Abstract
This paper presents a methodology for analyzing structures with random stress-strain behavior. Uncertainties in the stress-strain curve of a structure are simulated by letting a small number of engineering parameters which describe the stress-strain curve be random. Certain constraints are imposed on the engineering parameters in order to have a physically realizable material. A general procedure to handle correlation among the stress-strain parameters has also been developed.
This methodology has been integrated into the NESSUS (Numerical Evaluation of Stochastic Structures Under Stress) probabilistic structural analysis system. With this system, probabilistic finite element analysis of structures with random stress-strain behavior can be analyzed in an accurate, automated fashion.
An example problem is presented to demonstrate the capabilities of the code. The problem analyzed is that of a pressure vessel fabricated with a material exhibiting random stress-strain behavior.
