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r Statistical Process Control
SPC
Second Edition
a i ee,STATISTICAL PROCESS
CONTROL
(SPC)
| REFERENCE MANUAL
CONTROLLED '
Copy
DOCUMENT .
|_ CONTROL .}
‘Second Edition, Issued July 2005
Issued 1992, Second Printing March 1995 (new cover only)
Copyright © 1992, © 1995, © 2005
DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors CorporationSTATISTICAL PROCESS CONTROL
SPC
FOREWORD to Second Edition
This Reference Manual was developed by the Statistical Process Control (SPC) Work Group, sanctioned
by the DaimnlerChrysier/Ford/General Motors Supplier Quality Requirements Task Force, and under the
auspices of the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG).
The Work Group responsible for this Second edition was prepared by the quality and supplier assessment
staffs at DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Delphi Corporation, Ford Motor Company, General Motors
Corporation, Omnex, Inc. and Robert Bosch Corporation working in collaboration with the Automotive
Industry Action Group (AIAG),
‘The Task Force charter is to standardize the reference manuals, reporting formats and technical
nomenclature used by DaimlerChrysler, Ford and General Motors in their respective supplier assessment
systems, Accordingly, this Reference’ Manual can be used by any supplier to develop information
responding to the requirements of either DaimlerChrysler’s, Ford’s or General Motors’ supplier
assessment systems. This second edition was prepared to recognize the needs and changes within the
automotive industry in SPC techniques that have evolved since the original manual was published in
1991
The manual is an introduction to statistical process control. It is ot intended to dimit evolution of SPC
methods suited to particular processes or commodities. While these guidelines are intended to cover
normally occurring SPC system situations, there will be questions that arise. These questions should be
directed to your customer’s Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) activity. If you are uncertain as to how t0
contact the appropriate SQA activity, the buyer in your customer's purchasing office can help,
‘The Task Force gratefully acknowledges: the leadership and commitment of Vice Presidents Peter
Rosenfeld at DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Thomas K. Brown at Ford Motor Company and Bo
Andersson of General Motors Corporation; the assistance of the AIAG in the development, production
and distribution of the manual; the guidance of the Task Force principals Hank Gryn (DaimlerChrysler
Corporation), Russ Hopkins (Ford Metor Company), and Joe Bransky (General Motors Corporation),
Therefore this manual was developed to meet the specific needs of the automotive industry.
This Manual is copyrighted by DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors.
Corporation, all rights reserved, 2005. Additional manuals can be ordered from AIAG and/or permission
to copy portions of this manuat for ase within supplier organizations may be obtained from AIAG at 248-
358-3570 or http://www.aiag.org.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS to Second Edition
‘The joint consensus on the contents of this document was effected through Task Team Subcommittee
Members representing DaimlerChrysler, Ford, and General Motors, respectively, whose approval
signatures appear below, and who gratefully acknowledge the significant contribution of Gregory Gruska
of Omnex Ine., Gary A. Hiner of Delphi Corporation, and David W. Stamps of The Robert Bosch Corp,
‘The latest improvements were updating the format to conform to the current ALAG/ ISO/ TS 16949:2002
documentation, more clarification and examples to make the manual more user friendly and additional
areas which where not included or did not exist when the origiaal manual was written,
The current re-write subcommittee is chaired by Mike Down from General Motors Corporation and
consists of Todd Kerkstra and Dave Benham from DaimlerChryster Corporation, Peter Cvetkovski from
Ford Motor Company. Gregory Greiska, as a representative of the Omnex Inc. and ASQ, Gary A. Hiner of
Delphi Corporation, and David W. Stamps of The Robert Bosch Corp.
Michael H. Down Todd Kerkstra
General Motors Corporation DaimlerChrysler Corporation
Peter Cvetkovski David R. Benham
Fosd Metor Company DaimlerChrysler Corporation
iiiivSTATISTICAL PROCESS CONTROL
SPC
FOREWORD to First Edition
‘This Reference Manual was prepared by the quality and supplier assessment staflS at Chrysler, Ford and
General Motors, working under the auspices of the Automotive Division of the American Society for Quality
Control Supplier Quality Requirements Task Foree, in collaboration with the Automotive Industry Action
Group.
