Efficient structural computations with parameters uncertainty for composite applications

The aim of this paper is to propose a methodology in order to take into account the influence of uncertain data in structural calculations. To attain this goal, an approximation of the responses as a function of the uncertain data response called surface method (RSM) is proposed. In order to decrease the number of identification points necessary for the RSM, a progressive strategy is proposed. Error indicators are also used in order to increase the confidence. This strategy is applied to a laminate plate subjected to bending tests. The results are compared to Monte-Carlo simulations (considered as a reference). The method proposed in the present work permits to estimate correctly the whole response and is very simple to use (pre- and post-processing). This method is applied to asses the robustness of the point-stress method used to predict the rupture of perforated plates. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.