Reliability-oriented task allocation in redundant distributed systems

Optimal task allocation for redundant, heterogeneous distributed computer systems is examined. It is assumed that the systems under consideration are required for execution of long-term mission applications such as space flights. A formal description of the problem is given and formal, quantitative task allocation models are derived. Both an optimal allocation algorithm and an approximating optimal algorithm are derived, discussed, and compared by simulation results. For the latter case, a formula for computing the error associated with the approximation used, is also presented.<>