Multiple resource replenishment with multi-mission satellite applications

Both scheduled and replenishment as-needed strategies are analyzed for multiple resource systems. It is found that, in general, the most efficient strategies are those for which the replenishment is made with a combination of units most closely resembling the failed resources. In this context, most efficient refers to the smallest expected unit replenishment rate required to generate a given level of continuing service. Quantitative results are given for man cases of interest including replenishment with multiple resources of different types. The techniques used can be extended to other replenishment strategies and failure models. The results are particularly applicable to multi-mission satellite systems and can contribute to the economic analysis of such systems.