(Nov/03 draft, forthcoming in " Pacific Philosophical Quarterly " , comments to [email protected]) abstract In this paper I argue that questions about the semantics of rigid designation are commonly and illicitly run together with distinct issues, such as questions about the metaphysics of essence and questions about the theoretical legitimacy of the possible-worlds framework. I discuss in depth t...

We propose a method for dual-arm manipulation of rigid objects, subject to external disturbance. The problem is formulated as a Cartesian impedance controller within a projected inverse dynamics framework. We use the constrained component of the controller to enforce contact and the unconstrained controller to accomplish the task with a desired 6DOF impedance behaviour. Furthermore, the propose...

In this paper, we propose a new physically based model for the real-time animation of hangings, which not only greatly speeds up the rendering, but also maintains visually appealing results. Our simplified model is represented as a grid object composed of mass points connected by semi-rigid rods, whose behavior is governed by non-rigid dynamics. The longitudinal (vertical) and latitudinal (hori...

We study the Lyapunov instability of a three-dimensional fluid composed of rigid diatomic molecules by molecular dynamics simulation. We use center-of-mass coordinates and angular variables for the configurational space variables. The spectra of Lyapunov exponents are obtained for 32 rigid diatomic molecules interacting through the Weeks-Chandler-Andersen potential for various bond lengths and ...

Steady state axisymmetric deformations of a homogeneous, isotropic, compressible and rigid perfectly plastic target being penetrated by a rigid cylindrical penetrator with a hemispherical nose are studied by the finite element method. The steady state is reached with respect to an observer situated on the penetrator nose and moving with it. Tillotson’s equation, restricted to mechanical deforma...

Experimental data on the average mass transfer liquid film coefficient (kL) in an aerated stirred tank are presented. Liquid media used were tap water, electrolyte solutions and water with controlled addition of tensioactive material. Values of kL range from those expected for bubbles with a mobile surface to those expected for rigid bubbles. These data are quantitatively interpreted in terms o...