Block diagrams are essential tools in functional and structural system modeling, yet many questions remain regarding their proper use and application:
- When should a Functional Block Diagram be used instead of a Block Boundary Diagram?
- What information is each diagram intended to capture and communicate?
In this webinar, we will clarify the purpose, objectives, and practical applications of these modeling approaches. Through real-world examples and industry use cases, we will explore:
- The similarities between these two types of diagrams,
- Their key differences in terms of purpose, level of detail, and readability,
- Best practices for using them together effectively in your system design and development projects.
Join us to gain a better understanding of how these complementary diagrams can support clear communication, efficient system modeling, and successful engineering outcomes.
1/ Functional Block Diagrams and the APTE Method
The APTE method is a key reference in functional analysis. However, its translation into Functional Block Diagrams can vary significantly across teams and practices, sometimes leading to a loss of clarity and consistency.
- What is a Functional Block Diagram in the context of the APTE method?
- What are the key principles for building a clear, consistent, and actionable diagram in systems engineering?
We will review the APTE method fundamentals and explain Functional Block Diagrams step by step:
- The objectives of functional analysis
- The positioning of this tool in relation to external functional analysis, FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis), and value analysis
- How to correctly represent Service functions, Contact functions, Elementary flow functions, and closed-flows functions
- A practical example using KNOWLLENCE Robust Engineering Software
2/ The Block Boundary Diagram
Lay the foundations for a robust FMEA risk analysis in accordance with AIAG-VDA standards.
Within the harmonized AIAG & VDA FMEA approach, the Block Boundary Diagram is far more than a simple context diagram: it is a critical and structuring step to properly define the scope of the risk analysis from the very beginning.
However, this diagram is still often underused, oversimplified, or misinterpreted, leading to incomplete FMEAs, unclear system boundaries, and poorly identified risks.
- What exactly does the Block Boundary Diagram represent according to the AIAG–VDA FMEA manual?
- How should interfaces be defined, identified, and classified?
- How does this diagram influence the quality of structural and functional analysis—and ultimately, the overall risk assessment?
In this webinar, we will revisit the core principles of the Block Boundary Diagram as defined in the AIAG & VDA FMEA handbook, focusing on:
- Its role within the 7-step FMEA approach
- The key links between the Block Boundary Diagram, structural analysis, and functional analysis
- Best practices for building a clear, shared, and actionable Block Boundary Diagram for all stakeholders
- A practical example using KNOWLLENCE Robust Engineering Software
Objective of the Webinar:
This webinar is intended for quality engineers, systems engineers, FMEA managers, and project leaders who want to strengthen their methodological expertise and improve the robustness of their risk analyses.
Join this webinar to build a solid foundation and prevent deviations from the very start of your analysis process.