Exam Question

### (a) Concept of Fail-Safe and Fail-Set Systems
A ship's control systems are designed with specific failure modes to ensure safety and operational stability. The two primary philosophies are 'fail-safe' and 'fail-set'.
#### 1. Fail-Safe System
A fail-safe system is designed so that upon failure of its actuating energy source (e.g., control air pressure, electrical power), it automatically reverts to a pre-determined, designated safe position. This action is independent of operator intervention and is typically achieved through a stored-energy mechanism like a spring or gravity. The safe position can be either fully open or fully closed.