An approach to uncertainty in probabilistic assignments with application to vibro-acoustic problems

In this paper a novel imprecise probability description is applied to vibro-acoustic problems in engineering. Frequently little data is available concerning the variability of the key input parameters required for a predictive analysis. This has led to widespread use of several uncertainty descriptions. The hybrid Finite Element/Statistical Energy Analysis (FE/SEA) approach to the analysis of vibro-acoustic systems is based on subdividing a system into: (i) SEA components which incorporate a non-parametric model of uncertainty and (ii) FE components with parametric uncertainty. This approach, combined with the Laplace asymptotic method, allows the evaluation of the failure probability. A novel strategy for establishing bounds on the failure probability when an imprecise probability model (based on expressing the probability density function of a random variable in the form of a maximum entropy distribution with bounded parameters) is employed is presented. The approach is illustrated by application to a built-up plate system