Abstract
A description is presented for extending reliability analysis concepts from structural elements to structural systems. The aim is to develop techniques for calculating the reliability or probability of failure of complete structures. From a practical design standpoint one solution analyzed is the determination of partial safety factors. These are quantities by which the element safety factor should be changed to account for its presence in a structural assemblage so that the overall failure probability remains roughly equal to what is desired for the element. Consequences of failure must also be considered. Fundamental models of structural reliability of systems are described including determinate structures (weakest-link), indeterminate structures (fail-safe), and brittle members. Examples of solutions for reliability analysis and design are presented.

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