Expedited Award for Novel Research: Probabilistic Optimal Design Using Reliability Index Methods

A general approach will be used for probabilistic optimal design (POD) of mechanical and structural systems. The idea represents a novel approach to optimize design in conjunction with failure estimates, which avoids computationally expensive simulations. A concept linking robustness of design to low sensitivity will be developed. Based on this concept, a method is developed which can identify critical parameters that affect the reliability of a mechanical or structural system. This methodology can be incorporated in various simulation programs. Further, the POD approach is readily applicable to probabilistic design and tolerance synthesis of constrained dynamic systems.