Title: A conceptual framework for analysing, improving and optimising supportability of mechanical systems

Authors: Mohammad Asjad; Makarand S. Kulkarni; O.P. Gandhi

Addresses: Industrial Tribology, Machine Dynamics and Maintenance Engineering Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi), Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi), Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India. ' Industrial Tribology, Machine Dynamics and Maintenance Engineering Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi), Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India

Abstract: Supportability for a user is the ability of the support provider to execute all the required activities for upkeep of the system in the most effective, efficient and timely manner throughout the system's operating life. From the support provider's perspective, design, maintenance services and logistics along with appropriate contract help in delivering the required support in a profitable manner. However, from the user's point of view, apart from uninterrupted availability of the product, the life cycle cost (LCC) associated with the product is of immense importance. Hence, a tradeoff between the supportability and the corresponding LCC is to be achieved. Although a vast amount of literature is available on the subject, yet an integrated approach that considers all parameters affecting supportability and LCC in obtaining an optimal solution needs to be developed. This paper presents a framework for analysing supportability along with a proposed methodology that can help in arriving at the optimal solution.

Keywords: product support; supportability; support providers; support channels; contract alternatives; life cycle costing; LCC; product life cycle.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSEAM.2012.050918

International Journal of Strategic Engineering Asset Management, 2012 Vol.1 No.2, pp.135 - 152

Published online: 23 Aug 2014 *

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