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A new analytic approach to obtain the complete solution for systems of delay differential equations (DDE) based on the concept of Lambert functions is presented. The similarity with the concept of the state transition matrix in linear ordinary differential equations enables the approach to be used for general classes of linear delay differential equations using the matrix form of DDEs. The solution is in the form of an infinite series of modes written in terms of Lambert functions. Stability criteria for the individual modes, free response, and forced response for delay equations in different examples are studied, and the results are presented. The new approach is applied to obtain the stability regions for the individual modes of the linearized chatter problem in turning. The results present a necessary condition to the stability in chatter for the whole system, since it only enables the study of the individual modes, and there are an infinite number of them that contribute to the stability of the system.

This engineering textbook is designed to introduce advanced control systems for vehicles, including advanced automotive concepts and the next generation of vehicles for ITS. For each automotive control problem considered, the authors emphasise the physics and underlying principles behind the control system concept and design. This is an exciting and rapidly developing field for which many articles and reports exist but no modern unifying text. An extensive list of references is provided at the end of each chapter for all the topics covered. It is currently the only textbook, including problems and examples, that covers and integrates the topics of automotive powertrain control, vehicle control, and intelligent transportation systems. The emphasis is on fundamental concepts and methods for automotive control systems, rather than the rapidly changing specific technologies. Many of the text examples, as well as the end-of-chapter problems, require the use of MATLAB and/or SIMULINK.

Presented in this article is a review of manufacturing techniques and introduction of recon®gurable manufacturing systems; a new paradigm in manufacturing which is designed for rapid adjustment of production capacity and functionality, in response to new market conditions. A de®nition of recon®gurable manufacturing systems is outlined and an overview of available manufacturing techniques, their key drivers and enablers, and their impacts, achievements and limitations is presented. A historical review of manufacturing from the point-of-view of the major developments in the market, technology and sciences issues affecting manufacturing is provided. The new requirements for manufacturing are discussed and characteristics of recon®gurable manufacturing systems and their key role in future manufacturing are explained. The paper is concluded with a brief review of speci®c technologies and research issues related to RMSs.