Simulation-based dependability evaluation of complex repairable system using variable time increment method

In this paper, we first define the system's running state as a function within repair time constraints. Then, we quantitatively describe all combinations of subsystem states. Since the system dependability mainly lies on subsystem probability distribution of Time between Failure and Time to Repair, we give random variable's probability distribution and sampling method based on variable time increment. On the basis of identifying the failure state and repair, we can determine if the system running could satisfy all requirement of performance. Finally, we have carried out the dependability assessment of complex repairable system through simulation as a case study. The simulation results demonstrate the system dependability assessment through simulation is able to measure the dependability of complex repairable system with arbitrary subsystem configurations and various different subsystem failure distributions without modification.