A reliability model for a k-out-of- N:G redundant system with multiple failure modes and common cause failures

Abstract

The paper presents a reliability model of a k-out-of- N:G redundant system with M mutually exclusive failure modes and common cause failures. Failed system repair times are arbitrarily distributed. The system is in a failed state when ( N− k+1) units failed or a common cause failure occurred. Laplace transforms of the state probabilities and the availability of the system are derived. Finally, the system steady-state availability is also reported.