Application of Fault Tree Analysis for Predictive Reliability in Electronically Controlled Brushed Motors

This paper outlines the use of using an Analytical Fault Tree model to predict the reliability of a brushed DC motor using control electronics and software for an automatic open and close control. The use of predictive reliability used in the up front design shows where the emphasis on design improvement needs to be focused. This analytical tool also provides the occurrence numbers needed when we start working on the DFMEA. This type of analysis has been validated by actual test data supporting the prediction with virtually no failures of the system at 1 life in service.