**1.4 Fields of application of the FMEA method**

In the current context, the need to apply the FMEA method derives from the quality requirements, with the emphasis shifting from detecting noncompliant products to preventing errors and defects before prototyping the final product or switching to series production.

As can be seen in **Figure 6**, FMEA is a method of preventive quality recommended in the IATF16949: 2016 standard, AIAG, VDA, norms and regulations manuals, being a basic tool for 6Sigma.

The FMEA method is applicable to, **Figure 7**:


**Figure 6.**

*The requirement to apply the FMEA method.*

#### **Figure 7.**

*The area of FMEA applicability.*


By applying the FMEA method, the risk of non-conformities in the design and manufacture of products is reduced. The implementation of the method allows to reduce costs in all stages of the quality spiral, **Figure 8**: in design, by better reflecting customer expectations in design quality; in supply, by avoiding difficulties due to improper selection of suppliers; in manufacturing, by preventing the occurrence errors and defects and avoidance of critical points in the field of service, by reducing customer grievances and complaints, etc.

#### **1.5 Methodology for FMEA analysis implementation**

FMEA must be performed before the product prototype is made, **Figure 9**. No sense in applying FMEA afterward, upon the request of the client.

**Figure 8.** *The spiral of quality.*

#### *Failure Analysis – Structural Health Monitoring of Structure and Infrastructure Components*
