Abstract
A space truss, as all other structures, is constantly subject to various types of uncertainties. For the purpose of estimating, and furthermore, ensuring the safety of a space truss, it is important to investigate its mechanical behavior with consideration of the influences of uncertainties.
A 6 × 6 square-plan, double-layer space truss is designed in accordance with minimum weight design concept and used as an example to study.
A computer program is written to analyze the truss structure, with an ability to simulate member buckling.
The Monte Carlo method is applied for statistical studies with trial number of each study set to 100.
The variation of member strength, initial imperfection of member length are chosen for component uncertainties, and the error in assembly process is chosen for human error. The mechanical behavior of the space truss influenced by these uncertainties is studied. A comparison between the influences of the component's uncertainties originating in human error, is made to determine where the most critical uncertainties lie.
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