A novel framework for simulation-based optimisation of maintenance systems

The maintenance function in manufacturing has been gaining growing interest and significance. Simulation based optimisation has a high potential in supporting maintenance managers to make the right decisions in complex maintenance systems. Surveys in maintenance optimisation have repeatedly reported the need of a framework that provides adequate level of details to guide both academics and practitioners in optimising maintenance systems. The purpose of the current study is to address this gap by developing a novel framework that supports decision making for maintenance in manufacturing systems. The framework is developed by synthesising research attempts to optimise maintenance by simulation, examining existing maintenance optimisation frameworks and capturing framework requirements from review papers in the area as well as publications on future maintenance applications. As a result, the framework addresses current issues in maintenance such as complexity, multi-objective optimisation and uncertainty. The framework is represented by a standard flowchart to facilitate its use.