Stochastic Structural Optimization

Stochastic Structural Optimization presents a comprehensive picture of robust design optimization of structures, focused on nonparametric stochastic-based methodologies. Good practical structural design accounts for uncertainty, for which reliability-based design offers a standard approach, usually incorporating assumptions on probability functions which are often unknown. By comparison, a worst-case approach with bounded support used as a robust design offers simplicity and a lower level of sensitivity. Linking structural optimization with these two approaches by a unified framework of non-parametric stochastic methodologies provides a rigorous theoretical background and high level of practicality. This text shows how to use this theoretical framework in civil and mechanical engineering practice to design a safe structure which accounts for uncertainty. Connects theory with practice in the robust design optimization of structures Advanced enough to support sound practical designs This book provides comprehensive coverage for engineers and graduate students in civil and mechanical engineering.