Reliability optimization in series-parallel and parallel-series systems subject to random shocks

Abstract

Consider a series-parallel (parallel-series) system composed of [Formula: see text] subsystems subject to [Formula: see text] independent stochastically identical nonhomogeneous Poisson processes, its reliability optimization problems are analysed in this paper. The reliability function of the series-parallel (parallel-series) system is presented. We study the optimal subsystems grouping policy to maximize the system reliability. It is shown that the series-parallel (parallel-series) system is more reliable (unreliable) when more subsystems share a common combined shock process. Different allocation policies of components are compared in terms of majorization order. Some examples are given to illustrate the results.