This text explores the developments in geometric and product modelling, and their applications. In particular, it looks at the means by which product geometry emerges from the conceptual stages of design, and the use of geometric reasoning for applications downstream of design, including manufacture and assembly. Much existing design research is either totally geometry based or totally non-geometric, and the interface between the two areas is of great interest to industry, as well as being crucial for the successful development of integrated systems for design and manufacture. This interface is currently not well understood and the book attempts to make a contribution to its understanding. The following areas are amongst those addressed: computer-aided design and manufacture of mechanical products; computer integration of design and manufacturing; computational geometry; conceptual design and engineering tolerances; and assembly design and planning.

First published in 1980, Mugging as a Social Problem sets out to remedy the deficiency of serious research on mugging. The work is based on a random sample of over 1000 muggings which occurred within the Metropolitan Police District in the mid-1970s, and the author analyses the results not only in absolute and comparative terms but also against a background of social determinants such as ecology, deprivation and race. Dr. Pratt’s long-term solution is not novel: an all-round improvement in housing, employment and social conditions will eventually remove the circumstances which create muggers; but there are steps, he suggests, which can be taken in the short term to stop mugging by reducing opportunity. However, before any effective measures can be introduced, more facts are needed about the background, motives and methods of the typical mugger: it is just such facts that this study sets out to provide. This book will be of interest to students of sociology, law, urban studies and criminology.

"Menagerie" is:

""A beautiful abomination clothed in a skin of steel and silicon.""

""It's survival of the fittest, the way it should be. The way it has to be now.""

""And I was silent in the face of the Lord, as I had forgotten my other question.""

""He felt her passion coming through in waves, crashing against the shores of his paralyzed mind.""

""The bare wooden steps creaked and moaned as I slinked down, sliding along the right wall, penlight wavering uncontrollably.""

"Menagerie" is:

A hodgepodge of dreams and delusions, nightmares and fantasies. It's raw, passionate, obscene, and beautiful. It's a perfect nightmare for a grammar cop. It's all I feel fit to print, plus some.

"Menagerie" is:

Not intended for human consumption. May cause loss of superstition or foundation. Ask your doctor if there are any known interactions with other text-based drugs you are currently taking. Side effects may include anger, doubt, second-guessing, fear, pondering, and soul searching. Stop taking "Menagerie" if you experience multiple symptoms, as this could lead to enlightenment, which could be dangerous.