Seong-woo Woo1, Dennis L. O'Neal2, and Michael Pecht3
1Faculty of Mech. Eng., Ethiopian Technical University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
2Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7356, USA
3Center for Advanced Life Cycle Engineering (CALCE), University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
For more information about this article and related research, please contact Prof. Michael Pecht
Abstract:
Parametric accelerated life testing (ALT) with the reliability quantitative (RQ) statements is offered as a reliability methodology to identify and rectify design flaws. The methodology includes: (1) BX lifetime with ALT scheme, (2) fatigue design, (3) ALTs with alterations, and (4) discernment whether the design(s) obtains targeted BX life. A quantum/transport-based life-stress prototype and sample size for generating RQ specifications were suggested. The equivalent elevated damage potential in parametric ALT was applied, represented by a field power spectral density (PSD). A case study was used to evaluate refrigerator fatigue failures that occurred during rail transport. In the 1st ALT, for RQ specifications, the refrigerator tubes made of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber fractured because of the compressor mount design. The failure in the 1st ALT was similar to those found from failed refrigerators in the field. After the compressor mounts and tubes were redesigned, there were no difficulties during the 2nd ALT. The refrigerator was then assured to fulfil a B1 lifetime for required travel distance.
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