Toward a new definition of FMECA approach

It is well known that Failure Mode Effect Analysis methodology (FMEA) allows to reduce, and if it possible eliminate, the effects of potential failure modes starting from the first stage of the product design. By means of the Criticality Analysis (CA), implemented in FMECA, it is possible to select by means of risk indexes the most potential critical failures. In this paper the authors present the pros and cons of FMECA along the product development cycle based on the existing standards, recommending the most appropriate standard for each development stage. Additionally, the concept of fault mechanisms is introduced through a new hybrid approach to avoid drawbacks of current FMECA. In this way, it will be possible to observe the evolution of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of the system and define the maintenance strategy using the information provided by the suitable monitoring activity.