Introduction to reliability engineering

This unit explores the importance of reliability engineering, with emphasis on mechanical systems. It provides an overview of basic statistical analysis and the evaluation and management of the reliability of a system. Additionally, it also provides an overview of product lifecycle management.

The following will be studied:

• Introduction to reliability engineering
• Basic probability and distribution functions
• Probability plotting
• Reliability and rate of failure
• Reliability prediction and modelling
• Reliability of mechanical components and systems
• Maintainability and availability
• Fundamentals of product lifecycle management
• Product lifecycle management systems
• Deployment of the product lifecycle management system.

Reliability is the probability that a system will perform its function over a specified period of time and under specified operating conditions. In reliability engineering, the primary focus is on failures and their prevention. Reliability of a system needs to be addressed at every stage of the system development, including design, manufacturing, testing and maintenance.

Processes that make up different phases of the product lifecycle, as well as the general architecture of a product lifecycle management system, will also be discussed.