote Professor Wu: "The value of a book publication lies in disseminating new knowledge attained with effort and dedication from all those who participate, and in having the useful results within ready reach of students and researchers actively working in the field."