Simultaneous computer simulation of operational random processes and continual rainflow counting

Abstract A computer algorithm for the continous counting of the closed hysteresis loops of simulated operational processes is presented. The procedure enables rainflow counting to be performed parallel to a stochastic signal generation. This renders possible the continual monitoring of both a time history and a fatigue damage cumulation. The properties of the on-line computer simulation of operational random processes are also discussed. A model of time series generation with superposed discontinuous events has been supposed. This approach will enable small personal computers to simulate arbitrary operational stress histories and to estimate simultaneously a residual fatigue life of engineering components and structures.