‘The ASQCIAIAG Task Force charter is to standardize the reference manuals, reporting formats and technical
nomenclature used by Chrysler, Ford and General Motors in their respective supplier assessment systems:
Supplier Quality Assurance, Total Quality Excellence and Targets for Excellence. Accordingly, this Reference
Manual can be used by any supplier to develop information responding to the requirements of either
Chrysler's, Ford’s or Genera! Motors” supplier assessment systems. Until now, there has been no unified
formal approach in the automotive industry on statistical process control, Certain manufacturers provided
methods for their suppliers, while others had no specific requirements. In an effort to simplify and minimize
Variation in supplier quality requirements, Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors agreed to develop and, through
AIAG, distribute this manual. The work team responsible for the Manual’s content was led by Leonard A.
Brown of General Motors. The manual should be considered an introduction to statistical process control. It is
‘Hot intended to limit evolution of statistical methods suited (0 particular processes or commodities nor is it
intended to be comprehensive of all SPC techniques. Questions on the use of alternate methods should be
referred to your customer's quality activity.
The Task Force gratefully acknowledges: the senior leadership and commitment of Vice Presidents Thomas T.
Stallkamp at Chrysler, Clinton D. Lauer at Ford, and Donald A. Pais at General Motors; the technical
competence and hard Work of their quality and supplier assessment teams: and the iavaluable contributions of
the Automotive Industry Action Group (under AIAG Executive Director Joseph R. Phelan) in the
development, production and distribution of this Reference manual. We also wish to thank the ASQC reading
teant fed 6y Tripp Martin of Peterson Spring, who reviewed the Manual and in the process made Valuable
contributions to intent and content.
Bruce W. Pince
Task Force Coordinator
‘Sandy Corporation
Troy, Michigan
December, 1991
This Manual is copyrighted by Chrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation,
all rights reserved, 1991. Additional copies can be ordered from A.1LA.G., and/or permission eo copy portions
‘of the Manual for use within supplier organizations may be obtained from A.1.A.G. at (248) 358-3570.viACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 1 First Edition
The joint consensus on the contents of this document was effected through Task Team Subcommittee
Members representing General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler, respectively, whose approval sighatures appear
below, and who gratefully acknowledge the significant contribution of Pete Jessup of the Ford Motor
Company, who was responsible for developing the majority of the material found in Chapters f, If, and II, and
the Appendix ofthis document
Harvey Goltzer of the Chrysler Corporation contributed concepts relative to process capability and capability
studies, found in the introduction section of Chapter 1. Jack Herman of Du Pont contributed some of the
concepts relative to capability and performance indices and the importance of measurement variability, found
in portions of Chapters Il and IV. respectively.
The General Motors Powertrain Division contributed the discussion and examples relative to subgrouping and
process over-adjustment, The section in Chapter II which provides understanding of process capability and
related issues was developed by the General Motors Corporate Statistical Review Committee. This committee
also contributed to the development of Chapter IV. Process Measurement Systems Analysis, as well as to some
Appendix items.
Finally, valuable input to all sections of the manual was provided by ASQC representatives Gregory Gruska,
Doug Berg, and Tripp Martin
Leonard A. Brown, Victor W. Lowe, Jr David R. Benham,
GM. Ford ChryslerTABLE OF CONTEN'
‘CHAPTER I
Continual mprovement and Statistical Process Control.
Introduction
Six Points
CHAPTER I~ Section A...
Prevention Versus Detection.
CHAPTER I ~ Section B..
A Process Control Systet
CHAPTER I~ Seetion
Variation: Common...
and Special Causes
CHAPTER I - Section D..
Local Actions And Actions On The System
CHAPTER I - Seetion E sm :
Process Control and Process Capability.
