Reliable Measurement-Based System Design: A New Paradigm

Abstract In this paper we introduce a new approach to the design of fault-tolerant systems. Unlike traditional methods which rely on a mathematical model of the system, the proposed method is based on measurements only and a model is not required. The key elements of this approach are the determination of the design element values to preserve acceptable system performance under predetermined failures of fault prone elements. It is shown that such designs can be carried out without the necessity of a model and based only on strategic processing of measurements. An illustrative example of an electrical circuit that continues to maintain acceptable operation despite component failures is included.