Title: Development of an algorithm for automated cause-consequence diagram construction

Authors: A. Valaityte, S.J. Dunnett, J.D. Andrews

Addresses: Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK. ' Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK. ' Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK

Abstract: Cause-consequence analysis is one of the best tools available for a comprehensive reliability study. The Cause-Consequence Diagram (CCD) method, like fault tree analysis, represents the failure logic of the system, but in addition the CCD also identifies the complete set of consequences following a given initiating event. Despite the clear appeal of this approach to engineers the CCD method has its drawbacks. If the diagram construction and its analysis could be automated it would increase the usefulness of the method. This paper describes the development of an algorithm for automated CCD construction. The algorithm builds on methods developed previously for fault tree construction, such as topology diagrams, component decision tables, etc. Once constructed, the diagram can be quantified to give exact system reliability. To demonstrate the feasibility of the approach the algorithm is applied to a simple example.

Keywords: system reliability; cause-consequence diagram; fault tree analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRS.2010.029564

International Journal of Reliability and Safety, 2010 Vol.4 No.1, pp.46 - 68

Published online: 30 Nov 2009 *

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