Introduction

Modern developments in Structural Dynamics focus on a realistic modeling of loading as well as structural and material parameters. Naturally this implies the consideration of the statistical uncertainties involved in most of the problems encountered in structural mechanics. It is a well known fact that the so-called deterministic analysis utilizes selectively only part of the available information on the parameters involved. In other words only representative (e.g. so-called minimum or maximum) values are used. Consequently, modern methods of structural dynamics may be considered as part of an effort of information processing, where, based on applicable mechanical models the entire spectrum of values — known or estimated — of certain parameters are utilized. This, of course, requires on one hand the development of sophisticated concepts, mechanical and probabilistic models, and on the other hand of new, efficient computational procedures. In this context it is important to stress the fact that the increase in sophistication of the load models must not be traded off by simplifying the mechanical models. This is even more important when solutions to practical, i.e. real world problems have to be developed. An additional advantage is the fact that the analysis is consistent in the sense that load, mechanical and safety analysis is carried out, at least approximately, at the same level of sophistication. This generally can certainly not be claimed for “deterministic” analyses. Most important, however, the increased effort which is required to carry out this more realistic analysis provides a quantitative information on the structural reliability or risk of failure.