Hybrid particle swarm optimization for first-order reliability method

A reliability analysis method based on the combination of the first-order reliability method (FORM) and hybrid particle swarm optimization (SACPSO) is presented for the reliability optimization calculation. The new reliability method, named as SACPSO-FORM, can be utilized for those complex reliability problems with correlated non-normal variables and implicit performance functions. Three examples are performed to verify its validation, and stability reliability analysis on the complicated rock foundation of a practical gravity dam is demonstrated. The results show that the proposed method is accurate, stable, flexible and efficient for reliability analysis in engineering applications.