The Reliability Elements

The first step to modeling reliability in GoldSim, as it is in any other reliability and risk analysis modeling methodology, is to develop a model of the system of interest with all of its components. In GoldSim, the building blocks used to represent the components of the system are the reliability elements themselves.

GoldSim provides two types of reliability elements: the Function element and the Action element:

Function elements are used to model components which operate continuously once turned on. Typical examples of components modeled by Function elements include pumps and engines.

Action elements are typically used to represent components which must respond to a control command or condition. Typical examples of components modeled by Action elements include switches and relays.

Both element types can fail, as well as be repaired and maintained. In addition, the Action element has the ability to determine whether or not a requested action has been completed in a satisfactory manner.