ABSTRACT
A new method called the random factor method (RFM) for the dynamic analysis of stochastic truss structures is presented in this paper. Using the RFM, the structural physical parameters and geometry can be considered as random variables. The structural stiffness and mass matrices can then be respectively divided into the product of two parts corresponding to the random factors and the deterministic matrix. Computational expressions for the numerical characteristics of the natural frequencies and mode shapes are derived using the algebra synthesis method. The influences of the randomness of the structural parameters on the dynamic characteristics are demonstrated using a truss structure.