A finite-range distribution of failure times

Properties of a finite-range failure-time distribution, that includes the exponential as a particular case, have been studied. The distribution is IFR when the shape parameter exceeds unity, but is IFRA always. For a given value of the shape parameter, the distribution is NBUE over a segment of its range. Estimators of parameters have been derived. Distributions of two-component series, parallel, and standby system lives have also been worked out.     

A note on a difficulty inherent in estimating reliability from stress–strength relationships

This note calls attention to a difficulty which arises frequently in the application of stress-strength methods in reliability theory. This difficulty has led to unanticipated catastrophic failures in a number of applications.     

An iterative procedure for nondiscounted discrete-time markov decisions

This paper considers the problem of computing, by iterative methods, optimal policies for Markov decision processes. The policies computed are optimal for all sufficiently small interest rates.     

The single server queue in discrete time-numerical analysis IV

The nonlinear difference equation for the distribution of the busy period for an unbounded discrete time queue of M|G| 1 type is solved numerically by a monotone iterative procedure. A starting solution is found by computing a first passage time distribution in a truncated version of the queue.     

A survey of maintenance models: The control and surveillance of deteriorating systems

The literature on maintenance models is surveyed. The focus is on work appearing since the 1965 survey, “Maintenance Policies for Stochastically Failing Equipment: A Survey” by John McCall and the 1965 book, The Mathematical Theory of Reliability, by Richard Barlow and Frank Proschan. The survey includes models which involve an optimal decision to procure, inspect, and repair and/or replace a unit subject to deterioration in service.     

A mixed optimization technique for the generalized machine replacement problem

A mixed optimization technique for optimal machine replacement is presented which allows much more flexibility than previous models. Optimal purchase, maintenance and sale of a given machine between any two given points in time is treated as a subproblem, which one may choose to solve via control theory, dynamic programming, or practical engineering considerations. (A control theory formulation is used in the paper as an illustration.) These subproblem solutions are then incorporated into a Wagner-Whitin formulation for solution of the full problem. The technique is particularly useful for problems with such asymmetries as an existing initial machine or uneven technological change. A simple numerical example is solved in the Appendix.     

The fast deployment logistic ship project: Economic design and decision technique

This paper describes the way in which economic analyses, particularly life-cycle cost analyses and tradeoffs were structured for use as an integrated analysis and design technique at all levels of the Contract Definition of the Fast Deployment Logistic Ship. It describes system, subsystem and major component economic analysis and design methodology as well as economic analyses of special subjects such as the ship production facility design. Illustrations are provided of several major system parametric studies and of shipyard and manning/automation analyses.     

On constraint qualifications in nonlinear programming

In this paper we examine the relationship between two constraint qualifications developed by Abadie and Arrow, Hurwicz, and Uzawa. A third constraint qualification is discussed and shown to be weaker than either of those mentioned above.