Model-based reasoning for fault isolation

The author attempts to explore the promise or limitations of a model-based reasoning approach for a system of practical size and complexity. Specifically, a target system was chosen which contained the order of a hundred components and featured complex feedback looping. A prototype fault isolation system has been developed for the system. Features of the prototype system include analog feedback loops, components modeled by piecewise linear functions, measurement selection based on a priori known failure-rate and observation data, and identification of minimal single- or multiple-fault candidates and their probabilities at any time during fault isolation