DEVELOPMENT OF A LOGICAL DEDUCTIVE FAULT DIAGNOSTIC-TECHNIQUE FOR REAL-TIME APPLICATION

This paper presents a methodology for the development of a logical and deductive fault diagnostic technique for a real time application. Fau lt Diagnosis, especially in a complex engineering system by maintenanc e engineers Of any discipline demands a logical procedure backed by a sound deductive and analytical technique. Many times, it is possible f or experienced mechanics to diagnose faults based on personal expertis e and heuristic, however this becomes increasingly difficult if the sy stem under consideration is a complex engineering system needing exper tise in various fields for its fault diagnosis. Unorganized and inexpe rienced approach in such a situation may result in time wastage before the actual fault localization, or it may even result in the actual fa ult going undetected. It is therefore very important to develop a logi cal and deductive diagnostic procedure that can be applied to any real time situation. The methodology demonstrated in this paper makes use of various tools, to enhance the system's reliability and maintainabil ity. The Diagnostic Decision Diagram developed as a result of the tech nique provides a series of tests to be performed, in order (on the sub system and components), to identify the malfunctioning subsystem or co mponent, and to provide necessary repair instructions. The methodology for development of the logical and deductive fault diagnosis techniqu e can be augmented for use in almost any complex engineering system to enhance its reliability and maintainability.