Perspectives in experimental solid mechanics

The role of experiments in the interaction with theory is reviewed in the c ontext of developing improved procedures in the evolutionary process of est ablishing engineering principles and design tools. The exceptional benefits derived from the increasing computational capabilities of the past decades are examined, as well as associated impediments to advancing mechanics obj ectives. Significant needs derive from these observations which command con tinuing or even increased commitments to supporting experimental efforts in mechanics. A summary of the salient methods in experimental research curre ntly available is supplemented by perceived additional instrumentation need s and related tools that are required to address problems associated with e merging technologies. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All right s reserved.