This SAE standard outlines the steps and known accepted methodologies and standards for linking Model V&V with model based product reliability assessments. The standard's main emphasis is that quantified values for Model-based product reliability must be accompanied by a quantified confidence value if the users of the model wish to claim use of a "Verified and Validated" model, and if they wish to further link into business and investment decisions that are informed by quantitative second-order risk and benefit cost considerations.

The purpose of this standard is to provide a process for linking demonstrated and accepted standards for Model V&V with peer reviewed and published methods and standards for model based assessments of product reliability. The result will be a standard that enables a design process providing validated model based assessments of product reliability at a quantified confidence level. This will justify and enhance the success of investments and business decisions that are based on model assessments of product reliability.

RATIONALE: SAE has numerous standards relating to the use of models, and product reliability. Other professional organizations (AIAA, ASME, DoD, NASA, etc) have recent standards for Model Verification & Validation (V&V). Lacking, however, is a standard relating the increasing use of numerical and computer Model V&V to quantitative design assessments of product reliability. It is the intent of SAE J2940 to provide such a standard.