AN AXIOMATIC APPROACH TO MODELS OF ACCELERATED LIFE TESTING

In this paper an axiomatic approach to accelerated life testing is presented. It generalizes the transformation approach of Viertl. We are able to prove general results for the axiomatic approach under weak conditions. Several well-known models are covered by the axiomatic approach, e.g. the scale transformation model, Cox's model, step stress and damage accumulation theory. Using the axiomatic approach a theory of nonlinear damage accumulation and a model for accelerated life testing for crack propagation are developed.