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Computing the reliability of hammock networks in quadratic time with respect to length

Author

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  • Jianu, Mihail
  • Jianu, Marilena
  • DăuÅŸ, Leonard
  • Beiu, Valeriu

Abstract

The paper introduces an efficient algorithm for computing the reliability polynomial of hammock networks. A hammock network of length l and width w is made up of w × l identical devices that independently work with probability p (and fail with probability 1−p). A brute-force algorithm to compute its reliability polynomial would require a running time exponential in w × l. We introduce a new algorithm and prove that it is exponential in w (as expected), while being only quadratic in l. This allows us to compute, for the first time ever, the reliability polynomials of hammock networks of dimensions significantly larger than 8 (the largest reported in the literature).

Suggested Citation

  • Jianu, Mihail & Jianu, Marilena & DăuÅŸ, Leonard & Beiu, Valeriu, 2026. "Computing the reliability of hammock networks in quadratic time with respect to length," Reliability Engineering and System Safety, Elsevier, vol. 270(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:reensy:v:270:y:2026:i:c:s0951832025013201
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ress.2025.112121
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    References listed on IDEAS

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