A novel approach for modelling complex maintenance systems using discrete event simulation

Abstract

Existing approaches for modelling maintenance rely on oversimplified assumptions which prevent them from reflecting the complexity found in industrial systems. In this paper, we propose a novel approach that enables the modelling of non-identical multi-unit systems without restrictive assumptions on the number of units or their maintenance characteristics. Modelling complex interactions between maintenance strategies and their effects on assets in the system is achieved by accessing event queues in Discrete Event Simulation (DES). The approach utilises the wide success DES has achieved in manufacturing by allowing integration with models that are closely related to maintenance such as production and spare parts systems. Additional advantages of using DES include rapid modelling and visual interactive simulation. The proposed approach is demonstrated in a simulation based optimisation study of a published case. The current research is one of the first to optimise maintenance strategies simultaneously with their parameters while considering production dynamics and spare parts management. The findings of this research provide insights for non-conflicting objectives in maintenance systems. In addition, the proposed approach can be used to facilitate the simulation and optimisation of industrial maintenance systems.

Random preventive maintenance policy based on inspection for a multicomponent system using simulation

“…Although the simulation is well established for representation of the operation of productive systems in general, it is still developing in the maintenance area [3]. Simulation has traditionally been used as a tool to understand and perform experiments with a system.…”

Simulation-based optimisation of maintenance systems: Industrial case studies

“…Therefore, it is suggested to evaluate all applicable maintenance strategies for critical assets in the system. The modelling of industrial systems involving various maintenance strategies was made possible using the modelling approach suggested by the authors [7].…”

“…Maintenance strategies were modelled according to the approach described by the authors [7]. It enables the modelling of non-identical multi-unit manufacturing systems without restrictions on maintenance or manufacturing characteristics ( Figure 1).…”

“…In optimising the industrial maintenance systems, we follow the simulationbased optimisation framework developed by the authors [7]. It provides detailed assistance for optimising maintenance simulation models.…”

Multi-criteria decision methods to support the maintenance management of complex systems

“…As highlighted above, reliability and availability are two common measures of complex system performance, their role being essential in product and service quality (Akhavein and Fotuhi Firuzabad, 2011). Therefore, reliability and availability analyses are fundamental to support the analyst in the implementation of actions addressed to the improvement of the technical and economic performance of the system under investigation (Mi et al, 2016;Chalabi et al, 2016;Alrabghi and Tiwari, 2016). Since reliability and availability analyses are based on the identification of the major system criticalities, reliability relations among components need to be firstly established, and then the set of priority components to be maintained has to be selected.…”