Markov Decision Processes in Structural Optimization
Initial structural design and its associated inspection and maintenance policies are modelled as a Markov Decision Process. This approach attempts to realistically capture the dynamics...
Reliability-Based Optimization Using Sequential Quadratic Programming
This paper proposes a method for reliability-based optimization of large structures using the Stochastic Finite Element Method, including both component and system reliabilities. In SFEM,...
Optimal Configuration for Fiber Reinforced Composites under Uncertainties of Material Properties and Loadings
Fiber reinforced composite structures could be designed by selecting proper fiber orientation in structures to suit specified desires for strength, stiffness or other mechanical properties....
Structural System Design under Uncertainty Via Pareto Optimization
Structural systems are generally designed under safety, serviceability and economy requirements. The single objective optimal design problem of both deterministic and nondeterministic...
An Exact Expression for the Distribution of Linear Combinations of Uniform Random Variables
Structural dynamic analysis have often in the past relied on the assumption that the system under consideration is well known ahd have been associated the unpredictability of the response...
Reliability Analysis of Plates with Initial Deflection by Entropy Model
Reliability analysis of postbuckling strength is discussed on rectangular plates with initial deflections whose statistical mechanism is estimated by the maximum entropy criteria. Assuming...
Pre-Test Selection of Static Force and Displacement Measurement Locations for Damage Assessment
An incomplete set of static force and displacement measurements are used for parameter identification of linear elastic structures at the element level. Measurement locations and the level...
Parameter Estimation in Complex Linear Structures
We present a new parameter estimation method which simultaneously computes element constitutive parameters and unmeasured displacements of finite element models from measured static responses....
Bridge Overloading Criteria
Considerable concern is being expressed by the public and government agencies over the deteriorating state of the country's infrastructure. At the same time, there is a general feedling...
A Multiple Presence Load Model for Bridges
This paper utilises weigh-in-motion data to simulate multi-lane traffic crossing short span multiple-lane bridges. In this manner the reduction factors for a multiple lane bridge are derived....
Stabilizing Drop Structure by Drainage Modifications
East Drain Terminal Drop Structure is located in East Drain, an open toe drain of Palmetto Bend Dam, in the tide water area of south Texas. The drop structure was threatened by piping...
Retention Parameter Estimates for Curve Number Runoff Procedure
A technique is developed for computing estimates and associated probabilities of the retention parameter S in the Soil Conservation Service curve number runoff procedure. This technique...
Calculation of Runoff from Rainfall Using NURP Data
Peak runoff flows and flood hydrographs are important elements in the design of drainage and flood-protection structures. The validity of methods for predicting peak flow from rainfall...
Design of Latticed Steel Transmission Structures
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A Monumental Task
The geotechnical consultants, structural engineer and contractor combined to overcome difficult soils, underground subway structures and buried utilities when building the foundations...
Taming Tornado Alley
Some structures�such as nuclear power plants�need complete protection from tornadoes regardless of the high costs of design and construction. Public facilities need protection too, but...
New Cruise Terminal for San Francisco
A new international Cruise Terminal is being developed at Pier 30-32 in San Francisco, to replace present inadequate facilities at Pier 35. The Cruise Terminal will be developed as part...
On-Off Terminal Ship-to-Rail Transfer
The intermodal situation of U.S. ports is still evolving, and port planners will be facing difficult decisions regarding IM Configurations. This article was intended to assist 'perplexed'...
Port of Portland's Berth 601 Floating Dock
The Port of Portland's facilities, being located on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, are subjected to extreme water level fluctuations. Over the years, the Port has used floating docks...
Analysis of a Wharf for a Container Terminal
A balanced combination of sophisticated computer programs was employed to model the soil strata, foundation and structure of a wharf for a new container terminal in the Port of Topolobampo,...
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