This book is devoted to the theory of chaotic oscillations in mechanical systems. Detailed descriptions of the basic types of nonlinearity -- impacts and dry friction -- are presented. The properties of such behavior are discussed, and the numerical and experimental results obtained by the authors are presented.

The dynamic properties of systems described here can be useful in the proper design and use of mechanics where such behavior still creates problems.

This book will be very useful for anyone with a fundamental knowledge of nonlinear mechanics who is beginning research in the field.

This book reports on a novel approach for generating mechanical energy from different, external heat sources using the body of a typical piston engine with valves.