Updating Structural Reliability Based on Dynamic Test Data

Abstract

A Bayesian probabilistic methodology is integrated with probabilistic structural analysis tools for the purpose of monitoring the condition of a structure and updating the assessment of its lifetime reliability based on dynamic test data. Uncertainties from modeling errors are treated in addition to the uncertain excitation the structure will experience during the remainder of its lifetime. Both cases of identifiable and unidentifiable models are addressed. Methods for computing the structural reliability are developed for each case. Application of the methodology to a beam model of a single-span bridge with soil-structure interaction at the abutments, shows that the structural reliabilities computed before and after using "measured" dynamic data can differ significantly.

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