Failure Definition for Structural Reliability Assessment

This study provides methodologies for defining failure for reliability-based, marine structural design and analysis. Structural reliability methods allow the prediction of an occurrence likelihood for a particular event of interest (for example, structural failure), allowing the designer to limit the probability of undesirable events. Changes to the traditional serviceability failure definitions are not possible without addressing the costs associated with the failures, either subjectively or objectively. A framework is provided by which this may be accomplished in the future. This study begins with a review and description of structural reliability methodologies as they have been applied to ship structure. Uncertainty types are then explored for information and tools used in a reliability prediction. Types of failure modes are described as reported in literature. These types are then expanded upon to establish classes of failure modes, leading to a methodology for formulating the range of failure definitions. Failure definition examples are provided for the hull girder and structural components at both the ultimate and serviceability types of failure. Finally, recommendations are made to provide guidance on applications and future research in this topic area.Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Div Bethesda is the author of 'Failure Definition for Structural Reliability Assessment', published 2000 under ISBN 9781423522591 and ISBN 1423522591.