Inference for reliability and stress-strength for a scaled Burr type X distribution

Inference for R = P(Y < X) is considered when X and Y are independently distributed as scaled Burr type X random variables. Under this model, exact inference procedures for R cannot be found. Hence, based on the expected Fisher information matrix which is derived here, asymptotic inference procedures for R and other general functions of the parameters are developed. A bootstrap method to estimate variance for the maximum likelihood estimators is also discussed. To illustrate these techniques, an example using carbon fiber strength data is given. Simulations to assess the effectiveness of these techniques, as well as other concerns, are presented.