Defects generate a great economic problem for suppliers who are faced with increased duties. Customers expect increased efficiency and dependability of technical product of - also growing - complexity. The authors give an introduction to a theory of dependability for engineers. The book may serve as a reference book as well, enhancing the knowledge of the specialists and giving a lot of theoretical background and practical information, especially on the dependability analysis of whole systems.

The theory, concepts and approaches are well explained by examples and solutions. The topics include: Mathematical basis, Life span distributions, System dependability theory, Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), Fault tree analysis, Dependability test planning, Test evaluation, Calculation of repairable systems, Dependability protection programs.

Professor Bernd Bertsche earned his degree and doctorate in mechanical engineering at the Universitaet Stuttgart. Afterwards, he worked for Mercedes-Benz AG in the passenger car development unit followed by a position as professor at the University of Applied Sciences in Albstadt-Sigmaringen. Later, he was appointed at the Universitaet Stuttgart. Since 2001 Professor Bertsche is the ordinary and head for the Institute of Machine Components at the Universitaet Stuttgart.

Fundamentals of Statistics and Probability Theory.- Reliability Analysis of a Transmission.- FMEA #x02013; Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.- Fault Tree Analysis, FTA.- Assessment of Lifetime Tests and Failure Statistics.- Weibull Parameters for Specifically selected Machine Components.- Methods for Reliability Test Planning.- Lifetime Calculations for Machine Components.- Maintenance and Reliability.- Reliability Assurance Program.- Solutions.