Probability-Based Stability Design in Cantilever Bridge Construction

The paper proposes a direct application of reliability-based methods for the solution of a specific structural engineering problem: the loss of stability by overturning during construction of bridges built up by the balanced cantilever method. A sensitivity analysis is performed to show the importance of different random variables in the design upon the safety index during construction. The main assumptions and methodology applicable to other design situations are presented. The results are compared with those derived from a deterministic approach.