Smart tools for smart maintenance

It has been estimated that around 50% of flight-delays due to engine problems can be traced back to maintenance errors, and the majority of such errors can be categorized simply in terms of 'omissions', or 'incorrect installations'. Companies have been tagging items with radio frequency identification (RFID) tags for product tracking, and have begun to look into their use for maintenance management. In this paper, we extend the notion of tagging objects to include the tools used to perform maintenance activity. Thus, a tool could be fitted with an RFID tag and sensors to indicate not only when it was used but also how it was being used. Combining this data with the person ID and location, provides potential input to a sophisticated paperless maintenance logging system. This paper demonstrates the concept and shows how it can function and be used. It is suggested that the system can support not only logging but also error-management and training. For example, if we know the procedure to be followed, then it is a simple matter to spot when the activity of the person deviates from the procedure. Implications for maintenance management and human error are discussed.