Estimation of the constant-stress model with bathtub-shaped failure rates under progressive type-I interval censoring scheme

Abstract

This paper investigates constant-stress accelerated life tests interrupted by a progressive type-I interval censoring regime. We provide a model based on the Chen distribution with a constant shape parameter and a log-linear connection between the scale parameter and stress loading. Inferential methods, whether classical or Bayesian, are employed to address model parameters and reliability attributes. Classical methods involve the estimation of model parameters through maximum likelihood and midpoint techniques. Bayesian approximations are achieved via the utilization of the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm, Tierney-Kadane procedure, and importance sampling methods. Furthermore, we engage in a discourse on the estimation of confidence intervals, making references to both asymptotic confidence intervals and credible intervals. To conclude, we furnish a simulation study, a corresponding discussion, and supplement these with an analysis of real data.

Keywords

• Chen distribution
• Constant-stress accelerated life test
• Progressive type-I interval censoring
• Maximum likelihood estimation
• Bayesian estimation
• MCMC