Finite element analysis of structures with interval parameters

This paper present a new method called the interval factor method for the finite element analysis of truss structures with interval parameters. Using the interval factor method, the structural parameters and loads can be considered as interval variables, and the structural stiffness matrix can then be divided into the product of two parts corresponding to its deterministic value and the interval factors. The computational expressions for lower and upper bounds, mean value and interval change ratio of structural placement and stress responses are derived from the static governing equations by means of the interval operations. The effect of the uncertainty of the structural parameters and loads on the structural static responses is demonstrated by truss structures.