A MAXIMUM-LIKELIHOOD METHOD FOR ESTIMATING P-S-N CURVES

A maximum likelihood method for estimating P-S-N curves is proposed in order to minimize the time and the number of specimens required for l aboratory testing. The S-N curves are assumed in a three-parameter for m. The proposed maximum likelihood method can conveniently be used to estimate the three parameters of the S-N curves. The required number o f test specimens for the maximum likelihood method is less than that f or the conventional method. Based on the test results of notched steel specimens subject to axial loads, it is shown here that the P-S-N cur ves obtained by the maximum likelihood method agree well with those ob tained by the conventional method. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Limited.