Stochastic dynamic analysis of nonlinear MDOF systems under combined Gaussian and Poisson noise excitation based on DPIM

Random vibration analysis of structures subjected to combined Gaussian and Poisson white noise excitation is a challenging issue. In this paper, a novel direct probability integral method (DPIM) is suggested to address stochastic responses and dynamic reliability of nonlinear multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) systems under combined excitation. Firstly, probability density integral equation (PDIE) of MDOF system under combined excitation is derived based on the principle of probability conservation. Then, DPIM is proposed to achieve the probability density function of stochastic response by solving deterministic motion equation of MDOF system and PDIE in sequence. To solve PDIE, two techniques, i.e., partition of input probability space and smoothing of Dirac delta function, are introduced. From the perspective of probability conservation, furthermore, the equivalent relationship between the PDIE and the corresponding probability density differential equation of a Markov system under combined Gaussian and Poisson noise is established. Since Dirac delta function is analytically integrated as Heaviside function, the first-passage dynamic reliability of MDOF system under combined excitation is readily evaluated by introducing the extreme value mapping of stochastic response. Finally, two nonlinear MDOF systems, including multiple-span bridge under combined vehicle load and non-stationary seismic excitation, are solved. Results demonstrate that the proposed DPIM is effective for random vibration and dynamic reliability analyses of MDOF structures excited by combined Gaussian and Poisson noise, and considering the randomness of vehicle load and seismic excitation simultaneously in the bridge design benefits the safe operation of bridge.