Nomography [antikvár]

PREFACE In science and technology, nomograms are recognized for ease of operation and for the time saved in the repeated solution of mathematical formulas. The type of nomogram known as the alignment chart has won much favor during the past two decades. Engineers and scientists should be trained sufficiently to understand the mathematical theory and design of nomograms. The material presented in this book is intended to provide a good working knowledge of the fundamental principles. Emphasis is placed upon the "geometric method" employed in the development of the theory for the design of alignment charts involving equations of three or more variables. Simple equations are solved by aUgnment charts consisting of straight-line scales, whereas more involved equations may necessitate the use of "grids," curved scales, and combinations of Cartesian co-ordinate charts with alignment charts. Once the theory is well understood, practical short-cuts are presented to reduce the time required to design a chart. Examples are given in the chapter "Practical Short-Cuts." The chapter on the use of determinants serves as an introduction to the "method of determinants" which has been well developed by such writers as d'Ocagne, Soreau, Hewes and Seward, and Allcock and Jones. The appendix contains practical examples of alignment charts used in the fields of engineering, production, and statistics. This book is an outgrowth of nomography courses offered for many years at both the University of Minnesota and the University of California. At present, one-semester, two-unit, elective courses are open for seniors in engineering, physics, chemistry, business administration, and education. Scientists and practicing engineers will find no difficulty in handling the material in this book, if they have not forgotten the elements of algebra and plane geometry and the use of logarithms. For those who may develop a keen desire to pursue further study in the fascinating field of Nomography the selected bibliography will provide adequate reference material.