New and Enhanced Features in Weibull++ Version 8
With the release of Version 8, Weibull++ offers a completely updated user interface that has many new and enhanced features. This page provides a summary of some of the major additions and enhancements in Version 8.
New Synthesis Platform for Multi-User Access and Intelligent Integration
With the release of Version 8, Weibull++ analyses are stored in a centralized database that supports simultaneous access by multiple users and shares relevant reliability information between ReliaSoft’s Synthesis-enabled software tools. To give just one simple example of the many integration opportunities available in the new Synthesis Platform, you can now seamlessly use Weibull++ and/or ALTA analyses to set the properties for a reliability block diagram or fault tree in BlockSim or a failure modes and reliability analysis (FMRA) in Xfmea/RCM++, and the software can automatically update the diagram if the underlying data analysis changes.
New and Enhanced Test Design Tools
Weibull++’s reliability demonstration test design tool has been completely redesigned and expanded in Version 8. The new interface uses terminology that is more familiar to real-world practice and stores the analysis in a folio for future reference. We have also added support for a fourth test design method: Non-Parametric Bayesian.
Version 8 also offers two new tools that were inspired by feedback from Weibull++ users and are designed to help visualize the outcomes from planned tests. The Expected Failure Times Plot can help you to anticipate what will occur during a reliability test and also provide an early warning if the test is not proceeding as expected. The Difference Detection Matrix helps to determine how much test time may be required before the captured data will make it possible to detect a difference in the reliability of two competing designs.
Reintroducing Word Report Templates
Weibull++ continues to offer built-in spreadsheets (similar to Microsoft Excel®) that can be used for custom analysis and reporting (called "General Spreadsheets" and "Analysis Workbooks"). Now in Version 8 we have reintroduced the "Word Report Template," a custom reporting utility that has functionality similar to Microsoft Word®. All three tools allow you to automatically insert calculated results from selected data sheets. With the Word Report Templates, you can also insert tables and plots that are built automatically based on your specifications and the currently selected data source.
Expanded Capabilities for the Stress-Strength Analysis and Life Comparison Tools
Both the Life Comparison and Stress-Strength tools have been redesigned and enhanced in Version 8. Now you can save individual analyses in the project for future reference, generate a pdf plot to visualize the comparison and obtain the confidence bounds on the calculated probability, if desired. We have also added a new integrated tool designed to support robust engineering methods by allowing you to solve for design parameters based on target reliability (e.g., what are the required parameters for the strength distribution to ensure that strength will exceed stress).
Obtain the Life Data Model Directly Within Specialized Analysis Folios
When you use a degradation analysis or non-parametric LDA folio to extrapolate failure/suspension times, it’s no longer necessary to transfer the data to a separate folio for life data analysis. Version 8 now automatically calculates the LDA model directly within the same folio and gives you immediate access to the calculated results and plots.
Redesigned QCP with Log of Results
The Quick Calculation Pad (QCP) has been updated and redesigned in Version 8. The new interface provides a "Calculation Log" that works like a paper roll in an adding machine, allowing you to record the results from a series of different calculations and then copy/paste the information as needed.
Enhanced Quick Parameter Estimator with User-Friendly Wizard Interface
Over the years, Weibull++'s Quick Parameter Estimator has proven to be a useful tool whenever you need to define a model without being able to calculate the parameters of a data set. In Version 8, we've added a new wizard interface that bypasses the statistical terminology and guides you through a series of questions that will "translate" what you know from practical experience into the information required to estimate the distribution and parameters.
New Target Reliability Estimator Based on Costs vs. Benefits
The new Target Reliability tool generates multiple plots designed to help you select a target reliability that will minimize cost and maximize profit/return on investment.
New Interval Width Estimator for Warranty Folio Usage Format
The Usage format in Weibull++’s warranty analysis folios supports the analysis of warranty returns data in terms of usage (e.g., miles, cycles, etc.) rather than time in service. In order to estimate the usage for non-failed units that are still out in the field, this tool allows you to describe the typical usage (per day, month or year) in terms of either an average rate or a statistical distribution. When you define the usage as a distribution, Version 8 now offers a new tool to help you estimate appropriate usage rate intervals.
Automatic Time Units Conversion and Color-Coding for Data Entry
With the release of Version 8, all Synthesis applications now allow you to define conversion factors for entering time values in different units. To give just one simple example, you can now enter test data into a standard folio as hours but then use the QCP to calculate the reliability for a year of operation — the software performs the conversion automatically based on the multipliers specified for the Synthesis repository.
We have also introduced new color-coding aids to assist with data entry and management. There is now an immediate color change if you enter data in an incorrect format. You also have the option to color-code data points based on their data type (e.g., failure time vs. suspension) or subset ID.
Enhanced, Easy-to-Use Interface with Internet Connectivity
All Synthesis applications offer a completely updated user interface with an "Office 2010" look and feel, and many usability enhancements. Some of the most useful include the ability to check-in/check-out portions of the analysis, "baselines" that allow you to restore or roll back to a previous stage in the analysis, and more flexible tools to organize and manage analysis projects.
Whenever possible, the new interface takes advantage of an active Internet connection to deliver the most up-to-date announcements, documentation and theoretical resources. For example:
- The new ReliaSoft Online panel provides up-to-date tips and announcements each time you start the application, and on demand when you need them.
- The context-sensitive Reliability Web Notes panel automatically delivers theoretical background information for the feature you’re currently working with, including links to related examples, articles and other resources.
- The new Help Center provides quick access to a variety of support tools, including the ability to automatically download software updates and generate an e-mail with the details needed for technical support.
