ABSTRACT

If, then, we assume a stationary random regime for weather or earthquake activity, we need to consider what the implications are. The requirements of the design engineer are to arrive at a characterization of F in equation (1.1) (see also Fig. 1.1) that will represent the force for which he or she wants to design. This value must be obtained first by assessing the governing design criterion from the three categories listed above. The designer must then decide what is the natural environment in the particular area in which his or her structure will be located. There are many sources for obtaining such force data.