While the procedures developed in this thesis could be used in conjunction with a number of sequential multi-scale methods, the focus here is on the homogenization technique. As has been the case in traditional finite element applications of homogenization, one of the principal focuses in this thesis will be on the computation of macro scale constitutive parameters; but, in this case, these constitutive representations come from the atomistic calculations.

The thesis has four parts that develop various aspects of the theme of the work. The dissertation focuses on the following applications:

1. Problems involving mechanical loading of solids and structures under static load at zero temperature.

The focus is on creating multi-scale continuum/atomistic simulation methods which use the atomistic model to provide an improved material representation including the effects of material defects. This topic could be useful in modeling fracture and failure.

2. Computation of thermo-mechanical constitutive parameters at finite temperature conditions.

This procedure focuses on using the atomistic scale calculation to define constitutive parameters. It assumes that equilibrium conditions exist at the atomistic scale. It does not attempt to track, in a time history sense, the dynamics at the atomistic scale. It does require the solution of an atomistic free vibration problem with natural frequencies dependent on temperature. The procedure defines macroscopic thermo-mechanical constitutive parameters, like the specific heat and the coefficient of thermal expansion, as a function of temperature. These properties could be used directly in a macroscopic continuum finite element model which would be valid at the full range of temperatures.

3. Dynamic problems involving the simulation of the thermo-mechanical behavior of systems at finite temperature, with and without heat transfer.

This procedure focuses on using the atomistic scale calculation to define multi-scale, thermo-mechanical momentum and energy equations. It does attempt to track, in a time history sense, the dynamics at the atomistic scale. Energy equations are derived for both the scales based on first law of thermo-dynamics. Two types of application problems are used to demonstrate the theory. The first involves thermal stress analysis simulation in which the temperature has no time variability and, thus, no heat transfer occurs. The second involves simulations with time varying temperatures and include heat transfer effects.

4. Implicit time integrations algorithms for atomistic momentum equations that can be seamlessly coupled to macro models. \N]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=WOR200912011800193000.000.015 For more detailed information please visit the Spotlight website at - http://viterbi.usc.edu/students/undergrad/fye/spotlight.htm\

Dinner is provided.

RSVP to viterbi.studentservices@usc.edu with subject line: "RSVP for Spotlight on 11/17".]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=SEM200912021400150000.000.006 ABSTRACT:

A Bayesian network (BN) is a directed acyclic probabilistic graph encoding the interdependence between a set of random variables. In application to seismic risk assessment of infrastructure systems, the variables may represent uncertain demands or capacities, or the states of the system and its components. Upon entering evidence (observations) on one or more variables, this information propagates throughout the BN, thus providing an up-to-date probabilistic characterization of the system state as the available information evolves. The BN can be augmented with utility and decision nodes to provide a tool for optimal decision making under uncertain and evolving information.

This talk will demonstrate the usefulness of the BN methodology for risk assessment and management of infrastructure systems that are subject to earthquake hazard. An application to the proposed California High Speed Rail system will be presented. \N]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=WOR200912021215133000.000.015 http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=WOR200912082200170000.000.015 Fall Study Day will be held on Tuesday, Dec 8th in Ronald Tutor Hall.

•10am-1pm: \NStudy sessions will be held for: \NAME 201, BME 101, EE 150, Math 125, 126, 226, and Phys 151, 152.

Upper class study partners will be on hand to answer questions.

•1pm-5pm: \NStudy space available throughout second floor of RTH

•Snacks and care packages will be provided to participants.

Just come to the lobby of RTH with your books, notes, and a desire to study for finals.

Stop by VARC, CED, or the WIE office for more information! \N]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=SEM200912101400150000.000.006 Speaker: Dr. Geraldine Knatz, Executive Director, The Port of Los Angeles.

Women in Science & Engineering Seminar Speaker in Celebration of the WISE 10th Anniversary

Abstract:

From its early beginning as a merchant port serving the needs of Spanish traders, to what it is now – America's premier gateway for goods and services – the Port of Los Angeles has changed in many ways. Certainly, one of the major challenges is the precarious balancing act between expansion and environment. As the Port grew over the decades, so did its pollution. Lawsuits ensued, regulations changed and -- coupled with California's every-stringent criteria regarding coastal development of any kind -- the Port of Los Angeles was at an impasse between profits and pollution.

Which would ultimately win? Under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Geraldine Knatz, the answer is both. With her background in biology and environmental studies, coupled with a pragmatic view of how the world works financially, Dr. Knatz is leading the way to create a new era in major port operations where the needs of commerce go hand-in-hand with the needs of the environment. The result is a series of operational breakthroughs that are not only improving the regional environment, but are setting new standards for port operators the world over.

Dr. Knatz will discuss these "green growth" challenges first hand and detail the specific initiatives that are making the Port of Los Angeles a true success story.

]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=SEM201001240000000001.000.015 Undergraduate Viterbi students learn more about their personal leadership style, how to work in teams, and enjoy connecting with other Viterbi students in a fun, relaxed environment.

To learn more about KIUEL, visit the website at viterbi.usc.edu/KIUEL.]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=SEM201001240000000001.000.015 Undergraduate Viterbi students learn more about their personal leadership style, how to work in teams, and enjoy connecting with other Viterbi students in a fun, relaxed environment.

To learn more about KIUEL, visit the website at viterbi.usc.edu/KIUEL.]]> http://viterbi.usc.edu/cgi-bin/cal_make.pl?p1=SEM201001240000000001.000.015 Undergraduate Viterbi students learn more about their personal leadership style, how to work in teams, and enjoy connecting with other Viterbi students in a fun, relaxed environment.

To learn more about KIUEL, visit the website at viterbi.usc.edu/KIUEL.]]>