Product modelling for model-based maintenance

The paper describes the fundamental concepts of maintenance and the role that information technology can play in the support of maintenance activities. Function-Behaviour-State modelling is used to describe faults and deterioration of mechanisms in terms of user perception and measurable quantities. Fault diagnosis, repair and maintenance strategies are explained briefly. Model-based Maintenance is discussed in terms of inspection, monitoring, diagnosis and planning, based on functional, behavioural and state models. Some examples of mechanisms illustrate the advantage of using computer-based models as a reference for fault diagnosis. Underlying techniques like qualitative physics, tolerance analysis, and dynamic simulation are discussed. The proposed method is aiming at functionally robust designs, reduction of preventive maintenance cost and more effective fault diagnosis.