Selective Cost Reduction Based on a CAD-integrated Weibull Analysis

Lifetime calculation of a technical system is essential for the enterprises to survive at the global market [1]. For the description of the failure behavior of mechanical parts mainly a three parametric Weibull distribution is applied as the reliability analysis [2]. In such a manner, the calculated, i.e. the reached lifetime of the system, can be compared with the requirements in the specifications of the customer. In addition, the costs of the designed product then can be minimized based on the reliability calculation on a Weibull probability paper. The costs and expected lifetime of the parts can be determined and their feasibility and advantages/disadvantages can be compared and evaluated. For cost optimization, the parts not only with lower costs but also with enough strength, which will not risk the product’s safety and reliability, should replace the original design. In this paper, the selective cost reduction bades on a Weibull analysis of a practical system will beo shown. The Weibull analysis will be done CAD-integrated, in order to offer the designing engineer the possibility to perform the necessary changes.