Diagnostic ability validation methods for prognostics and health management systems in complex systems

Abstract

PHM (Prognostics and Health Management) is a key technology in autonomic logistics equipment. It is also the newest development in the current equipment system, BIT (Built-In Test), because of its condition monitoring abilities. PHM technology marks a transformation from condition monitoring to health management. The PHM design philosophy has also been adopted in the development of new generation military and civilian equipment. In the complex systems of military and civilian equipment, such as electromechanical systems and flight control systems, the PHM design has been adopted as a new function design. The diagnostic capabilities of PHM are its core foundation, and its design level has a direct influence on the overall efficiency of PHM. This influence is mainly reflected in its fault detection capabilities, and its comprehensive processing and analysis capabilities. In order to validate the PHM fault diagnostic design level, we propose a new diagnostic capability validation method for complex systems. Our proposed method is based on testability validation technology, and provides a guideline for technological approaches for PHM diagnostic validation that evaluates the integrity, rationality, and effectiveness of PHM diagnostic capabilities. Moreover, our proposed method can expose design defects and weak links, allowing for an iterative optimal design.