Inverse Problems Related to the Mechanics and Fracture of Solids and Structures

Abstract

Inverse problems have had a significant impact on various fields of science and engineering, and are attracting considerable attention of scientists and engineers. This paper presents an overview of the inverse problems arising in the fields of mechanics and fracture of solids and structures. A definition of inverse problems is given. As representative examples of inverse problems, outlines and inversion schemes are described for the electric-potential CT method for crack shape measurements, inverse scattering acoustic source characterization, estimation of stresses and strains, determination of forces, parameter identification of systems, and inverse design. Difficulties encountered in the inverse analyses are discussed and methods to solve the difficulties are described. Prospective developments in inverse problems are suggested.