An Efficient Algorithm for Second-Order Finite Element Reliability Analysis
A new, efficient algorithm for computing the principal curvatures of the limit-state surface at the design point, which are employed in second-order reliability analysis, is described....
An Adaptive Importance Sampling Strategy
An adaptive importance sampling scheme is presented. The scheme updates both the estimate of system failure probability and the importance sampling density. The sampling density used is...
Response Variability and Reliability of Stochastic Systems Using the Weighted Integral Method
After obtaining an exact expression of the stochastic stiffness matrix in terms of random variables called weighted integrals, the response variability and the safety index of stochastic...
Biomechanical Model of a Lumbar Intervertebral Joint?A System Approach
This study was conducted to determine the forces sustained by the lumbar ligaments under flexion-compression using a two-dimensional equilibrium model. The lumbar motion segment was modeled...
Normal and Tangential Contact of Layered Spheres as Models of Joint Contact
The causes of cracking in degenerating cartilage are examined using analytical models of layered elastic spheres in normal and tangential contact. Vertical surface and deep radial cracks...
A Two-Dimensional Model of Airbag Deployment
An interactive program was developed to simulate the unfolding and deploying process of a driver side airbag in the sagittal plane. The airbag was represented by a series of nodes. We...
Using a Linearized Yield Surface in Dynamic Analysis
This paper describes an application of the finite element method to dynamic analysis of systems which exhibit material nonlinearity. A time history approach is used with a central difference...
Time-Delayed Control of Nondispersive Continuous Systems
This paper deals with the noncollocated, time-delayed active point control of continuous systems. It considers systems of finite spatial extent which can be modelled by the undamped wave...
Spatial Coherence in the Chaotic Dynamics of Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Elastic Impact Oscillators
In this paper, we describe a method for estimating the number of degrees of freedom needed to adequately model nonlinear structural systems. We apply the method to the study of chaotic...
Experimental and Numerical Chaos in Continuous Systems: Two Case Studies
Motivated by recent numerical investigations according to which certain types of deep-water compliant offshore structures may experience undesirable chaotic motions, two types of experimental...
Adequacy of Statistical Linearization for Nonlinear Degrading Structural Systems
An investigation is carried out to examine the validity of current practice in using statistical linearization method for nonlinear degrading structures subject to random ground acceleration....
Stability Analysis of Nonlinear Frames
The second stiffness method for large deformation in-elastic stability analysis of frames is discussed. Displacement control methods for tracing the path beyond the limit point are presented....
Damage Tolerance of Composites
The damage tolerance issue in composites is driven by the requirement for and implementation of a structural integrity criterion for a structural system. A key element in the design philosophy...
Experimental Techniques to Study the Microstructure of Cement-Based Materials
Techniques to identify phases and changes in microstructure within cement paste, mortar, and concrete using a scanning electron microscope and image analysis system are described. Backscattered...
Inspection Goes High Tech
Many believe that rehabilitation of the existing infrastructure�not net construction�will dominate the 1990s. Therefore, accurate condition assessment is crucial, since public works agencies...
Hazardous Materials Data: A Federal Perspective
This paper discusses the evolution and current status of the Hazardous Materials Incident Report System (HMIRS) maintained by the Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) of...
Flows of Hazardous Materials Through States by Rail
This paper presents information on the tonnages of hazardous materials passing through each of the contiguous 48 states (and the District of Columbia) by rail. The quantities are estimated...
Issues in Developing Arizona's Hazmat Incident Reporting Program
The Arizona Division of Emergency Services (ADES), in cooperation with Arizona State University (ASU) - Center for Advanced Research in Transportation, and the Arizona Department of Transportation...
Developing a HazMat Incident Evaluation Program
This paper describes the Illinois Hazardous Materials Incident Evaluation Program. The history, development strategies, implementation, forms for reporting, screening and data input, and...
GIS Risk Analysis of Hazardous Materials Transport
The Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to assess the risks and vulnerability of transporting hazardous materials and wastes on the Arizona highway system. This paper discusses...
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