You use Windchill RBD to evaluate block diagrams and phase diagrams for the complete analysis of more complex system configurations. The calculation models used in reliability predictions assume that all assemblies are configured in series and thus compute failure rate calculations based on this assumption. However, many systems are designed with various redundancies of key assemblies to improve the overall reliability of the system. The analysis of these types of redundancies requires the use of sophisticated mathematical algorithms.

When possible, Windchill RBD analytically analyzes the system to compute failure rate, MTBF (mean time between failures), reliability, availability, unreliability, and unavailability. When configuration complexities make analytical analysis impossible, a built-in Monte Carlo simulation engine is used. This module supports many advanced capabilities that are unavailable in typical tools for evaluating block diagrams. Besides supporting maintenance data, it supports capacity, cost analysis, imperfect maintenance, repair resources, spares, downtime, cost calculations, and optimizations for maintenance intervals, repair resources, and spares. The RBD module also supports phase diagrams, which model the operation of subsystems and components in specific mission phases of a phase-based system. For more information, see Windchill RBD.