Task Group 1.4
Probabilistic Nonlinear Finite Element Modelling, Quality Control and Lifetime Assessment for Today's Engineering Practice Mission Statement/Objectives The increasing demand for sustainable, resilient, and reliable infrastructure requires advanced methodologies for assessing, monitoring, and managing the performance of engineering structures throughout their entire life cycle. As infrastructure systems age and societal expectations regarding safety, serviceability, and sustainability continue to grow, engineers are increasingly challenged to make informed decisions under uncertainty. Task Group 1.4 addresses these challenges through the development and application of probabilistic nonlinear finite element modelling, reliability-based assessment methods, quality management approaches, and advanced lifetime assessment methodologies. Particular emphasis is placed on integrating engineering mechanics, probabilistic methods, digital technologies, monitoring systems, and quality assurance principles into a coherent framework for engineering practice. The Task Group aims to bridge the gap between scientific advances and practical implementation by developing methodologies that support the assessment, monitoring, maintenance, rehabilitation, and life-cycle management of civil engineering structures. Special attention is given to probabilistic numerical digital twins, structural health monitoring, performance-based assessment, reliability and safety concepts, and quality-based service-life engineering. The developed methodologies are validated through real-world case studies, demonstrating their applicability to existing and new infrastructure systems. Particular emphasis is placed on demonstrating the close relationship between quality management, reliability assessment, and long-term structural performance. Scope & Limitation TG1.4 focuses on the development and application of reliability-based and probabilistic assessment methodologies for engineering structures throughout their life cycle. The scope includes probabilistic nonlinear finite element modelling (FEM), discrete element methods (DEM), structural performance assessment, structural health monitoring, probabilistic digital twins, quality management and quality control, as well as static, dynamic, and time-dependent aspects of structural behaviour. Particular attention is given to material and system uncertainties, reliability and safety concepts, probabilistic safety formats, calibration of partial safety factors, and the assessment, maintenance, rehabilitation, and management of existing infrastructure systems. The Task Group aims to integrate advanced engineering mechanics, numerical modelling, monitoring technologies, and quality management principles into practical methodologies that support decision-making for infrastructure owners, designers, and operators. TG1.4 does not primarily focus on the development of structural design codes, load models, systems exhibiting very large deformations or highly nonlinear collapse mechanisms, timber structures, or geotechnical and soil systems. While these topics may interact with the activities of the Task Group, they are considered outside its principal area of responsibility. Basis and Previous Achievements The activities of TG1.4 build upon the successful outcomes of the previous term (2017–2023), which established a strong scientific foundation in the fields of probabilistic modelling, reliability assessment, monitoring, digital twins, and quality-based infrastructure management. Selected contributions include:
These contributions demonstrate the successful integration of advanced numerical modelling, reliability assessment, monitoring technologies, and practical engineering applications. Current Activities and Achievements TG1.4 has established a highly active international platform bringing together academia, infrastructure owners, consultants, contractors, and industry representatives to advance the application of reliability-based engineering and quality management throughout the life cycle of structures. Recent activities include:
Research and Innovation Activities The Task Group actively supports international research and innovation initiatives addressing reliability, quality management, nonlinear modelling, digital engineering, monitoring technologies, and service-life assessment. Current activities include:
Expected Project Outputs (2024-2028) Structural Engineering Document (SED) Finalisation of the Structural Engineering Document: "Probabilistic Nonlinear Finite Element Modelling for Engineering Practice" (planned completion in 2026). Scientific Publications The Task Group aims to publish at least three peer-reviewed papers in Scopus-indexed journals addressing:
Research Projects
The deliverables, reports, and publications from the previous TG1.4 term (2017–2024) are available in the Downloads/Documents section. Selected outputs from the current term will be added as they become available, including:
Start Date: May 2024 Target Date of Completion: April 2028
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