Toward FMEA and MBSE Integration

Abstract

This paper explores the FMEA and Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) integration by generating Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) as a model, named Model Based FMEA (MBFMEA) then discusses the possibility of integrating MBFMEA with MBSE using the tools such as System Modeling Language (SysML). The paper focuses on design FMEA. It first overviews the current FMEA approach widely used by Reliability Engineering community, then analyzes key FMEA elements imposed by some widely used FMEA standards such as US Department of Defense (DOD) and NASA's, and explore the modeling possibility for the key FMEA elements. The capability and applicability of SysML with its nine diagrams are reviewed and their relevance and usages are mapped to support MBFMEA creation. The usefulness and benefits of MBFMEA and its integration with MBSE/SysML are discussed. With the MBFMEA and its integration with MBSE/SysML, FMEA will become a much more effective and efficient reliability process to support Design-for-Reliability (DFR), Model-Based Systems Engineering, and Model-Based Mission Assurance (MBMA) activities.