This is quality plan for a ruggedized computer system to be used in Tamar lifeboat. This system consists of CPU, screen, keyboard and mouse. It uses methods such as quality function deployment (QFD), failure mode effects analysis (FMEA), reliability analysis, quality standards, ergonomics and redundancy to establish the quality of the system. Furthermore, it seeks to establish if the system fulfils the requirements of the customers.
Customer Specifications
The customer requires the rugged computer system to operate in a salt environment without elements of corrosion. Besides, the component of the system should be water resistant (splash proof). Since lifeboats are used in the rough seas and in environments with extreme temperatures …show more content…
This also means that the reliability of this system will be lower than the reliability of the component with the least reliability. Moreover, as more components are added to this system, its reliability will decrease.
Mean Time before Failure (MTBF)
Due to the improved wear-levelling algorithms, the rugged computer system is able to withstand intense vibration and shock environments. Besides, it is able to survive the severe environmental hazards common to lifeboats. This means that it has higher MTBF (100,000 hours and above) compared to personal computers (30,000-50,000 hours).
Quality Standards
Several statutory specifications apply to this system. A good example of such a statutory specification is the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). According to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), EMC is ability of a system to function in an acceptable manner in its electromagnetic environment without introducing unbearable electromagnetic disturbances to that