Inspection interval for maximum future reliability using the delay time model (Q1308884)

The main problem addressed, the so-called `Converse Problem', is the determination of the optimal regular inspection interval given the number of inspections, which will result in maximum reliability at some future point in time. The general reliability model developed by Christer is used in which the notion of delay time is involved, representing the span of time from when a defect is first detectable upon inspection to when it is considered to have failed. If a defect is found at an inspection then the component is replaced or repaired to an as new condition and thus avoiding a failure. Inspections are assumed to be non-detrimental. The model has been solved in principle for any two densities of delay time and time to failure from new. The numerical method used has been further developed to allow a solution of the Converse Problem stated above. When costs are taken into consideration it has been shown that the inspection interval can both be determined so that one can obtain the maximum reliability at least cost, at some future point in time.