Response variables correlation in stochastic finite element analysis (Q1123062)

Stochastic finite element techniques are used for estimating the uncertain response of discretized structural systems which are defined by random quantities or are subjected to random excitations. This response is a variable y depending on noncorrelated variables \(x_ j\), \(j\geq 1\). Some of the \(x_ j's\) may be functions of the spatial coordinates or random vectors obtained by discretization of the continuous model. The author pays attention to study two-dimensional response by the so-called response surface method. In particular a second moment description is easily obtained using the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The method is applied to the study of inelastic deformations in the cladding at the nozzle-vessel corner. The stress of the basic material is the response variable of interest in view of crack propagation.