Control vs. Capability
Process Indices
CHAPTER I - Section F. a
‘The Process Improvement Cycle and Process Control...
CHAPTER I - Section G..
Control Charts: Tools For Process Control and Improvement...
How do they work?
Approach:
CHAPTER I — Section H..
Effective Use and Benefits of Control Charts,
(CHAPTER I.
Control Charts
Introduction: 2
Variables Control Charts
Attributes Control Charts
Elements of Control Charts
CHAPTER II - Section A..
Control Chart Process.
Preparatory Steps...
Control Chart Mechanics
Establish Control Limits...
Interpret for Statistical Control
Final Comments, a
Extend Control Limits for Ongoing Control
CHAPTER II - Section B
Defining “Out-of-Control” Signals
Point Beyond a Control Limit.
Patterns or Trends Within the Control Limits
Special Cause Criteria.
Average Run Length (ARL).
CHAPTER II - Section C
Control Chart Formulas.Variables Control Charts
Average and Range Chars (XR)
Average and Standard Deviation Chas (Xs)
Median and Range Charts (, R)
Individuals and Moving Range Charts (X, MR)
Attributes Control Charts
‘Control Charts for Nonconforming Items.
Proportion Nonconformning (p Chart)
Number of Nonconforming Chart (mp Chart)
Number of Nonconformities per Unit Chart (v Chart)
Number of Nonconformities Chart (c Chart)
CHAPTER IT srs
Other Types of Control Charts
Introduction
Probability Based Charts
‘Short-Run Control Charts
Charts for Detecting Small Changes
Non-Normal Charts
Multivariate
Other Charts .
Regression Control Charts,
Residual Charts
Autoregressive Charts
Zone Chants
CHAPTERIV.
Understanding Process Capability...
and Process Performance for Variables Data
Introduction
CHAPTER IV - Section A.
Definitions of Process Terms :
Process Measures for Predictable Processes
Indices ~ Bilateral Tolerances
Indices ~ Unilateral Tolerances
CHAPTER IV - Section B.
Description of Conditions :
Handling Non-Normal and Multivariate Distributions
Relationship of Indices and Proportion Nonconforming.
‘Non-Normal Distributions Using Transformations
‘Non-Normal Distributions Using Non-Normal Forms
Multivariate Distributions
CHAPTER IV - Section C.
Suggested Use of Process Measures
The Loss Function Concept
Alignment of Process to Customer Requirements.
APPENDIX
Some Comments on Sampling,
Effects of Subgrouping.
79
9
83.Autocorrelated Data... me : . sen 1ST.
Multiple Stream Process Example... : — 162
Effects of Sample Size on Indices.
APPENDIX B
Some Comments on Sp
Over-Adjustment.
Time Dependent Processes
Repeating Patteres.
APPENDIX C. oe
Selection Procedure for the Use of the Control Charts Described in This Manual
APPENDIX D
Relationship Between Com and Other Indices
APPENDIX E
Table of Constants and Formulas for Control Charts.
APPENDIX F
Capability Index Calculations Example
Data Set: —
AnIAlYSi8.nnr nn
Diameter Statisties:
Conclusion:
APPENDIX G.
Glossary of Terms and Symbols
Terms Used in This Manual...
Symbols as Used in This Manual.
APPENDIX H. ne
References and Suggested Readings
APPENDIX
Standard Normal Tables.
INDE: 4
S.P.C, Manual User Feedback Process ..
ial Causes
xiLIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure 1.1: A Process Control System.....
Figure 1.2: Variation: Common Cause and Special Cause.
Figure 13: Process Control and Process Capability
Figure 1.4: The Process Improvement Cycle
Figure 1.5: Control Charts
Figure ILI: Variables Data
Figure 11.2: Attributes Data,
Figure 11.3: Elements of Control Chars...
Figure I14a: Sample Control Chart (Front side)..
Figure II 4b: Sample Control Chart (back side) ~ Event Log.
Figure I].5: Extending Control Limits.
Figure 11.6: Control Limits Recalculation.
