Optimal Allocation for Complex Systems' Safety

Abstract

To solve the question of guaranteeing the safety of a system with a complex structure and tight couplings, a new method of optimal allocation exploiting the dynamical planning theory is presented. Two key factors that can affect system safety, i.e., accident loss and accident rate are analyzed. Then, to measure comprehensively requirements of system safety, accident safety level is defined based on these two factors. Subsequently, optimal allocation for complex systems’ safety resource is implemented according to the network properties of the inherent structures of the systems and constraint conditions for safe investments. Finally, a case study shows that the method using dynamical planning for optimal allocation of system safety can ensure preferential allocations of the parts with high safety requirements. Besides, this optimal allocation method is feasible and valid.