Multi-body dynamics: historical evolution and application

The historical developments in the discipline of engineering dynamics are b riefly reviewed, with attention paid to the formulation and solution of the dynamic behaviour of multi-body systems. It is shown that the dynamic char acteristics of practical multi-body systems are dependent upon the interact ions of many physical phenomena that can induce, restrain or constrain moti on of parts. The long process of understanding and formulating the physics of multi-body motions, in some cases with pioneering contributions centurie s old, together with continual refinements in numerical techniques and enha nced computing power has resulted in the solution of quite complex and prac tical engineering problems. Linking the historical developments to the fund amental physical phenomena and their interactions, the paper presents solut ions to two complex multi-body dynamic problems. The practical implications of the approach in design of these systems are highlighted.