Optimization of systems life-cycle performance

This research proposal is concerned with the analysis and optimization of systems performance over their life-cycle: from the design stage to the recovery and reuse stage. In a context of increased competition and rationalization, performance gains can ensure competitiveness, profitability and increase customer service. Particularly, this research program focuses on modeling and optimizing the performance for systems subjected to random failures in an environment-friendly context. Systems performance is defined and evaluated as one or the combination of several of the following indicators: reliability, availability, maintainability, energy consumption, quality, etc. This performance is affected by the system's design, production and assembly processes, distribution, operating environment, integrated logistics, maintenance, etc. It is therefore required to model the system in order to identify the main factors which reduce its performance and develop decision-tools for the selection of performance improvement actions. Research actions will be dedicated to defining the performance factors and their assessment at different stages in the life-cycle. Which should, subsequently, help analyzing and modeling the system behavior. This research program consists of 6 main topics: 1-Development of performance monitoring, assessment and optimization models. 2- Reliability and availability modeling for multi-components systems subjected to random failures. 3-Provisioning strategies integrating the recent development of connective technologies. 4- Maintenance strategies combining the use of new and reconditioned replacement parts. 5- Development of decision-making models and tools for the selection of optimal recovery options for retired systems. 6- Life Cycle Engineering.