Qualitative analysis of nonsmooth dynamics. A simple discrete system with unilateral contact and Coulomb friction (Q2802983)

Aside from the title, this is a book about friction -- specifically contact friction between bodies. The book presents a study of a broad range of friction physics and the modelling thereof. The book is primarily theoretical. Although there are numerous examples, for the most part these examples do not represent actual physical systems. The book is divided into seven chapters spanning a little over 200 pages. The chapters are preceded by a Preface and Introduction. (Unfortunately, the numbering of the chapters is incorrect since logically the Introduction should be Chapter 1 -- as is clear from the remarks at the end of the Introduction.) The first non-introductory chapter is devoted to friction modelling including nonlinearities. This is followed by a chapter converting the modelling into mathematical formulations. The next two chapters then look at solutions: equilibrium and stability. Nontrivial examples illustrate the complexity of the subject matter. The 5th and 6th chapters treat linear and nonlinear reactive forces respectively. The book concludes with a chapter on ``open problems'' and ``challenges''. In spite of the complexity and analytical difficulties inherent in the subject matter, the book is very well written and clear. The artwork is excellent. Unfortunately, the Bibliography is rather brief as is also the Index. The book is likely to be of greatest interest and use to researchers and graduate students working with friction related problems. Indeed, the clarity of the writing is likely to provide inspiration for students and researchers to take the state-of-the-art of the subject matter even further.