학술논문

A continuous-time semi-markov bayesian belief network model for availability measure estimation of fault tolerant systems
Document Type
article
Source
Pesquisa Operacional. August 2008 28(2)
Subject
semi-Markov processes
Bayesian belief networks
Laplace transforms
availability measure
fault tolerant systems
Language
English
ISSN
0101-7438
Abstract
In this work it is proposed a model for the assessment of availability measure of fault tolerant systems based on the integration of continuous time semi-Markov processes and Bayesian belief networks. This integration results in a hybrid stochastic model that is able to represent the dynamic characteristics of a system as well as to deal with cause-effect relationships among external factors such as environmental and operational conditions. The hybrid model also allows for uncertainty propagation on the system availability. It is also proposed a numerical procedure for the solution of the state probability equations of semi-Markov processes described in terms of transition rates. The numerical procedure is based on the application of Laplace transforms that are inverted by the Gauss quadrature method known as Gauss Legendre. The hybrid model and numerical procedure are illustrated by means of an example of application in the context of fault tolerant systems.