Engineering quantification of inconsistent information
by Michael Beer
International Journal of Reliability and Safety (IJRS), Vol. 3, No. 1/2/3, 2009

Abstract: In this paper, the specification of fuzzy random quantities is considered for selected cases of problematic information as it appears frequently in engineering practice. The problem of inconsistency regarding uncertainty and imprecision is addressed. Quantification strategies are proposed for the following cases: (i) samples of small size (ii) samples with imprecise elements and (iii) samples obtained under inconsistent environmental conditions. Typical expert knowledge is included in the considerations. For solution, traditional statistical methods are combined with non-stochastic models for dealing with imprecision. Statistical uncertainty and imprecision are reflected separately in the quantification results. The entire range of possible stochastic models is covered and can be forwarded to a structural analysis and reliability assessment. This provides valuable information for subsequent decision-making. The risk of deriving wrong decisions due to biased or narrowed uncertainty quantification can be reduced significantly. The proposed quantification strategies are demonstrated by way of numerical examples.

Online publication date: Sat, 27-Jun-2009

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Reliability and Safety (IJRS):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com