The aim of this book is to take the reader on a concentrated tour of some of the central issues of non-linear modeling and analysis of structures and solids. Traditionally, the non-linear theories of solids have been treated in books on continuum mechanics, while the questions of analysis have formed the focus of books on finite element techniques. The idea of the present book is to place the emphasis on modeling with a view to its numerical implementation right from the outset. Two guiding principles have determined the main style of the book: the story should be told in the form of concentrated chapters, each giving the central ideas of a specific aspect such as ‘finite rotations’ or ‘elasto-plastic solids’, and the reader should have the possibility of getting a feel for the numerical implementation by access and use of simple high-level implementations of the basic algorithms. A text based on these principles cannot provide exhaustive coverage, but aims at giving an interesting introduction to the basic ideas, which can then be studied elsewhere in greater detail as needed. It is hoped that the combination of a concise theoretical presentation in plain language supported by specific algorithms will make the text of interest to graduate students as well as professionals.

The book contains nine chapters: a brief introductory chapter setting the scene by use of elementary arguments, four chapters on structures, two chapters on non-linear deformation and material behavior of solids, and finally two chapters on numerical techniques for non-linear quasi-static and dynamic analysis.