Modeling a shared-load k-out-of-n:G system

A Markov model for analyzing the reliability and availability of an n-unit shared-load repairable k-out-of-n:G system with imperfect switching is presented. The equations for both time-dependent and steady-state system availability are given. An inverse Laplace transform is used to solve the simultaneous differential equations for the nonrepairable case. A generalized analytic function for system reliability is obtained. Examples are provided to demonstrate the model and the impact of a load-sharing strategy on the reliability. The load-sharing strategy can improve system reliability and availability, if the controller and switching parameters are adequate. The proposed approach and solution are helpful to system engineers and reliability analysts