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In this paper, Numpress Explore software, developed at the Institute of Fundamental Technological Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IPPT PAN), was used to conduct reliability analyses. For static-strength calculations, the MES3D module, designed by the authors, was employed. Ultimate limit state was defined as condition of non-exceedance of the capacity value, resulting from the stability criterion of the bent and compressed element. The serviceability limit state was defined as the condition of non-exceedance of allowable vertical displacement. The above conditions constitute implicit forms of random variable functions; therefore, it was necessary to build an interface between the Numpress Explore and MES3D programs. In the study, a comparative analysis of two cases was carried out. As regards the first case, all adopted random variables had a normal distribution. The second case involved a more accurate description of the quantities mentioned. A normal distribution can be adopted for the description of, e.g., the randomness in the location of the structure nodes, and also the randomness of the multiplier of permanent loads. In actual systems, the distribution of certain loads deviates substantially from the Gaussian distribution. Consequently, adopting the assumption that the loads have a normal distribution can lead to gross errors in the assessment of structural safety. The distribution of loads resulting from atmospheric conditions is decidedly non-Gaussian in character. The Gumbel distribution was used in this study to describe snow and wind loads. The modulus of elasticity and cross-sectional area were described by means of a log-normal distribution. The adopted random variables were independent. Additionally, based on an analysis of the elasticity index, the random variables most affect the failure probability in the ultimate limit state and serviceability limit state were estimated.

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The research paper presents the results of the dynamic analysis of an existing bar dome subjected to wind loads.The calculation model of the structure was constructed using the finite element method. The dome was subjected to the standard wind pressure, assuming that it is operates in a harmonic manner. The numerical analyses were performed with the application of Autodesk Robot and MES3D. The analysis focused on the impact of selected factors such as the frequency of forcing, wind gustiness coefficient and structural damping on the behaviour of structures.

Abstract. The paper presents a proposal for the assessment of the reliability of statically determinate steel truss in the persistent and accidental (fire) design situation. The steel truss was modelled as series system from the reliability standpoint. The global Hasofer-Lind reliability index was employed, computed in successive time steps for the whole structure, not for individual elements. Fire analysis was carried out according to three different time-temperature curves-standard, hydrocarbon and external. Monitoring the reliability index in the successive minutes of the fire makes it possible to estimate the probability of the structure failure, and to decide whether the required safety level is maintained.