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Research of solutions to problem in existing processes often deals with the tendency to follow mental schemes because of the psychological inertia. This study illustrates a knowledge-based systematic methodology of inventive problem solving for the effective development of new systems and solutions, a theory that consists of theoretical foundation, analytical and knowledge-based tools, applicable in conjunction with other creativity and engineering methodologies. The TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solution) applicability in process reliability can develop new and effective solutions thanks to the examination of contradiction, different prospective, and points of view. The systematic innovation process provides a platform to integrate heterogeneous resources and tools opening the problem-solving methodology to new and different interdisciplinary approaches. The deconstruction and identification of issues to analyze the problems in their context and in relation to other factors are adopted in many areas of industrial production as well as in the more general problem-solving matters. In particular, this study will show how TRIZ can be used in process optimization rather than research and development where this methodology is commonly adopted. This case represents a practical application of the TRIZ to increase quality and reliability in regard to a manufacturing process of an industry that designs and builds molds and equipment for the production of aluminum food containers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The need for more effective smoking-cessation interventions is firmly established. However, access to these services can be problematic in real life. E-mail messages may be a convenient alternative to deliver smoking-cessation interventions. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the effectiveness of incorporating tailored e-mail consultation messages in a smoking-cessation program for smokers willing to quit. METHODS: This pilot study examined the feasibility of integrating e-mail consultation messages in a smoking-cessation program for smokers willing to quit and with Internet access. At baseline, demographic data, smoking history and expired carbon monoxide (CO) levels were collected at a clinic visit. The subjects were provided with the specialist's e-mail address and instructed to prepare e-mail messages containing simple and clear information about their quitting progress. The counselor offered e-mail counseling throughout the smoking-cessation program. A 6-month follow-up visit was arranged, at which abstinence was reviewed. RESULTS: Of the 30 participants initially enrolled in the study, 21 (70%) attended the follow-up 6-month visit. E-mail counseling was more frequently offered (4-8 times) to the participants who completed the study, compared to those lost to follow-up (1-4 times). Comparisons with baseline exhaled CO values showed a significant within-group reduction at 6 months after smoking-cessation (P < .001) in the quitters, compared to smoking-cessation failures. Sustained smoking abstinence at 6 months was 37%. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of e-mail consultation counseling in a smoking-cessation intervention is feasible and effective. E-mail counseling as part of a smoking-cessation program warrants further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study adopts a special Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) method called Comparative FTA to compare the reliability of an electronic braking system with its mechanical counterpart. To this end two Top Events, ‘Ineffective parking braking’ and ‘Wheels jamming during emergency braking’, were analysed. One of the limitations of classic FTA is that the setting up of the tree diagram requires the long-term involvement—one to two months according to Fiat Auto—of specialists of the system being studied. For this reason, therefore, when dealing with relatively complex systems, classic FTA is only used when safety is involved. This paper introduces a simplified FTA model based on the same principle as the Parts Count Method, which limits its attention to the new branches, thereby avoiding the study of all the branches of the tree, in order to make FTA management easier and to encourage its use. The probability that a Top Event takes place is therefore evaluated by studying the different causes which diversify the solutions considered. This approach is a lean practice to minimize the resources and the time of the analysis. It has guaranteed very satisfactory results and, therefore, Fiat Auto has introduced the practice in their Corporate Instructions. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the research described in this paper, which was carried out in collaboration with the Fiat Auto Direzione Tecnica, was the definition and development of a technical design standard for an electrical power steering (EPS) system, a system mounted on the steering column which assists the driver in maintaining directional control of the vehicle, and the subsequent integration of this standard with existing Fiat Auto Standards. This work required the development of correlation and risk matrices, well-established methodologies used by the Fiat Auto Technical Memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a special ‘quality’ parameter on automotive perspective, i.e. the quality index in order to measure the customer satisfaction with car manoeuvrability. In particular, it describes how the characteristic setting curves of a car shock-absorber can be optimized using subjective customer assessment of three categories of perception: handling, steering quality and ride-comfort. These, called manoeuvrability indices, were used to represent the assessment of customer satisfaction with car manoeuvrability. The characteristic curves for each shock-absorber setting were defined using parameters which uniquely determined their shape. Subsequent analysis was carried out using simulated experimental design which adopts a numeric model of vehicle simulation thereby enabling experimental costs to be reduced. This analysis made it possible to ascertain which setting parameter values provided the best compromise among the three categories of required performance. A codified method of optimization was then developed. This method, which includes the three categories of perception, will be extended to all new projects. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]