A performance-driven framework with a system-of-systems approach for augmented asset management of railway system

Abstract

The railway system is a complex technical system-of-systems (SoS). To address the complexity of the railway system, a holistic approach is needed that facilitates the development of an appropriate asset management regime. A systems-of-systems (SoS) approach considers the complex nature of the railway system, comprising interconnected subsystems like rolling stock and infrastructure. Neglecting these interdependencies risks sub-optimization of the overall system performance. Asset management of the railway system utilising a SoS approach ensures the focus of asset management on overall system requirements. The efficiency and effectiveness of the railway system is based on aspects such as availability, reliability, and safety performance. To enhance these aspects, monitoring, and improvement of key performance indicators (KPIs) emphasizing increased capacity and reduced operational costs is essential. The KPIs offer quantifiable parameters for performance optimization. Augmenting asset management through data-driven technologies can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of asset management. However, challenges persist in the implementation of data-driven solutions due to the railway system’s complexity and lack of a holistic perspective. A systematic performance-driven framework with a system-of-systems approach for augmented asset management of railway system provides handrail for the utilisation of data-driven technologies with railway system requirements at the centre while developing an asset management regime. The proposed framework aims to establish a clear relationship between system KPIs, and the performance of sub-systems and components aiding railway organizations in asset management design and implementation. This paper explains the important components of the proposed framework and demonstrates the application the framework for asset management and maintenance planning of high value components in the fleet of railway rolling stock. Adoption of the proposed framework is expected to enhance asset management through development and implementation of data-driven solutions that are aligned with system KPIs, to support asset management decision making.