Functional failure

What are functional failures

Functional failures are non-fulfilment of wanted component functions.

Types

There are two functional failure categories:

• Failure mode
• Interface destruction

Qualification of new technology must analyse both categories. Performance of the OPERA during the conceptual design phase includes both categories at a coarse level. Performance of the FMECA during the detail design phase includes a detailed analysis of the failure modes. Functional failures are often found in the interface between modules designed by different suppliers due to inadequate interaction during design and testing. Always include interfacing components in simulations, functional structures (how it works), functional block diagrams, assembly drawings and testing programs.