Development of an algorithm for automated cause-consequence diagram construction.

Cause-consequence analysis is one of the best tools available for a comprehensive reliability study. The cause-consequence diagram (CCD) method, like fault tree analysis, represents the failure logic of the system, but in addition the CCD also identifies the complete set of consequences following a given initiating event. While there are well-developed commercialized software packages for fault tree evaluation and construction, no satisfactory methodology has been published for automated cause-consequence chart synthesis. Hence this paper outlines the development of an algorithm for automated causeconsequence diagram construction. The algorithm builds on methods developed previously for fault tree construction, such as topology diagrams, describing how components are linked together in a system, and component decision tables which model component behaviour. Using this information rules have been developed which enable the construction of the CCD. Once constructed the diagram can be quantified to give exact system reliability. To demonstrate the construction the algorithm is applied to a simple example.