Ubiquitous computing for dynamic condition-based maintenance

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe a flexible architecture concept to provide a ubiquitous computing framework where condition-based maintenance (CBM) data and information can be easily accessed, and maintenance decisions may be performed wherever required.Design methodology approach - The architecture is based on a platform of intelligent web services, and logically structured decision layers based on the open systems architecture for CBM definition, from condition monitoring to decision support, and provides automated extraction of results. The application of web services is demonstrated, first related with an original vision on the adoption of mobile devices for dynamic maintenance management solutions, and then with a more conventional web-based predictive maintenance management system.Findings - Scenarios for the upgrade of existing preventive maintenance practices towards condition-based strategies are sufficiently different to require customised solutions. A web-based platform can work with such differences in a cost-effective way.Research limitations implications - Further research can expand the actual platform by embedding new complementary web services.Practical implications - Condition-based strategies can provide clear savings in many maintenance activities. The platform described will provide the necessary flexibility to industrial users to manage the volume of data and information needed in CBM.Originality value - The platform is flexible enough to provide intelligent processing "on-demand" and ubiquitously, with a three-level configuration of web services, agents and interfaces that facilitates interoperability with existing legacy systems. Finally, the platform can grow according to the needs of the user (e.g. new information, increased knowledge on the process, new measurements, etc.).