| Abstract: | A general formulation of the minimum-weight optimization problem for indeterminate structures with random parameters is presented. The formulation enables the designer to specify maximum allowable probability of system failure and maximum allowable probabilities of occurrence of individual failure modes. All random parameters are characterized by their mean values and coefficients of variation, with the latter assumed to be amenable to realistic estimation at the outset. The standard deviations of response quantities are then obtained in a straightforward manner for use in the constraint equations, which generally resemble those for deterministic optimization problems. Several examples of truss and frame designs illustrate applications of the formulation. |
