Redundancy of Structural Systems in the Context of Structural Safety

摘要: Abstract Redundancy has long been regarded as a desirable property in ensuring the safety of structural systems. Nevertheless, it should be remarked that there is, yet, neither uniform theory redundancy nor any widely agreed definitions. With aim incorporating into decision-making, present article concentrates on essentials well its significance within wider context safety. First, explains three terms associated with redundancy, including static indeterminacy, alternative load paths and, meanwhile, clarifies their interdependence. Secondly, different levels (i.e. reliability and robustness) are investigated from broader perspective, which refers to pristine or intact state structure, whereas robustness corresponds local damage states. Based two distinct levels, is argued herein existence assists in: (1) enhancing margin/reliability structure state; (2) mitigating sensitivity/vulnerability localised under an accidental situation. Thirdly, classifies major aspects redundant structures, taking account various stages they involved in. Further, essential means designing for discussed can readily integrated decision-making. A hypothetical system employed illustrative purpose, indicating aforementioned treated frame. this study, some recommendations presented areas further research indicated.