Modeling maintenance-strategies with rainbow nets

The Rainbow net (RN) modeling technique offers a promising alternative to traditional reliability modeling techniques. RNs are evaluated through discrete event simulation. Using specialized tokens to represent systems and faults, an RN models the fault-handling behavior of an inventory of systems produced over time. In addition, a portion of the RN represents system repair and the vendor's spare part production. Various dependability parameters are measured and used to calculate the impact of four variations of maintenance strategies. Input variables are chosen to demonstrate the technique. The number of inputs allowed to vary is intentionally constrained to limit the volume of data presented and to avoid overloading the reader with complexity. If only availability data were reviewed, it is possible that the conclusion might be drawn that both strategies are about the same and therefore the cheaper strategy from the vendor's perspective may be chosen. The richer set of metrics provided by the RN simulation gives greater insight into the problem, which leads to better decisions. By using RNs, the impact of several different variables is integrated.<
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