Review and selection of methods for structural reliability analysis

To select a method for analyzing structural reliability problems, including pptimization under reliability constraints, a literature survey was performed. In this review the most frequently used and most generally applicable methods are described. An extensive list of references is included. The methods described here are compared on the basis of available information in the literature, and not on experience gained with these methods. The criteria for comparison are: - numerical efficiency - accuracy - general applicability For structural optimization under reliability constraints numerical efficiency is especially important. This is because multiple so-called limit states generally have to be evaluated at each analysis step. The method that looks most promising with respect to the above criteria is the Galerkin based response surface method. It is both efficient, due to the explicit nature of the response surface, and accurate due to the rigorous mathematical basis. Finally, an example of a beam with random flexural rigidity is analyzed using this method. Although no structural optimization is done in this example, the choice of method seems justified