A Numerical Approach to the Repairman Problem with Two Different Types of Machine

Abstract

In this paper we deal with a heterogeneous machine-interference model under the assumption that the priority machines have pre-emptive priority over the ordinary ones. In each group, machines are characterized by exponentially distributed failure and repair times with different rates. The failed machines are served by a single repairman according to FIFO discipline. The aim of the paper is to give the steady-state operational characteristics of the system, such as operative utilization, expected busy-period length, machine availability, mean waiting times and average number of failed machines. Finally, numerical examples illustrate the problem in question.

Keywords:

• failure time
• machine availability
• operative utilization
• repairman problem