Recursive Methods for Fuzzy Multi-State k-out-of-n:G System Reliability Assessment

Compared with a binary system model, a multi-state system model provides a more flexible tool for representing engineering systems in real life. In the classic multi-state system theory, it is assumed that exact probability and performance level of each component state are given. However it may be difficult to obtain sufficient data to estimate the precise values of these probabilities and performance levels in many engineering systems. In some recent research fuzzy theories have been used in the multi-state system models to overcome these deficiencies. The definition of fuzzy multi-state k-out-of-n:G system is proposed in this paper. Recursive algorithms are provided for evaluating reliabilities of the proposed system.