Bayesian Hierarchical Model-Based Information Fusion for Degradation Analysis Considering Non-Competing Relationship

Abstract

Degradation analysis methods are increasingly used in reliability assessment of long-life products. The small sample size problem is worthy of attention in the degradation analysis. Bayesian hierarchical method is employed for fusing multi-source degradation information to handle small sample problems. The competing relationship multiple degradation models have been widely researched and applied. However, there is the non-competing multiple degradation situation exist in mechanical products. In this paper, a Bayesian hierarchical model-based information fusion degradation method with gamma process model is introduced for describing the non-competing relationship multiple degradation process. Therefore, the Bayesian method and the MCMC method are employed for parameters estimation. A numerical example of spool valve of hydraulic system in exoskeleton robot is provided to demonstrate the proposed Bayesian hierarchical model-based information fusion degradation method.