Robust and efficient methods for stochastic finite element analysis using Monte Carlo simulation

In the present paper the weighted integral method and the Monte Carlo simulation are used together with innovative solution strategies based on the Preconditioned Conjugate Gradient method (PCG) to produce robust and efficient solutions for the stochastic finite element analysis of space frames. The numerical tests presented demonstrate the superiority of the proposed computational strategies compared to the widely used Neumann expansion method both in terms of accuracy and computational efficiency. The superiority is more pronounced in cases where the analysis needs to be performed for large variations of the stochastic parameters.