Factor classification

For FMECA it is common practice to create classifications for the time periods MTTF and Repair duration, and to link these to a weighting factor. The weighting factor defines the importance of certain failure causes for one of the business objectives. This mechanism is called Factor Classification. The classification is performed on the System level. An example is shown in the screenshot below.

Defining a Classification

A classification consists of a time period (defined in hours, weeks, months or years) and a weighting factor (any number). The time interval always runs from a certain point in time up until and including another point in time (t(1) < X < = t(2)). The time interval will automatically be adjusted to a newly entered time interval, so they will always be connected.

Tip: When entering time periods, it is advised to work from 'low' to 'high'. As the example below indicates: By adding a period of 8 hours Asset Strategy Optimization will automatically create the periods 0 Hours < X <= 8 Hours. The next classification of 48 hours will automatically change the period to 8 Hours < X <= 48 Hours.

Configuring Factor Classification

To configure Factor Classification for a system, proceed as follows:

1. Open the FMECA Systems screen

2. Select a FMECA system for which to configure factor classification (in the left pane)

3. Right click on the FMECA System

4. Select 'Factor Classifications' in the quick menu

   The following screen appears (the screen below already contains classifications):
   
   
   

5. Choose a factor to configure (choose from MTTF and Repair Duration).

   The factor MTTF represents the Mean Time To Failure as defined on the level of the failure cause in the FMECA system. The Repair Duration was derived from the field Repair Duration on the level of the maintenance actions in the FMECA system. By changing between the factor types the screen will be updated showing the table with classifications and weighting factors for that factor type.

6. Click the New button to add a new classification. Apply the tip described above at Defining a classification
   
   

7. Repeat step 6 until all classifications have been defined. Optionally remove undesired classifications using the button Delete

8. Press the the OK button to save and close the screen.

To make changes to the classifications, the detail screen of that classification can be opened by double clicking it.

A report of the classifications can be created by pressing the print button.

Note. This procedure is identical for MTTF and Repair Duration.