Rules for modelling in computer-aided fault tree synthesis

In the design of process plants safety has assumed an increasingly high profile. One of the techniques used in hazard identification is the fault tree, which involves first the synthesis of the tree and then its analysis. The construction of a fault tree, however, requires special skills and can be a time-consuming process. It is therefore attractive to develop computer aids for the synthesis stage to match those which already exist for the analysis of the tree. A computer based system for fault tree synthesis has been developed at Loughborough University. This thesis is part of a continuing programme of work associated with this facility. [Continues.]