228-0904 – Reliability of Structures (SABS)

The course is intended to deepen the knowledge of the theory of structures. Students are introduced to probabilistic approaches to the assessment of safety, serviceability and durability using basic knowledge of the theory of reliability, probability and computer technology.

In this subject, students learn theoretical background and practical information about probabilistic assessment of load-carrying structures. For that purpose, they should master the probability and structure reliability theories. The key feature of the probabilistic method is that it is possible to express variability of input quantities in a stochastic (probabilistic) form, for instance, by histograms. Unlike the applicable standards and procedures which are based on deterministic expression of input quantities (using a single value – a constant), the probabilistic methods provide more precise reliability assessment and improved safety for those who use the buildings and structures.

1. Melchers, R.E.: Structural Reliability Analysis and Prediction}. Second edition, John Wiley & Sons Ltd., England, 1999. (437 s) ISBN 0-471-98324-1. 2. TeReCo: Probabilistic Assessment of Structures using Monte Carlo Simulation, Background, Exercises and Software. Textbook and CD-ROM. ÚTAM AV ČR, Praha 2003. 2nd edition. ISBN 80-86246-19-1. 3. O. Ditlevsen and H.O. Madsen: Structural Reliability Methods, Technical University of Denmark, 2005.

1. FReET (Feasible Reliability Engineering Tool) - http://www.freet.cz/ 2. Simulation Based Reliability Assessment – SBRA - http://www.sbra-anthill.com/