Nonlinear dynamic response variability of frames with stochastic non-gaussian parameter uncertainty

Abstract eng:
In this paper, a novel approach is presented to investigate realistic problems of structures subjected to transient seismic actions. This approach is used to assess the nonlinear stochastic response of a 3-storey steel moment-resisting frame in the framework of Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) and translation process theory. The structure is modeled with a mixed fiber-based, beam-column element. The adopted formulation leads to the reduction of the computational cost required for the calculation of the element stiffness matrix, while increased accuracy compared to traditional displacement-based elements is achieved. The uncertain parameters of the problem are the Young modulus and the yield stress, both described by homogeneous non-Gaussian translation stochastic fields that vary along the element. The frame is subjected to natural seismic records that correspond to three levels of increasing seismic hazard as well as to spectrum-compatible artificial accelerograms. Under the assumption of a pre-specified power spectral density function of the stochastic fields that describe the two uncertain parameters, the response variability of the frame is computed using MCS. Moreover, a parametric investigation is carried out providing useful conclusions regarding the influence of the non-Gaussian distribution as well as of the correlation length of the stochastic fields on the dynamic response variability.

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