Figure 1.7: Extend Control Limits for Ongoing Control
Figure 11.8: Process Variation Relative to Specification Limits.
Figure 11.9: Points Beyond Control Limits e
Figure I1.10: Runs in an Average Control Chart.
Figure II:1]: Runs in a Range Control Chart
Figure II.12: Nonrandom Patterns in a Control Chart.
Figure II.13: Average and Range Charts...
Figure II.14: Average and Standard Deviation Charts.
Figure II15: Median and Range Charts.
Figure I1.16: Individual and Moving Range Charts
Figure I1.17: Proportion Nonconforming Chart.
Figure 11.18: Number of Nonconfecming Chart.
Figure II-19: Number of Nonconforming per Unit Chart.
Figure 11.20: Number of Nonconformities Chart...
Figure Ill 1: Control Charts...
Figure I11.2: Stoplight Control.
Figure 1IL3: Pre-ConttOl en.
Figure Ill: NOM Control Chart.
Figure I1L.S: CUSUM Chart with V-Mask
igure IIL6: X, MR Chart
Figure I1L-7: EWMA Chart of Viscosity
Figure 111.8: X, MR Chart of Viscosity.
Figure IV.1: Within- and Between-Subgroup Variation...
Figure 1V.2: Cand Py, Comparison
Figure IV.3: Comparison between a Predictable and Immature Process.
Figure IV.4: Cpk and Ppk Values Produced by a Predictable and Immature Process.
Figure IV.5: “Goal Post” vs. Loss Function = a
Figure 1V.6: Comparison of Loss Function and Specifications
Figure IV.7: Comparison of Loss Functions... so
Figure IV.8: A Process Control System.
Figure IV.9: Process Alignment to Requirements.
130
152CHAPTER |
Continual Improvement
and
Statistical Process ControlThis page intentionally left blankCHAPTER I
Continual Improvement and Statistical Process Control
Introduction
To prosper in today’s economic climate, we ~ automotive manufacturers,
suppliers and dealer organizations — must be dedicated to continual
improvement. We must constantly seek more eicient way’ to produce
products and services, These products and services must continue to
improve in value. We must focus upon our customers, both intemal and
extemal, and make customer satisfaction a primary business goal,
To accomplish this, everyone in our organizations must be committed to
improvement and to the use of effective methods. This manual describes
several basic statistical methods that can be used to make out efforts at
improvement more effective, Different levels of understanding. are
needed to perform different tasks. This manual is aimed at practitioners
and managers beginning the application of statistical methods, It will
also serve as a reftesher on these basic methods for those who are now
using more advanced techniques. Not all basic methods are included
here. Coverage of other basic methods (such as check sheets, flowcharts,
Pareto charts, cause and effect diagrams) and some advanced methods
(such as other control charts, designed experiments, quality function
deployment, etc.) is available in books and booklets such as those
referenced in Appendix
The basic statistical methods addressed in this manual include those
associated with statistical process control and process capability analysis.
Chapter I provides background for process control, explains several
important concepts such as special and common causes of variation. It
also introduces the control chart, which can be a very effective tool for
analyzing and monitoring processes.
Chapter II describes the construction and use of control charts for both
variables! data and attributes dats.
Chapter Iif describes other types of control charts that can be used for
specialized situations ~ probability based charts, short-run charts, charis
for detecting small changes, non-normal, multivariate and other charts
Chapter IV addresses process capability analysis.
The Appendices address sampling, over-adjustment, a process for
selecting control charts, table of constants and formulae, the normal
table, a glossary of terms and symbols, and references.
