PLATO SCIO -Block-Diagram
The PLATO SCIO-Block-Diagram is a central project/FMEA document created in the early phases of the
engineering process and that accompanies the entire engineering process. The acquisition and visualization
of system relationships, interfaces and power/energy flow results in clear and concise documentation for all
involved Block structure diagrams are recommended especially as a method to prepare for and initiate an
FMEA (QS 9000).
Fig.: Planning a process in process engineering
Application and Use

Preparing an FMEA or planning a project

As a central document, it is an orientation guide and provides an overview of the project/FMEA for all
participants

Documents and visualizes structures, relationships and interfaces

Connections between components are represented (e.g. the flow of energy, power and information)

The integration of pictures and drawings in the block diagram makes it easier to represent complex
relationships
Branches and Standards
PLATO SCIO -Block-Diagram is used to design and examine processes regardless of the industry.
QS 9000 recommends the development of a block structure diagram before starting or when starting a
Design FMEA. The block diagram should accompany the FMEA throughout the entire development process.
PLATO SCIO Database
The block diagram supplies the base data for FMEAs, system analyses, production control plans and process
flow charts through the central PLATO SCIO database. This integration guarantees a clear path of
communication and effective and efficient teamwork across all departments.
© PLATO AG, April 2010. http://www.plato-ag.de
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Main Features and Functions
Project Documentation

Documents important project data and, as a project document, can be viewed or expanded at any time.

System limitations, the „environment“, interfaces and interactions between the system elements,
components or product features are visualized.

The block diagram helps to understand the structure and „conditions“ of the system and present it to the
team, customers, and suppliers.
Visualization

Pictures, drawings and sketches serve as supplemental information and supply a clear description of the
system.

Team decisions are entered in the block diagram as text to complete the documentation.
Interface analyses

Interrelated and interacting components of a system need to be examined more closely. Interface
elements are created in the block diagram specifically for this purpose.

An interface element automatically requests an interface FMEA. Furthermore, a link connecting the
components is created in the system analysis (PLATO SCIO -Matrix).
Easy to use

It is easy to design and build a block diagram by creating new system components.

Existing elements in SCIO can be added to the block diagram via drag & drop.

Elements of the block diagram are opened quickly as FMEAs or in other SCIO applications simply by
clicking on them.
The Complete PLATO SCIO Product Family
PLATO SCIO knowledge base
Building
and
sharing
a
The modules of the PLATO SCIO product family
are optimized for their particular application. All
modules use a common database and can add or
update data. You can systematically build a
knowledge base that is available now for all
applications.
The block diagram helps in the design and
development phases when planning a project as
well as in the creation of DFMEAs.
The block diagram is a central document that
accompanies the project in all project phases and is
available throughout the entire duration of the
project.
© PLATO AG, April 2010. http://www.plato-ag.de
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