title: Reliability-based optimization of maintenance scheduling of mechanical components under fatigue.
abstract: This study presents the optimization of the maintenance scheduling of mechanical components under fatigue loading. The cracks of damaged structures may be detected during non-destructive inspection and subsequently repaired. Fatigue crack initiation and growth show inherent variability, and as well the outcome of inspection activities. The problem is addressed under the framework of reliability based optimization. The initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks are efficiently modeled using cohesive zone elements. The applicability of the method is demonstrated by a numerical example, which involves a plate with two holes subject to alternating stress.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Engineering Mechanics, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 13, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Beaurepaire
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Valdebenito
authors.forename: G I
authors.initials: GI
authors.lastname: Schuëller
authors.forename: H A
authors.initials: HA
authors.lastname: Jensen
keywords: Cohesive zone element; Crack propagation; Optimal maintenance scheduling; Reliability-based optimization; Sensitivity
references.citation: Eng Fract Mech. 2011 Aug;78(12):2399-2413
references.pmid: 22049246