| Event Tree Analysis - ETA a website created by Relex Software Corporation
An event tree is a visual representation of all the events which can occur in a system. As the number of events increases, the picture fans out like the branches of a tree. Event trees can be used to analyze systems in which all components are continuously operating, or for systems in which some or all of the components are in standby mode those that involve sequential operational logic and switching. The starting point (referred to as the initiating event) disrupts normal system operation. The event tree displays the sequences of events involving success and/or failure of the system components. In the case of standby systems and in particular, safety and mission-oriented systems, the event tree is used to identify the various possible outcomes of the system following a given initiating event which is generally an unsatisfactory operating event or situation. In the case of continuously operated systems, these events can occur (i.e., components can fail) in any arbitrary order. In the event tree analysis, the components can be considered in any order since they do not operate chronologically with respect to each other. Event Tree ExampleA simple example of an event tree is shown below. This event tree was constructed to analyze the possible outcomes of a system fire. The system has 2 components designed to handle this event: a sprinkler system and an automated call to the fire department. If the fire department is not notified, the fire will be mostly contained by the sprinkler system. If the sprinkler system fails as well, the system will be destroyed. The goal of an event tree is to determine the probability of an event based on the outcomes of each event in the chronological sequence of events leading up to it. By analyzing all possible outcomes, you can determine the percentage of outcomes which lead to the desired result. Using Event Tree with Reliability SoftwareRelex Software Corporation produces software that enables users to easily design event trees and perform ETA quickly and easily. It allows you to enter the probability or frequency of each separate branch, and calculate the reliability of all possible outcomes in the event tree. Relex Software is a leader in R&M (Reliability and Maintainability) software analysis tools. We specialize in software, training courses, and seminars covering all aspects of reliability engineering. Our products are used by thousands of engineers worldwide in a variety of businesses. For More InformationPlease visit the Links page for more online information about the Relex Software visual reliability software modules, and about event tree analyses in general. If you are a Relex user, thank you for your support. If you are evaluating our software for future use, we hope to welcome you soon to RELiability EXcellence with Relex. Contact Us Phone: 724.836.8800 Copyright © 2001, Relex Software Corporation. All Rights Reserved. |