Mindlin

In the context of solid mechanics, Mindlin typically refers to Raymond D. Mindlin (1906-1987), an American engineer and physicist renowned for his contributions to the fields of elasticity, vibrations, and piezoelectricity.

Specifically, the term "Mindlin" is often associated with the following:

• Mindlin Plate Theory (Mindlin-Reissner Plate Theory): A theory that extends the classical Kirchhoff-Love plate theory by accounting for transverse shear deformation. This makes it more accurate for thicker plates where shear deformation becomes significant. Unlike Kirchhoff-Love theory, Mindlin plate theory does not assume that normals to the mid-surface remain normal after deformation. Instead, it introduces an independent rotation variable for the normal. This leads to more complex but more accurate solutions, especially for higher-frequency vibrations or impact problems.

• Mindlin's Solution (Mindlin's Problem): A solution to the problem of determining the stress distribution within an elastic half-space caused by a concentrated force acting at a point below the surface. This solution is fundamental in geomechanics and soil mechanics, providing a basis for understanding stress propagation in soil and other materials.

• Piezoelectric Materials: Mindlin made significant contributions to the understanding of the behavior of piezoelectric materials, particularly in the context of resonators and transducers. His work helped to develop accurate models for analyzing and designing piezoelectric devices.

In summary, "Mindlin" frequently denotes concepts or theories related to the work of Raymond D. Mindlin, particularly in areas related to plate theory, elasticity, and piezoelectricity. Understanding the context is crucial to interpreting the precise meaning of the term.