Preface to the First Edition

This book is designed to provide an introduction to reliability engineering and management, both for students and for practising engineers and managers. The emphasis throughout is on practical applications, and the mathematical concepts described are accordingly limited to those necessary for solution of the types of problems covered. Practical approaches to problem-solving, such as the use of probability plotting techniques and computer programs, are stressed throughout. More advanced texts are cited for further reading on the mathematical and statistical aspects. The references given in the Bibliographies are limited to those considered to provide a direct continuation of the chapter material, with the emphasis on practical applications. Tables and charts are provided to complement the analytical methods described, and numerous worked examples are included.

The book describes and comments on the usage of the major national and government standards and specifications covering reliability engineering and management in the USA and the UK. It is considered that this is an important aspect of the practical approach, since so much engineering development work is now governed by such documents. The effects of current engineering, commercial and legislative developments, such as microelectronics, software-based systems, consumerism and product liability, are covered in some detail.

The requirements of the examination syllabi of the American Society for Quality Control, and the Institute of Quality Assurance (UK) in reliability engineering are covered, so the book will be suitable for use in courses leading to these qualifications. The emphasis on practical approaches to engineering and management, the comprehensive coverage of standards and specifications, and the overall layout of the book should make it equally as suitable as a general up to date reference for use in industry and in government agencies.

PATRICK O'CONNOR

1981