Fuzzy-Set Approach to Select Maintenance Strategies for Multistate Equipment

Maintenance of any equipment based on its condition is unavoidable. The condition of the equipment can be represented using fuzzy sets. This paper details a fuzzy-set model for maintenance policy of multistate equipment; the model is based on: A) equipment condition and remaining life, and b) maximizing a known detailed utility function. The model is extended to maintenance planning for the entire life of the equipment. The results are useful for replacement decisions as well as for inventory control. © 1994 IEEE