Time dependent performance analysis of a Smart Trash bin using state-based Markov model and Reliability approach

In this paper, the authors have developed a quantitative mathematical model to assess the performance of a smart trash bin. This model takes into account six hardware components of the trash bin, including Arduino Uno, ultrasonic sensor, servo motor, switch, battery, jumper wires utilizing Markov modelling and reliability-based approach. The objective of this model is to facilitate timely planning of repair and maintenance activities, ensuring prolonged availability of the smart trash bin after identifying the weakest component/components of the system.

The efficient functioning of all components in the smart trash bin is imperative for the timely transmission of the garbage level data to the municipal corporation. To achieve this, the paper focuses on evaluating key reliability metric for smart trash bin system, specifically reliability, unreliability, and Mean time to Failure (MTTF). The modelling approach employs a state-based Markov model, from which Kolmogorov differential equations are derived and subsequently solved using Laplace transformation. After collecting data from organization and experts of the field explicit expression for system reliability, unreliability and MTTF have been obtained.

Furthermore, this study includes sensitivity analysis of the system to pinpoint critical components which is switch and servo motor, requiring attention for proper maintenance. The research finding indicates that reliability and MTTF of the system diminish as the failure rate of the components increase under certain conditions.