Selecting the most reliable population under step-stress accelerated life test

Abstract

Wo present a method for selecting the most reliable population under step-stress accelerated life testing with typo II censoring. We construct a new statistic, the transitional order statistic (TOS), and derive an approximate expression for its distribution. Using the TOS, a selection rule is formulated from the test results. For planning purposes, we establish the relation between sample size and the probability of correct selection by defining a nonlinear indifference zone under the least favorable configuration. Finally, a simulation study is performed to illustrate the selection procedure and to validate the associated probability of correct selection. © World Scientific Publishing Company.