Analytical techniques for diagnostic functional allocation

The allocation of maintenance system elements to accomplish the diagnostic mission must be optimized to balance performance, size, weight, and cost. The authors discuss techniques used to create a functional dependency model of a subject system and derive an effectiveness and cost model for the diagnostic system. It is concluded that the diagnostic elements of a weapon system may be designed properly through the use of dependency models and adherence to a structured system engineering process. The critical process of functional allocation is the trade-off of diagnostic performance against operational system efficiencies. Models which have been created for this purpose assist the system engineer in the allocation and design processes, document the results for updates and changes, and help to achieve an optimized system design