A lifecycle cost model considering both component and system burn-in for operationally unrepairable systems

Abstract

Purpose

This study presents a lifecycle cost model considering multi-level burn-in for operationally unrepairable systems including assembly and warranty costs. A numerical method to obtain system reliability under component replacement during burn-in is also presented with derived error bounds.

Design/methodology/approach

The final system reliability after component and system burn-in is obtained and warranty costs are computed. On failure during operation, the system is replaced with another that undergoes an identical burn-in procedure. Cost behaviours for a small and large system are shown in a numerical example.

Findings

There are more cost savings when system burn-in is conducted for a large system whereas a strategy focusing on component burn-in only can also result in cost savings for small systems. In addition, a minimum system burn-in duration is required before cost savings are achieved for these operationally unrepairable systems.

Originality/value

The operationally unrepairable system is a niche class of systems which small satellites fall under and no such study has been conducted before. The authors present a different approach towards the testing of small satellites for a constellation mission.

Citation

Teo, K.H., Tai, K., Schena, V. and Simonini, L. (2022), "A lifecycle cost model considering both component and system burn-in for operationally unrepairable systems", International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, Vol. 39 No. 9, pp. 2081-2103. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJQRM-03-2021-0073