Abstract: A method for estimating the cost of a system over its predetermined life cycle includes estimating refresh and non-refresh costs for the system over its life cycle. By estimating the refresh cost, such a method allows one to select the most cost-effective implementation for the system by comparing the costs of different implementations. For example, if the system is to be installed in a submarine, one can select the most cost-effective system configuration for a given refresh rate, where the refresh rate coincides with the intervals at which the submarine is in port for service. Or, for a given system configuration, one can determine the most cost-effective refresh rate, and thus select the most cost-effective interval for servicing the submarine.

Abstract: A method for estimating the cost of a system over its predetermined life cycle is provided. The method includes estimating refresh and non-refresh costs for the system over its life cycle. By estimating the refresh cost, such a method allows one to select the most cost-effective implementation for the system by comparing the costs of different implementations. For example, if the system is to be installed in a submarine, one can select the most cost-effective system configuration for a given refresh rate, where the refresh rate coincides with the intervals at which the submarine is in port for service. Or, for a given system configuration, one can determine the most cost-effective refresh rate, and thus select the most cost-effective interval for servicing the submarine.

Abstract: A method estimates a refresh parameter for a system having a life cycle and an affect that the refresh parameter has on the system. By estimating a refresh parameter, such a method provides one with a refresh strategy for achieving a system implementation, such as the most cost-effective implementation. For example, one can determine the most cost-effective system configuration for a given refresh strategy. Or, for a given system configuration, one can determine the most cost-effective refresh strategy. Alternatively, one determine the most cost-effective combination of refresh strategy and configuration.