Stochastic Dynamics of Structures

In Stochastic Dynamics of Structures, Li and Chen present a unified view of the theory and techniques for stochastic dynamics analysis, prediction of reliability, and system control of structures within the innovative theoretical framework of physical stochastic systems. The authors outline the fundamental concepts of random variables, stochastic process and random field, and orthogonal expansion of random functions. Readers will gain insight into core concepts such as stochastic process models for typical dynamic excitations of structures, stochastic finite element, and random vibration analysis. Li and Chen also cover advanced topics, including the theory of and elaborate numerical methods for probability density evolution analysis of stochastic dynamical systems, reliability-based design, and performance control of structures.

Stochastic Dynamics of Structures presents techniques for researchers and graduate students in a wide variety of engineering fields: civil engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace and aeronautics, marine and offshore engineering, ship engineering, and applied mechanics. Practicing engineers will benefit from the concise review of random vibration theory and the new methods introduced in the later chapters.

"The book is a valuable contribution to the continuing development of the field of stochastic structural dynamics, including the recent discoveries and developments by the authors of the probability density evolution method (PDEM) and its applications to the assessment of the dynamic reliability and control of complex structures through the equivalent extreme-value distribution."
—A. H-S. Ang, NAE, Hon. Mem. ASCE, Research Professor, University of California, Irvine, USA

"The authors have made a concerted effort to present a responsible and even holistic account of modern stochastic dynamics. Beyond the traditional concepts, they also discuss theoretical tools of recent currency such as the Karhunen-Loeve expansion, evolutionary power spectra, etc. The theoretical developments are properly supplemented by examples from earthquake, wind, and ocean engineering. The book is integrated by also comprising several useful appendices, and an exhaustive list of references; it will be an indispensable tool for students, researchers, and practitioners endeavoring in its thematic field."
—Pol Spanos, NAE, Ryon Chair in Engineering, Rice University, Houston, USA

STP 1495 Heat-Air-Moisture Transport: Measurements on Building Materials

STP 1486 Pavement Surface Condition/Performance Assessment: Reliability and Relevancy of Procedures and Technologies

The document is divided into four chapters. Chapter 1 provides an overview of confined masonry construction and its components. It discusses the seismic performance of confined masonry buildings in past earthquakes. Chapter 2 presents general requirements related to confined masonry construction. Chapter 3 outlines a guideline for low-rise non-engineered confined masonry buildings (up to two stories high), which could be built without engineered design performed by qualified engineers or architects, and thus no design calculations or procedures are included. Many single-family dwellings are built in this manner. Additional design procedures and requirements for engineered confined masonry buildings are outlined in Chapter 4. Medium-rise
buildings of this type (up to five stories high) can be designed and built following the
recommendations provided in this document and other relevant national codes and standards.