REVIEW -The Shock and Vibration Handbook was. first published in 1%1 'to bring together information concerning shock and vibration theory and application under one cover. As stated in the "Preface," the primary objective of the Handbook is to provide comprehensive coverage of the field of shock and vibration. True, but in 1,322 pages the Handbook covers too many topics to list here. However, they can be grouped into three broad areas: shock and vibration theory, instrumentation and measurement techniques, and design for shock and vibration.Each of the 44 chapters was written by one or two authors recognized as an authority in his field. Several of the authors are quite well known at various Naval Activities concerned with shock and vibration effects.This second edition is a major revision of the first edition published 16 years ago. Approximately half of the second edition is new or revised material. Most of the chapters dealing with applications (especially instrumentation and measurement techniques) have been updated, while those dealing with basic theory have been camed over without change from the first edition. In addition, some new chapters have been added, such as "Application of Digital Computers," while others whose importance has diminished, such as "Analog Methods of Analysis." or were of limited interest have been dropped. Unfortunately, two of the chapters deleted were of particular interest to naval engineers: "Shock and Vibration in Ships" and "Design of Blast Resistant Structures. " A very worthwhile feature of the Handbook is the extensive list of references at the end of each chapter. This is a significant aid to anyone who desires to delve deeper into any one particular topic.Since it is the nature of the Handbook to summarize rather than elucidate, the Shock and Vibration Handbook presupposes a knowledge of advanced engineering mathematics and of the shock and vibration field in general. The Handbook may have some general interest, but it is primarily designed for workers in the field of shock and vibration. Although not inexpensive at $32.50, it is a useful reference source and can be recommended for individual purchase by serious workers in the field.
REVIEWER -Mr. Harold Kohn gmduatedfrom Rutgers University in 1973 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Afler graduation, he went to work for the Naval Surface Weapons Center, Dahlgren Laboratory. In 1975. he trans-30 Naval Engineers Journal, August 1977 firred to the Naval Ship Engineering Center where he is presently employed in the Ship Survivabiriry OfJice. Unclerutanding Boat Design, by Edward S. Brewer, N.A., and Jim Betts: published for the Yacht Design Institute by Marine Publishing Co., Camden, ME, 1971, fourth printing 1975 (66 pps.; M.95).Reviewed by Lt. (J.G.) Kenneth M. Smith, Jr., USN REVIEW -Understanding Boat Design is intended to be a basic introduction for the boat buyer, amateur builder, and beginning yacht designer. As such, the book introduces the vocabulary and graphics used in the marine field. It seeks to implant in t...