Analytical Approach to Meeting Reliability and Confidence Requirements of Automotive Steering Systems

Meeting reliability requirements specified by customers, solely by physical testing can result in serious resource implications. Demonstration of a high reliability at a high statistical confidence level requires a large number of test samples and lengthy test cycles. In this paper we intend to present our reliability management methodology that accounts for both physical testing and non-physical testing activities. In particular, we will focus on how three important product dimensions - namely, function, physical structure, and time-in-service requirements - are systematically examined and tied to validation test planning. The ultimate goal here is intelligent information management.