Selected Papers from the 13th International Symposium on Applied Electromagnetics and Mechanics: ISEM 07, Michigan State University, USA

This volume of contains selected papers that were presented at the 13th International Symposium on Applied Electromagnetics and Mechanics (ISEM 2007). As in past years, ISEM 2007 was focused on basic science, early engineering developments and the application of emerging technologies to electromagnetics and mechanics. This publication covers a variety of topics including electromagnetic devices, sensors and actuators, smart materials, numerical modeling and optimization, and biomedical engineering. The purpose is to provide a forum for exchanging ideas and to discuss recent developments and results. Also, there is a special section on maintenance engineering. This section focuses on structural safety evaluation practices in the nuclear power industry covering topics such as inspection techniques, maintenance and plant life extension practices, and educational programs for training personnel and examples of international collaboration in this regard. These topics are particularly relevant in the context of renewed worldwide interest in designing and building a new generation of power plants. New designs should follow practices that address important issues of inspectability and maintainability.