The term “Variables”, although awkward sounding, is used in order to distinguish the difference
between something that varies, and che control chart used for data taken from a continuous variable,CHAPTER
Continual Improvement and Statistical Process Control
Six Points
Six points should be made before the main discussion begins:
1) Gathering data and using statistical methods to interpret them are not
ends in themselves. The overall aim should be increased
understanding of the reader's processes. It is very easy to become
technique experts without realizing any improvements. Increased
knowledge should become a basis for action,
2) Measurement systems are critical to proper data analysis and they
should be well understood before process data are collected. When
such systems lack statistical control or their variation accounts for a
substantial portion of the total variation in process data,
inappropriate decisions may be made. For the purposes of this
‘manual, it will be assumed that this system is under control and is
not a significant contributor to total variation in the data. The reader
is referred to the Measurement Systems Anaiysis (MSA) Manual
available from AIAG for more information on this topic.
3). The basic concept of studying variation and using statistical signals
to improve performance can be applied to any area. Such areas can
be on the shop floor or in the office. Some examples are machines
(performance characteristics), bookkeeping (error rates), gross sales,
Waste analysis (Scrap rates). computer systems (performance
characteristics) and materials management (transit times). This
manual focuses upon shop floor applications. The reader is
encouraged to consult the references in Appendix H_ for
administrative and service applications.
4) SPC stands for Statistical Process Control. Historically, statistical
methods have been routinely applied to parts, rather than processes.
Application of statistical techniques to control output (such as parts)
should be only the first step. Until the processes that generate the
‘output become the focus of our efforts, the full power of these
methods to improve quality, increase productivity and reduce cost
may not be fully realized
5) Although each point in the text is illustrated with a worked-out
example, real understanding of the subject involves deeper contact
with process control situations. ‘The study of actual cases from the
reader’s own job location or from similar activities would be an
important supplement to the text. There is no substitute for hands-on
experience.
6} This manual should be considered a first step toward the use of
statistical methods, It provides generally accepted approaches,
which work in many instances. However, thete exist exceptions
where it is improper to blindly use these approaches. This manual
does not replace the need for practitioners to increase their
knowledge of statistical methods and theory. Readers are
encouraged to pursue formal statistical education. Where the
reader's processes and application of statistical methods haveCHAPTER I
Contiauat improvement and Statistical Process Control
advanced beyond the material covered here, the reader is also
‘encouraged to consult with persons who have the proper knowledge
and practice in statistical theory as to the appropriateness of other
techniques. In any event, the procedures used must satisfy the
customer's requirements,THE NEED FOR
PROCESS CONTROL
Detection - Tolerates Waste
Prevention — Avoids WasteCHAPTER I~ Section A
Prevention Versus Detection
CHAPTER |! - Section A
Prevention Versus Detection
Im the past, Manufacturing often depended on Production to make the
product and on Quality Control to inspect the final product and screen
ut items not meeting specifications. in administrative situations, work
is often checked and rechecked in efforts to catch errors. Both cases
involve a strategy of detection, which is wasteful, because it allows time
and materials to be invested in products or services that are not always
usable.
I is much more effective to avoid waste by not producing unusable
‘output in the first place ~ a strategy of prevention,
A prevention strategy sounds sensible - even obvious ~ to most people.
It is easily captured in such slogans as, “Do it right the first time”.
However, slogans are not enough, What is required is an understanding,
of the elements of a statistical process comro{ system. The remaining
seven subsections of this introduction cover these elements and can be
viewed as answers to the following questions:
‘© What is meant by a process contro! system?
‘+ How does variation affect process output?
‘© How can statistical techniques tell whether a problem is focal in
nature or involves broader systems?
‘+ What is meant by a process being in statistical control?
‘What is meant by a process being capable?
‘+ What is a continual improvement cycle, and what part can process
control play in it?
© What are control charts, and how are they used?
‘+ What benefits can be expected from using control charts?
