A reliability model using markov chains for utility evaluation of computer systems onboard ships

摘要

Introduction of computers onboard ships to provide a high degree of automation necessitates calculation of computer system reliability to evaluate the utility of the system. The reliability aspect of the system is simulated by a model using Markov chains. Having defined the system state space and the transition rates, the model provides evaluation of the state probabilities. Evaluation of system utility is based on computer task values and the failure probabilities. Application of the analysis model to an existing system reveals information useful in assigning redundancy, eliminating bottle-necks and allocating spare parts.