Involutions of polynomially parametrized surfaces

We provide an algorithm for detecting the involutions leaving a surface defined by a polynomial parametrization invariant. As a consequence, the symmetry axes, symmetry planes and symmetry center of the surface, if any, can be determined directly from the parametrization, without computing or making use of the implicit representation. The algorithm is based on the fact, proven in the paper, that any involution of the surface comes from an involution of the parameter space (the real plane, in our case); therefore, by determining the latter, the former can be found. The algorithm has been implemented in the computer algebra system Maple 17. Evidence of its efficiency for moderate degrees, examples and a complexity analysis are also given

On the degree of the polynomial defining a planar algebraic curves of constant width

In this paper, we consider a family of closed planar algebraic curves $\mathcal{C}$ which are given in parametrization form via a trigonometric polynomial $p$. When $\mathcal{C}$ is the boundary of a compact convex set, the polynomial $p$ represents the support function of this set. Our aim is to examine properties of the degree of the defining polynomial of this family of curves in terms of the degree of $p$. Thanks to the theory of elimination, we compute the total degree and the partial degrees of this polynomial, and we solve in addition a question raised by Rabinowitz in \cite{Rabi} on the lowest degree polynomial whose graph is a non-circular curve of constant width. Computations of partial degrees of the defining polynomial of algebraic surfaces of constant width are also provided in the same way.Comment: 13 page

A Cubic Surface of Revolution

We develop a direct and elementary (calculus-free) exposition of the famous cubic surface of revolution x^3+y^3+z^3-3xyz=1.12 pages. We have added a second elementary proof that the surface is of revolution.Comment: We12 pages. We have added a second elementary proof that the surface is of revolution. We have added a two proofs of a special case of the Salmon-Cayley theorem that every cubic surface has twenty-seven lines, a section on the singularities of cubic surfaces and material on the general problem of rational points on a cubic surfac

Stress Interference in Axisymmetric Torsion of a Transeversely Isotropic Body

An unbounded transversely isotropic body of revolution containing two spheroidal cavities is subjected to torsion about its axis of elastic symmetry, which coincides with its axis of revolution. At large' distances from the cavities the elastic field approaches the Saint-Venant solution for the torsion of a circular cylinder. The elasticity solution is obtained in series form and numerical results presented for the case of two spherical cavities. Of primary interest is the degree of stress interference between the. two perturbations, as a function of the spacing of the cavities and the values of the elastic constants.Air Force Office of Scientific Research Grant No. AFOSR 82-004