Generic software tool to improve diagnostic systems by feedback of field experience data

The feedback analyzer (FA), developed as part of the Integrated Diagnostic Support System, is described. This tool aims to provide a closed-loop solution to improve the weapon system diagnostic capability, thus lowering life cycle cost and increasing weapon system availability. The FA uses fault isolation session data recorded at the deployed weapon system sites and engineering design analysis data to determine deviations, trends, environmental impact, and site differences. Preliminary statistical analyses are performed to obtain overall observations of the weapon system status and to yield suspect data groups. Detailed analyses are applied to the suspect data groups to determine the causes of the deviations. Decision support logic is then applied to provide the user with a set of recommendations. The FA recommendations can be: to add tests and/or rules to improve fault isolation (FI) resolution and FI time/cost, update logistic/testability information; and add technical or training information. The FA tool also provides the capabilities of performing self-evaluation over a given period and of customizing the analysis