This book describes the main methods used in the reliability of structures and their use in the design process leading to reliable products. This title provides the understanding needed to implement the variety of new reliability software programs.

Maurice Lemaire is Professor at the French Institute for Advanced Mechanics in Clermont-Ferrand and Head of the research group on mechanics and engineering. His works deal with the numerical modeling of the structures and their probabilistic approaches. He directed numerous doctorate theses and took part in many industrial studies in partnership with industrial companies. An active member of several associations, he takes part in the development of the probabilistic methods for both research and for the technical applications.