As this material is being studied, the reader may wish to refer to the
Glossary in Appendix G for brief definitions of key terms and symbols,CHAPTER I - Section B
A Process Control Systema
PEOPLED
EQUIPMENT
MATERIAL
METHODS)
MEASUREMENT)
ENVIRONMENT
a
WITH FEEDBACK
VOICE
OF THE
PROCESS
STATISTICAL
METHODS
THEWAY [oe
WE WORK/ oo
BLENDING OF
RESOURCES cenuicee
a axa
PROCESSISYSTEM OUTPUTS
PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEM MODEL
CUSTOMERS
VOICE
OF THE
CUSTOMER
IDENTIFYING
CHANGING NEEDS
AND EXPECTATIONS
A Process Control SystemCHAPTER | - Section B
AA Process Control System
CHAPTER | - Section B
A Process Control System
A process control system can be described as a feedback system. SPC is
one type of feedback system, Other such systems, which are not
statistical, also exist. Four elements of that system are important to the
discussions that will follow
1, The Process ~ By the process, we mean the whole combination of
suppliers, producers, people, equipment, input materials, methods, and
environment that work together to produce output, and the customers,
who use that output (see Figure 1.1). The total performance of the
process depends upon communication between supplier and customer,
the way the process is designed and implemented, and on the Way it is,
operated and managed. The rest of the process control system is useful
only if it contributes either to maintaining a level of excellence or to
improving the total performance of the process.
2. Information About Performance ~ Much information about the
actual performance of the process can be learned by studying the process
output. The most helpful information about the performance of a pro
comes, however, from understanding the process itsel? and its internal
variability. Process characteristics (such as temperatures, cycle times,
feed rates, absenteeism, turnover, tardiness, or number of interruptions)
should be the ultimate focus of our efforts. We need to determine the
target values for those characteristics that resuit in the most productive
operation of the process, and chen monitor how near to or far from those
target values we are. if this information is gathered and interpreted
correctly, it can show whether the process is acting in a usual or unusual
manner. Proper actions can then be taken, if needed, (0 correct the
process or the just-produced output. When action is needed it must be
timely and appropriate, or the information-gathering effort is wasted,
43. Action on the Process — Action on the process is frequently most
economical when taken to prevent the important characteristics (process
‘or output) from varying too far from their target values. This ensures the
stability and the variation of the process output is maintained within
acceptable fimits. Such action might consist of:
‘© Changes in the operations
Y operator training
Y changes to the incoming materials
‘¢ Changes in the more basie elements of the process itself
Y the equipment
Y how people communicate and relate
the design of the process as a whole ~ which may be vulnerable
to changes in shop temperature or humidity
The effect of actions should be monitored, with further analysis and
action taken if necessary,CHAPTER | Section B
A Process Control System
4, Action on the Output — Action on the output is frequently least
economical when it is restricted to detecting and correcting out-of-
specification product without addressing the underlying process problem.
Unfortunately, if current output does not consistently meet customer
requirements, it may be necessary to sort all products and to scrap or
rework any nonconforming items. This must continue until. the
necessary corrective action on the process has been taken and verified.
It is obvious that inspection followed by action on only the output is a
poor substitute for effective process management. Action on only the
‘output should be used strictly as en interim measute for unstable ot
incapable processes (see Chapter I, Section E). Therefore, the
discussions that follow focus on gathering process information and
analyzing it so that action can be taken to correct the process itself.
Remember, the focus should be on prevention not detection.‘This page intentionally left blank
u
CHAPTER I Section B
‘A Process Control System.CHAPTER | Section C
Variation: Common and Special Causes
PIECES VARY FROM EACH OTHER,
a. de, dy th,
sze——> see
BUT THEY FORM A PATTERN THAT, IF STABLE, CAN BE DESCRIBED AS A DISTRIBUTION
ty AN
‘sze——> ‘sze——> ‘sze——>
DISTRIBUTION CAN OFFER I:
Location, SPREAD SHAPE
‘sze——>
{ONLY COMMON CAUSES OF VARIATION
[ARE PRESENT, THE OUTPUT OF A PROCESS
orars a DISTRIBUTION THATIS STABLE OVER
sze—> =
om
UNABLE TO
sae ——>
Figure 1.2: Variation: Common Cause and Special Cause
12CHAPTER I~ Section C
Variation: Common and Special Causes
CHAPTER | - Section C
Variation: Common and Special Causes
In order to effectively use process control measurement data, it is
important to understand the concept of variation, as illustrated in Figure
12
No two products or characteristics are exactly alike, because any process
contains many sources of variability. The differences among products
may be large, or they may be immeasurably small, but they are always,
present. The diameter of a machined shaft, for instance, would be
susceptible to potential variation from the machine (clearances, bearing
wear), tool (strength, rate of wear), material (diameter, hardness),
operator (part feed, accuracy of centering), maintenance (lubrication,
replacement of wor parts), environment (temperature, constancy of
power supply) and measurement system. Another example is the time
required to process an invoice could vary according to the people
performing various steps, the reliability of any equipment they were
using, the accuracy and legibility of the invoice itself, the procedures
followed, and the volume of other work in the office.
