Abstract
In the paper, two-element (f,k) and <f,k> combined systems are developed, and two-kind combined reliability systems and some related new concepts such as irreducible structure and structure equivalence are introduced, which can be used not only in real practical situations, but also enrich the reliability contents. We proved that four-class combined reliability systems need to be considered actually, which facilitates the handling of these combined reliability systems. Meanwhile, a coordinate system with two axes, the number of total failed components and the number of maximal consecutive failed components, is introduced in the paper for representing the working and failed areas for the combined reliability systems, which brings out a useful tool for understanding the working and failure mechanisms, and system state transition ways, for the combined reliability systems. To summarize the reliability calculation, a procedure for calculations of the combined reliability systems is presented, which is an efficient guidance for these reliability computations. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the computation procedure in which the detailed steps, special on using Finite Markov Chain Imbedding Approach (FMCIA), are shown. We believe that the present paper can shed light on researches on combined reliability systems.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
