Aeroplane rule


aeroplane rule

convention
“Complexity increases the possibility of failure; a twin-engine aeroplane has twice as many engine problems as a single-engine aeroplane.”
By analogy, in both software and electronics, the implication is that simplicity increases robustness and that the right way to build reliable systems is to put all your eggs in one basket, after making sure that you’ve built a really *good* basket.
While simplicity is a useful design goal, and twin-engine aeroplanes do have twice as many engine problems, the analogy is almost entirely bogus. Commercial passenger aircraft are required to have at least two engines (on different wings or nacelles) so that the aeroplane can land safely if one engine fails. As Albert Einstein said, “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler”.
See also KISS Principle.
(1999-03-22)

Read Also:

  • Aeroplane spin

    noun a wrestling attack in which a wrestler lifts his opponent onto his shoulders and spins around, leaving the opponent dizzy

  • Aeroponics

    .

  • Aeroscepsy

    perception of atmospheric conditions, as the perception of odors by the antennae of insects. Historical Examples aeroscepsy: The faculty of observing atmospheric changes: supposed to be located in the antenna. Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology John. B. Smith

  • Aerosol

    Physical Chemistry. a system of colloidal particles dispersed in a gas; smoke or fog. a liquid substance, as a disinfectant or deodorant, sealed in a metal container under pressure with an inert gas or other activating agent and released as a spray or foam through a push-button valve or nozzle: an aerosol for cleaning ovens. […]

  • Aerosol bomb

    a metal receptacle, containing an inert gas under pressure, that sprays an insecticide, disinfectant, or the like when the gas is released by opening a valve.


Disclaimer: Aeroplane rule definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.