Probabilistic characterization of linear truss structures with cracked members

In this paper a general method to study linear-elastic truss structures affected by uncertainties is presented. The formulation is simple and based on an approach recently proposed by Di Paola which is generalized to treat trusses with cracked members where the crack depth is uncertain. Following the same idea, the uncertainties are transformed into induced deformations on each bar element. The resultant method is shown to be an effective alternative to the standard simulation methods. A numerical test evidences an excellent performance, which promises a wide applicability of the new procedure also to more complex structures as, for example, frame structures.