A7.4 Explain the analysis, assessment and improvement of system failures and system reliability with the use of calculations

Question 1

What is the meaning of the term ‘system’?

Answer 1

• A group of interacting, interrelated or interdependent elements forming a complex whole
• A set or arrangement of things so related or connected as to form a unity or organic whole

Question 2

What is meant by a holistic approach and reductionist approach to system failure analysis?

Answer 2

• A Holistic approach requires looking at the behavior of the total system rather than the isolated workings of individual components. Trying to understand all the interactions between the separate components as they work together as a whole.
• A reductionist approach is when the system is divided into its components for individual analysis to identify system or subsystem failures