This book has been written to give a background to the essential theories and

applications of motor vehicle science. It is a suitable companion for readers fo

llowing
a wide range of motor vehicle courses, or as a text for automobile engineering
students not following a formal course. All the engineering concepts have a spec
ific
motor vehicle application wherever possible. The aim is not to present abstract
theories but to use realistic examples, useful to readers in their studies,
Engineering requires a certain knowledge of mathematics, but the mathematics
here has been kept as simple as possible without sacrificing understanding. It i
s
expected that as the reader works through the examples and problems, s/he will
develop a greater understanding of the mathematics required for engineering. Gre
at
care has been taken in the explanation and calculation of units, as units tend t
o cause
a great deal of confusion and mistakes in engineering, particularly mechanical
engineering with its wide range of quantities and multiple factors. The concept
of
unity brackets has been followed throughout the text, as this is the only method
that
ensures correct analysis of the units through the calculations. Chapter 1 is an
introduction to the book, covering the SI system, background mathematics and
advice on problem solving, particularly exam questions. Chapters 2-5 deal with
mechanics, both statics and dynamics. Chapter 6 covers several aspects of thermo
dynamics.
Chapter 7 is an introduction to control and instrumentation. Chapters 8
and 9 cover metals and electricity.
To help the reader develop a sound grasp of the principles covered there are man
y
diagrams, examples and problems as an aid to develop knowledge and understanding
.
Problem answers are shown at the end of the book.
I should like to thank Christine, Unzie and mum for their help and constructive
comments. Most of all thanks to Denise for all her support and patience.