About the FMEA interface matrix

An interface matrix provides additional inputs for system or subsystem FMEAs.

In Teamcenter, depending on the scope of the FMEA, the interface matrix table shows the subsystems and the components in the columns and rows of a table. This representation helps you to identify the interfaces and their types that must be considered while performing the structure analysis.

You can specify the following types of interfaces between the various system elements:

• D - Data Exchange: Indicates that data is exchanged between the system elements. An example of this is data transfer between a USB drive and a computer.

• E - Energy Transfer: Indicates that energy is transferred between the system elements. For example, there is force or heat exchanged between the system elements.

• I - Information Transfer: Indicates that information is transferred between the system elements. For example, ECU, sensors, or signals, can be transferred between the system elements.

• M - Material Transfer:Indicates that material is exchanged between the system elements. For example, cooling fluid, or exhaust gases, can be exchanged between the system elements.

• P - Physical Connection: Indicates a physical connection between the system elements. For example, the system elements can be welded, bolted, or clamped.

• H - Human-Machine: Indicates a human-machine interaction where data is exchanged between humans and machines.

Creating an interface matrix ensures that all the types of interfaces are included in the FMEA. The functions of the FMEA include all the identified interfaces. Each interface in the FMEA boundary diagram and the FMEA interface matrix has a one-to-one linkage to a corresponding function in the design FMEA.

In the interface matrix, you can:

• Create or add system elements at the same hierarchical level as siblings and the subsequent level as children.

• Edit or delete the existing system elements and their properties.

• Change the order of the system elements (based on the sequence numbers.

• Add, edit, or delete the interface type between the system elements.