A nonparametric model of random uncertainties for reduced matrix models in structural dynamics

Random uncertainties in finite element models in linear structural dynamics are usually modeled by using parametric models. This means that: (1) the uncertain local parameters occurring in the global mass, damping and stiffness matrices of the finite element model have to he identified; (2) appropriate probabilistic models of these uncertain parameters have to be constructed; and (3) functions mapping the domains of uncertain parameters into the global mass, damping and stiffness matrices have to be constructed. In the low-frequency range, a reduced matrix model can then be constructed using the generalized coordinates associated with the structural modes corresponding to the lowest eigenfrequencies. In this paper we propose an approach for constructing a random uncertainties model of the generalized mass, damping and stiffness matrices. This nonparametric model does not require identifying the uncertain local parameters and consequently, obviates construction of functions that map the domains of uncertain local parameters into the generalized mass, damping and stiffness matrices. This nonparametric model of random uncertainties is based on direct construction of a probabilistic model of the generalized mass, damping and stiffness matrices, which uses only the available information constituted of the mean value of the generalized mass, damping and stiffness matrices. This paper describes the explicit construction of the theory of such a nonparametric model. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.