Optimal condition control of systems of multiple semi-identical components

Authors

Kazuyoshi Nishijima and Michael H. Faber

Abstract

The optimization of the condition control of engineering systems which are comprised of a large number of semi-identical components is considered. Since it is not feasible to inspect all components in such systems, the decisions for control and maintenance activities must be based on inspection results of a limited number of components. In this connection the decisions in regard to when sufficient information has been collected and in what maintenance activities to pursue is of particular interest. In the present paper, a Bayesian approach is proposed for identifying a criterion for when sufficient information has been collected to support decision making in regard to maintenance activities employing the theory of sequential decision making. Two examples are given to illustrate how the proposed approach may be implemented into practical applications.

Published by/in

Proceedings 13th IFIP TC7 WG 7.5 Working Conference on Reliability and Optimization of Structural Systems, Kobe, Japan, October 11-14, 2006.