Structural Engineering and Mechanics

Volume 47, Number 3, 2013, pages 307-329

DOI: 10.12989/sem.2013.47.3.307

Exact stochastic solution of beams subjected to delta-correlated loads

G. Falsone and D. Settineri

Abstract

The bending problem of Euler-Bernoulli discontinuous beams is dealt with, in which the discontinuities are due to the loads and eventually to essential constrains applied along the beam axis. In particular, the loads are modelled as random delta-correlated processes acting along the beam axis, while the ulterior eventual discontinuities are produced by the presence of external rollers applied along the beam axis. This kind of structural model can be considered in the static study of bridge beams. In the present work the exact expression of the response quantities are given in terms of means and variances, thanks to the use of the stochastic analysis rules and to the use of the generalized functions. The knowledge of the means and the variances of the internal forces implies the possibility of applying the reliability B-method for verifying the beam.

Key Words

Euler-Bernoulli beam; delta-correlated concentrated loads; generalized functions; reliability B-method

Address

G. Falsone and D. Settineri : Dipartimento di Ingegneria Civile, Universita di Messina, C.da Di Dio, 98166 Messina, Italy