Mag Smooth

The dream of "antigrav" technology has haunted several generations of scientists and science fiction buffs alike, and while magnetic levitation (Mag-Lev) does not conform precisely to these visions, it does offer one of the most exciting capabilities demonstrated by superconducting materials. Yet, even among otherwise well-informed scientists and engineers, there is a general lack of understanding of the principles and technological requirements of Mag-Lev. This book discusses the basic physics and technology of active and passive superconducting bearings and Mag-Lev transportation. Special emphasis is given to the new high-temperature superconductors discovered in 1987 and to an understanding of the interplay of magnetics, mechanics, and dynamics necessary for Mag-Lev transportation. Author Francis C. Moon takes an empirical approach, relying more on experiment and phenomenology than formal theory. The presentation includes extensive figures and photos of Mag-Lev devices, including the German and Japanese Mag-Lev trains, as well as diagrams of proposed U.S. Mag-Lev designs. It is also the first book to summarize results of recent U.S. research studies aimed at regaining the lead in Mag-Lev technologies. The only book of its kind, Superconducting Levitation is intended to inform and inspire physicists, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and students. Professor Moon believes that a broader spectrum of research is required for a greater understanding of the physics of Mag-Lev. He also wants to encourage the creation of new devices based on the use of magnetic devices and superconductors.

A comprehensive introduction to a wide variety of univariate and multivariate smoothing techniques for regression Smoothing and Regression: Approaches, Computation, and Application bridges the many gaps that exist among competing univariate and multivariate smoothingtechniques. It introduces, describes, and in some cases compares a large numberof the latest and most advanced techniques for regression modeling. Unlikemany other volumes on this topic, which are highly technical and specialized, this book discusses all methods in light of both computational efficiency and their applicability for real data analysis. Using examples of applications from the biosciences, environmental sciences, engineering, and economics, as well as medical research and marketing, thisvolume addresses the theory, computation, and application of each approach. A number of the techniques discussed, such as smoothing under shape restrictions or of dependent data, are presented for the first time in book form. Specialfeatures of this book include: Comprehensive coverage of smoothing and regression with software hints and applications from a wide variety of disciplines A unified, easy-to-follow format Contributions from more than 25 leading researchers from around the world More than 150 illustrations also covering new graphical techniques important for exploratory data analysis and visualization of high-dimensional problems Extensive end-of-chapter references For professionals and aspiring professionals in statistics, applied mathematics, computer science, and econometrics, as well as for researchers in the applied and social sciences, Smoothing and Regression is a unique and important new resourcedestined to become one the most frequently consulted references in the field.