A-IFM reliability allocation model based on multicriteria approach

Abstract

Purpose The paper aims to evaluate reliability allocation using an aerospace system prototype. The proposed approach has been applied and compared with other traditional methods on an aerospace system prototype, where the reliability allocation process is rigorous. Design/methodology/approach The new approach is based on Integrated factors Method (IFM), whose values are adjusted trough a multicriteria method, the Analytic Hierarchy Process, depending on the importance of each factor and each unit of the system. The result is a dynamic model, that combines the advantages of the allocation method and the multicriteria decision-making technique. Findings The reasons that led to the development of the IFM based AHP are the outcome of a careful analysis of the current military and commercial approaches. In particular most of analyzed methods use constant weights for the factors involved in the reliability allocation; different weights are rarely assigned to these factors. Research limitations/implications There is no limitation for implementation of A-IFM reliability allocation model in very large and complex systems, and it can therefore provide an improved structured arrangement for reliability allocation. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions further. Practical implications The proposed method offers several benefits compared with current military and commercial approaches. Originality/value The computational results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the new approach and its ability to overcome the criticalities highlighted in literature.