Abstract: Initial assumptions related to the service life of a particular item, such as a component section of a building, are mathematically modeled to construct an initial lifecycle condition relationship as condition index (CI) v. time. To update the model, empirical data may be input at any time. As modeled in an engineering management system, for example, inspections are performed on the item to verify actual condition with that predicted. Quantitative inspection data are then used to update the initial curve. As inspections are performed and data recorded, the curve is updated to accurately capture observed condition and provide realistic estimates of predicted condition, and expected service life. In select embodiments of the present invention, empirical data, such as that from inspections, are weighted, e.g., inspection data may be weighted based on type, level of detail, time in service, time since last inspection and the like.

Abstract: A top-down tiered process establishes an objective measure of the functional capacity of an asset to address a specified use. The process comprises: developing Issue Categories and lists of functional impact Sub-issue Types and specific issues under each type that may impact functionality of the asset for a specified use; providing the list to evaluators; employing evaluators to evaluate functionality, evaluators assigning a numerical Severity measure to each Sub-issue Type present during the evaluation; recording occurrences of issues under each Sub-issue Type discovered, summing occurrences to determine a Density of each Sub-issue Type; recording the evaluation in one or more engineering management systems (EMS); and using the recorded evaluation, calculating a value to be inserted on a numerical scale as a functionality index, FI. In select embodiments of the present invention, a numerical scale is used with values from 0-100.

Abstract: A knowledge-based condition survey inspection (KBSCI) framework and procedure for use with an engineering management system (EMS) that tailors types of condition survey inspections (CSIs) and inspection intervals to empirically-established life cycles of component-sections. Embodiments of the invention facilitate proactive life cycle management, scheduling appropriate types of CSIs only when needed. The frequency and type of inspection is tailored to items important to a facility manager, such as the importance to the operation of individual component-sections and their individual life cycle, not the overall life cycle of a system or facility. Further, additional useful information is available from the data collected to maintain embodiments of the KBCSI framework so that meaningful “What-If” analysis may be performed in support of decision makers. By tailoring CSIs to needs rather than an arbitrary inspection schedule designed to only catch deficiencies, significant life cycle cost savings are realized.