Some sources of variation in the process cause short-term, piece-to-piece
differences, eg, backlash and clearances within a machine and its
fixturing, or the accuracy of a bookkeeper's work. Other sources of
variation tend to cause changes in the output only over a longer period of
time, ‘These changes may occur either gradually as with tool or machine
wear, stepwise a8 with procedural changes, or irregularly as with
environmental changes such as power surges. Therefore, the time period
and conditions over which measurements are made are critical since they
will affect the amount of the total variation that will be observed.
While individual measured values may all be different, as a group they
tend to form a pattem that can be described as a distribution (see Figure
1.2), This distribution can be characterized by:
© Location (typical or “central” value)
© Spread (span or “width” of values from smallest to largest)
‘+ Shape (the pattern of variation ~ whether it is symmetrical, skewed,
etc.)
From the standpoint of minimum requirements, the issue of variation is
often simplified: parts within specification tolerances are acceptable,
parts beyond specification tolerances are not acceptable; reports on time
are acceptable, late reports are not acceptable, However, the goal should
be 10 maintain the location 10 a target value with minimal variability. To
manage any process and reduce variation, the variation should be traced
back to its sources. The first step is to make the distinction between
common and special causes of variation.
Common causes refer to the many sources of variation that consistently
acting on the process. Common causes within a process produce a stable
and repeatable distribution over time. This is called “in a state of
13CHAPTER I - Section C
Variation: Common and Specs
Causes
statistical control,” “in statistical control,” or sometimes just “in control.”
Common causes yield a stable system of chance causes. If only common
uses of variation are present and do not change, the output of a process
is predictable.
Special causes (often called assignable causes) refer to any factors
causing variation that affect only some of the process output. They are
often intermittent and unpredictable. Special causes are signaled by one
(or more points beyond the control limits or non-random patterns of
points within the control limits. Unless all the special causes of variation
are identified and acted upon, they may continue to affect the process
output in unpredictable ways. If special causes of variation are present,
the process output will not be stable over time.
‘The changes in the process distribution due to special causes can be
either detrimental or benelicial. When detrimental, they need to be
understood and removed. When beneficial, they should be understood
and made a permanent part of the process. With some mature processes’,
the customer may give special allowance to run a process with a
consistently occurring special cause, Such allowances will usually
require that the process control plans can assure conformance to
customer requirements and protect the process from other special causes
(see Chapter I, Section E).
? Processes that have undergone several cycles of continual improvement.
14‘This page intentionally left blank
15
CHAPTER I Section ©
Variation: Common and Special CausesCHAPTER - Section D
Local Actions And Actions On The System
LOCAL ACTIONS AND ACTIONS ON THE SYSTEM
Local Actions
* Are usually required to eliminate special causes of variation
* Can usually be taken by people close to the process
* Can correct typically about 15% of process problems
Actions on the System
* Are usually required to reduce the variation due to common causes
* Almost always require management action for correction
* Are needed to correct typically about 85% of process problems
16cuaeT
Local Actions And Actior
car
Pro
CHAPTER | - Section D
Local Actions And Actions On The System
There is an important connection between the two types of variation just
discussed and the types of action necessary to reduce them."
