Abstract: A technical system is described by several abstract or concrete models which have a mutual relationship. Information/attributes can be associated with model elements and “inherited” through these relationships. While the approach can basically be applied to different types and models of machines, it is described more particularly for hierarchical component models. Model elements in these models are referred to as components, assemblies, etc.

Abstract: A method and a device suitable for carrying out the method for analyzing technical system and/or machines and/or facilities is described. The device includes a database with a number of diagnoses. At least one attribute is associated with the diagnoses and at least one symptom description representing the technical system is associated with the attributes. An exception situation of the system is identified based on the attribute-related or symptom-related analysis of the diagnoses. Those diagnoses that are associated with the attribute and whose symptom description has a value that differs from an expected result, are evaluated and outputted. Based on an additional attribute, a particular diagnosis associated with the additional attribute is identified from the already identified diagnoses, whose symptom description has a value different from the expected result, and outputted.