Matrix FMEA is the most powerful design optimization tool.  Inputs, design elements, and causes are prioritized against the intended functions, primary functions, primary failure modes, and the effects.  Inputs are prioritized for improvement.  The risky design elements are identified.  Functions that are most likely to degrade/change are clearly shown.  Root and degradation cause become visual and they can be mitigated and removed.  

The relational matrix presents clear prioritization of which functions will degrade first, which primary failure modes will occur first, and which effects are most likely to occur.  The matrix also shows why these changes will take place.  The Criticality matrix performs the high-risk analysis.  Criticality drives design improvements.  The RPN matrix clarifies which tests need to be improved (function capability, function degradation, fault injection, and test to failure).  

The 7FM Matrix FMEA is a living document.  Once it is completed, it takes minutes to perform a complete cause and effect analysis for any effect.  Matrix FMEA produces incredibly fast and powerful solutions.  If a new cause is found, it is one new row in the matrix and can be evaluated in minutes.  If a new effect is found, it is one column in the matrix and can be added and analyzed in minutes.  Standard problem-solving teams and methods are no longer required.

Overview of 7FM DFMEA

7FM Matrix FMEA

• 7FM DFMEA Training Topics, plus
• Function architecture for components, assemblies, and systems
• Function natural language definitions
• Function technical definitions
• Function requirements
• Performance specifications
• Design Inputs
• Design Elements
• Design Degradation Factors and Causes
• The intended output and primary outputs
• The primary failure modes, the primary effects
• The temporal fault state map and how it relates to system fault detection, time to detect, time to recovery, and safety mechanisms
• Correlating inputs, elements and degradation factors to intended outputs, primary failure modes, and effects.
• The design relational matrix
• The design criticality matrix
• The design RPN matrix
• Reducing risk of occurrence (true quality improvement): Recommended Actions for inputs, elements, and degradation factors
• Reducing risk of escape: Validating design capability, function degradation testing, fault injection testing, failure-based testing
• Validating system fault detection, time to detect, and time to recover controls