Reliability of Random Structural Systems and Load Space Reduction

Abstract

The reliability of redundant structural systems is computed in load space. The limit state curve is determined using a nonlinear structural analysis program, and system reliability is evaluated as load vectors are simulated and identified as being in the safe or unsafe region. For the case of random strength variables, a distribution function is associated with the limit state curve. Structures are examined as load space dimension is reduced from seven to either two or three. It is shown that a three‐dimensional load space formulation has the potential to provide a reasonable approximation of system reliability of structural systems.