An efficient algorithm for sequential generation of failure states in a network with multi-mode components

In this work a new algorithm for the sequential generation of failure states in a network with multi-mode components is proposed. The algorithm presented in the paper transforms the state enumeration problem into a K-shortest paths problem. Taking advantage of the inherent efficiency of an algorithm for shortest paths enumeration and also of the characteristics of the reliability problem in which it will be used, an algorithm with lower complexity than the best algorithm in the literature for solving this problem, was obtained. Computational results will be presented for comparing the efficiency of both algorithms in terms of CPU time and for problems of different size.