Title: Optimal redundancy allocation for a reliability-based total cost of ownership model using genetic algorithm

Authors: G. Kanagaraj, N. Jawahar

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai 625 015, India. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai 625 015, India

Abstract: System engineering principles suggest that the best design is one that can maximise the system operational effectiveness and minimise the total cost of ownership. This paper addresses a Reliability-Based Total Cost of Ownership (RBTCO) model for allocation of reliability that can minimise the total cost of ownership. A genetic algorithm based heuristic is developed to provide an optimal or a near-optimal solution to the RBTCO model. The model presented in this paper will be useful for designing new products, especially electronic products. This model will also enable the manufacturers to establish a guarantee period. The requirement of spares can also be estimated and their availability can be ensured.

Keywords: TCO; total cost of ownership; product reliability; heuristics; genetic algorithms; GAs; redundancy allocation; optimisation; electronic products; product design; guarantee periods; spares availability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRS.2011.039301

International Journal of Reliability and Safety, 2011 Vol.5 No.2, pp.158 - 181

Published online: 31 Mar 2015 *

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