Determination of the Optimum Replacement Time for a System Composed of 'N' Independently Failing Subsystems Whose Failure Rates Follow the Traditional 'Bath-Tub' Curve.

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to offer a method for estimating the optimum system replacement time for a system composed of 'N' unlike subsystems whose failure rates are similar to those of the traditional 'bath-tub failure rate curve. This is done for two particular situations. First, before a new system is placed in the field, or after it is already operating; an estimate of the optimum replacement time can be determined. Second, when an expensive repair must be made near the system's prescribed replacement time, it can be determined whether it is more economical to replace the system then, or repair the system and keep it in operation. The paper also includes computer programs to calculate the optimum replacement time for both the above situations, examples, and an analysis of parameter estimation. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1972
Accession Number
AD0768184

Entities

People

  • William F. Currotto

Organizations

  • United States Army Materiel Command

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Programs
  • Computers

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Approximation Theory.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management.