A Cloud Based Framework for Lean Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul of Complex Equipment

Abstract

Large, complex, expensive, and longlived equipment often operate in harsh environments, which leads to the requirements of lifecycle maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO). To support the continuous improvement of productivity and to reduce the cost of MRO, this paper developed a cloudbased framework for lean MRO of the equipment with the aforementioned characteristics. A concept and a model of lean MRO are proposed. Taking advantage of cloudbased design and manufacturing (CBDM) into account, an architectural framework of cloudbased MRO is proposed. A case of a lean MRO for continuous casting equipment demonstrates that the proposed cloudbased framework can achieve the goal of lean MRO of complex equipment.