Reliability and aging properties of novel nonparametric lifetime distribution classes

This paper introduces novel nonparametric classes of lifetime distributions characterized by the shape of the failure rate function. Particular reputable parametric distributions are examined to lie within these novel classes. Preservation property of one of these classes under order statistics is established. An empirical estimator of the failure rate ratio is proposed and in a simulation study, its attributes are explored. Then, a data set of strength of glass fibers is analyzed.