Simulation and scenarios

Using the simulation module of Asset Strategy Optimization, a user can use a copy (scenario) of an FMECA System to model behavior under different circumstances of a (sub)system. The simulation model that is created starts off as copy of the FMECA System. It then lives separated from its 'parent'. No change made to the simulation model will affect the 'parent' system. Asset Strategy Optimization does remember which FMECA system was used as the originator of the simulation model. As long as the 'parent' FMECA System is not deleted, the user can navigate to the parent from the simulation model.

The simulation model can be changed and expanded at will, making it suitable for different simulated situations to reach an optimal maintenance concept. A simulation model that has been optimized successfully can be copied back to the FMECA system (as whole or partly). The results of the modeled maintenance concepts can be viewed in reports and compared.

Operation

A model is calculated via a statistical simulation known as the "Operation of the simulation on the basis of the 'Monte Carlo' method".

Simulating

A simulation model is created based on a scenario from within the FMECA Systems screen. The objects (see Objects in Asset Strategy Optimization) of an FMECA tree in Asset Strategy Optimization also plays a key role in the simulation model and can be considered as the building blocks. Topic "Input for simulation" describes per object how its data affects simulation. With its large variety of parameters, Asset Strategy Optimization provides many options to model "real-life" situations, which help failure and maintenance behavior approach in reality. By linking objects together and defining how they influence one another, it is possible to simulate complete production lines and even plants.

Simulation rules

Simulation is performed following a set of programmed rules. Details about these rules can be found in the topic Simulation rules explained.

Input

A simulation is run based on a large number of parameters, located in all the objects of the simulation model. These parameters can be divided into two basic categories:

• Failure data - Failure data describe how objects in a simulation model fail.

• Maintenance data - Maintenance data describe how objects are maintained.

Because rules apply to parameters, before starting a simulation it should first be validated. More explanation about failure and maintenance data is describe in topic "Input for simulation". Here, the parameters that influence the simulation are also described.

Output

The simulation data are stored in Asset Strategy Optimization. Reports supply detailed information about the simulation results. Topic "Output" describes all available reports.