Performance-Optimized Reliability Analysis of Structural Systems

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The objective is to develop practical procedures whereby characterization of limit state consequences can be incorporated into an analysis for reliability-constrained structural system optimization. Multiobjective mathematical programming will be used to identify the limit state surface for multiple, independently varying loads. The identification of consequence for each region of the limit surface, rather than simply the traditional "failure" or "success," will permit the performance/reliability tradeoff to be studied. For a ductile frame with randomness in both loads and moment capacities, a linear program efficiently produces failure mode characteristics. For this case, it is possible to associate discrete load space regions with individual failure modes, and to assess the extent of structural distress for each mode. Efficient methods of combining Monte Carlo directional simulation with mathematical programming, and especially linear programming, will be utilized to permit a comprehensive assessment of structural system reliability. The procedures developed in this project will permit improved safety and economy of structures by considering design of the structural system as an entire entity. Powerful mathematical techniques now accessible to structural engineers can be used to optimize the structure as a whole, taking into account the reliability of performance and limit state consequences.