Main features: stochastic simulation, reliability analysis, Monte Carlo method model for analysis specified using various mathematical and logical functions up to 256 input random variables defined in parametric or non-parametric form up to 256 monitored output variables. Statistics evaluation, distribution estimation, whole history recording graphical and numerical output

LoadCom

The LoadCom (Load Combination) program serves as a tool for load effect combination analysis according to Allowable Stress Design (ASD), Partial Factor Design (ASCE/AISC-LRFD), Limit States Design (Canadian National Standards) and the Simulation Based Reliability Assessment (SBRA) concept. Importance of a structure for the LRFD calculation can be selected (Common or Low Importance/Exception), three different probability levels for the Probability Based Design can be entered. Combination of up to six loads (Dead load, Long Lasting load, Short Lasting load, Snow load, Wind load and Earthquake load) can be calculated.

ResCom

The ResCom (Response Combination) program allows the determination of the structure response to a single-component load effects combination. Combinations of up to sixteen mutually uncorrelated load effects can be calculated. Four different probability levels can be entered. SBRA Load duration curves expressing the random variable loads are represented by corresponding histograms. Database containing common histograms is available and new histogram can be easily created.

DamAc

The DamAc (Damage Accumulation) program is an assessment tool. The safety of a wood member exposed to a time dependent random load effect combination expressed by accumulated damage (based on Madison curves, SJ curves, etc.) is assessed utilising this particular SBRA program. Combinations of up to sixteen load effects can be considered. All load effects are represented by histograms. Database containing common histograms is available and new histogram can be easily created.

M-Star


The M-Star is an universal Monte Carlo-based simulation program which allows statistical analysis of an variable expressed by a mathematical expressions. Up to 21 equations with various arithmetic, trigonometric, logical, etc. functions of up to thirty random variables can be used. The generation of input values is based on distribution functions for the independent variables of the functions. In each Monte Carlo simulation step, also called trial, the values of independent variables are sampled from the corresponding probability functions. Using these variable values, the values of the mathematical expressions are calculated. Up to 999,999,999 simulation steps can be accomplished. Histogram of analysed variable is created and various statistical parameters are calculated. Probability and quantile assessment is available. Histograms can be displayed in various graphical forms and results can be saved for further evaluation and processing.

Anthill

The program Anthill allows evaluation and display of multi-dimensional (multi-component) random variables. It is possible to evaluate algebraic expressions containing up to thirty random variables in to 32 equations. The generation of input values is based on distribution functions for the independent variables of the functions. In each Monte Carlo simulation step, also called trial, the values of independent variables are sampled from the corresponding probability functions. Using these variable values, the values of the mathematical expressions are calculated and resulting values are stored. When the specified number of trials is achieved then the reliability analysis based on collected data is performed. The probability of the occurrence of certain event is then calculated as the number of simulations, in which the event occurred, divided by the total number of simulations. A direct reliability assessment as well as an iteration procedure for model parameter estimation is included.

Lite versions of SBRA programs
Whole set containing free Lite versions of MS-DOS programs M-Star, Anthill, LoadCom, ResCom and DamAc with more than 200 examples can be downloaded here. This set can be found on the diskette attached to the book Simulation based reliability assessment for structural engineers (1995, CRC PRESS, inc., Boca Raton, Florida, ISBN 0-8493-8286-6 ). A qualitatively new SBRA method is documented in the book containing “rules of the game“, i.e., rules of a fully probabilistic structural reliability assessment concept. A set of attached examples and computer programs allow the reader to understand in no time the substance of the transition from deterministic to probabilistic “way of thinking“. A transition from prescriptive methods (applied in current codes for structural design) to probabilistic concepts corresponding to the potential of modern computers is addressed. The SBRA method bypasses the Load and Resistance Safety Factors, Design Point and other quantities used in the Partial Factors Method. It leads the user to understand the interaction of individual random variables, the analysis of the reliability function and the safety expressed by comparing the probability of failure and target probability contained in specifications.

Demonstration versions of SBRA programs
Free Demo versions of MS-DOS programs M-Star, Anthill, LoadCom, ResCom and DamAc with many examples can be downloaded here. These demonstration programs can be found on diskette attached to the book Tragwerksbemessung. Von deterministischen zu probabilistischen Verfahren (ACADEMIA, Prague, Czech Republic, ISBN: 80-902227-6-5 and 80-200-0706-7). The German speaking readers can find in this textbook a detailed explanation of a qualitatively new fully probabilistic SBRA method (Simulation-Based Reliability Assessment proposed in 1995) allowing for a transparent calculation of the probability of failure using direct Monte Carlo simulation technique. The limit states of the carrying capacity (safety) as well as serviceability are addressed. The SBRA method documented in the book and illustrated on the many examples leads the reader from deterministic to probabilistic “way of thinking“ in order to be ready for the transition from the current “prescriptive“ methods applied in current codes for structural design to fully probabilistic concepts corresponding to the computer era.