Théorie des corps déformables

TLDR: Cosserat and Hermann as mentioned in this paper discussed the kinematical and dynamical theories of the flexible line, the flexible surface, and the deformable three-dimensional medium in great detail.

Abstract: THE authors, who are well known by their writings on general elastic theory, here reprint in separate form an appendix contributed by them to M. Chwolson's “Traité de Physique.” The kinematical and dynamical theories of the flexible line, the flexible surface, and the deformable three-dimensional medium are discussed in turn in great detail. The dynamical standpoint adopted is that of the principle of action, which forms, in the authors' opinion, the only satisfactory basis for the “deductive” exposition of the subject. In each, case the most general form of the function representing the “action” is sought which is consistent with the necessary invariantive relations. This procedure is, of course, not altogether new, and an expert, turning over the pages, will recognise much that in one form or another is familiar to him. The treatment is necessarily somewhat abstract, and is i mathematically very elaborate, Cartesian, methods being followed throughout. To many readers the long train of general investigations, unrelieved by a single application, may prove deterrent; but the authors at all events claim that their procedure has never before been carried out so resolutely and completely, and may justly pride themselves on the mathematical elegance of their work. Apart from its other qualities, the treatise has a distinct value as a book of reference, and furnishes a whole arsenal of formulæ which may save trouble to future writers.Théorie des Corps déformables.By E. Cosserat F. Cosserat. Pp. vi + 226. (Paris: A. Hermann et Fils, 1909.) Price 6 francs.