Simple statistical process control techniques can detect special causes of
variation. Discovering a special cause of variation and taking the proper
action is usually the responsibility of someone who is directly connected
with the operation, Although management can sometimes be involved to
correct the condition, the resolution of @ special cause of variation
usually requires focal action, ie., by people directly connected with the
operation. This is especially true during the early process improvernent
efforts. As one succeeds in taking the proper action on special causes,
those that remain wiif often require management action, rather than local
action.
‘These same simple statistical techniques can also indicate the extent of
‘common causes of variation, but the causes themselves need more
deailed analysis to isolate, The correction of these common causes of
variation is usually the responsibility of management. Sometimes people
directly connected with the operation will be in a bettet position to
identify them and pass them on to management for action. Overall, the
resolution of common causes of Variation usually requires action on the
system,
Only a relatively small proportion of excessive process variation —
industrial experience suggests about 15% — is correctable locally by
people dicectly connected with the operation. The majority — the other
85% — is correctable only by management action on the system.
Confusion about the type of action to take is very costly to the
organization, in terms of wasted effort, delayed resolution of trouble, and.
‘aggravating problems. It may be wrong, for example, to take local action
(eg,, adjusting a machine) when management action on the system is
required (eg., selecting suppliers that provide consistent input
materials).’ Nevertheless, close teamwork between management and
those persons ditectly connected with the operation is @ must for
‘enhancing reduction of common causes of process Variation.
Dr. W. E. Deming has treated this issue in many articles; e.g., see Deming (1967)
These observations were first made by Dr. J. M. Juran, and have been borne out in Dr. Deming’s
experience.TERI Section E
‘268s Control and Process Capability
PROCESS CONTROL
I CONTROL,
(SPECIAL CAUSE ELIMINATED)
vA
se —>
OUT OF conTROL
(SPECIAL CAUSES PRESENT)
PROCESS CAPABILITY
IN CONTROL AND
‘CAPABLE
OF MEETING
‘SPECIFICATIONS
(VARIATION FROM COMMON
‘CAUSES
HAS BEEN REDUCED)
IN CONTROL BUT NOT CAPABLE
'OF MEETING SPECIFICATIONS.
(VARIATION FROM COMMON CAUSES
1S EXCESSIVE)
Figure 3: Process Control and Process Capability
18CHAPTER I - Section E
Process Control and Process Capability
CHAPTER I ~ Section E
Process Control and Process Capability
Control vs. Capability
‘The process control system is an integral part of the overal) business
management system.’ As such, the goat of the process control system is
¢o make predictions about the current and future state of the process. This
Jeads to economically sound decisions about actions affecting the
process, These decisions require balancing the risk of taking action when
action is not necessary (over-control or “tampering”) versus failing to
take action When action is necessary (under-control).° These risks should
be handled, however, in the context of the two sources of variation -
special causes and common causes (see Figure 1.3).
‘A process is said to be operating in statistical control wien the only
sources of variation are common causes. One function of a process
control system, then, is to provide a statistical signal when special causes
of variation are present, and to avoid giving false signals witen they are
not present. This allows appropriate action(s) to be taken upon those
special causes (either removing them or, if they are beneficial, making
them permanent).
‘The process control system can be used as @ one-time evaluation tool but
the real benefit of a process control system is realized when it is used as
a continual learning too! instead of # conformance tool (good/bad,
stable'not stabfe, capable/not capable, ete.)
See TS 16949.
‘When discussing process capability, two somewhat contrasting concepts
need to be considered:
«Process capability
‘* Process performance
Process capability is determined by the variation that comes from
common causes. It generally represents the best performance of the
process itself. This is demonstrated when che process is being operated
in a state of statistical control regardless of the specifications,
Customers, intemal or external, are however more typically concerned
with the process performance; that is, the overall output of the process
and how it relates to their requirements (defined by specifications),
inrespective of the process variation,
* See W. E. Deming, (1994), and W, Shewhart, (1931).
19CHAPTER I Section E
Process Control and Process Capability
In general, since a process in statistical control can be described by a
predictable distribmnion, the proportion of in-specification parts can be
estimated from this distribution. As long as the process remains in
statistical control and does not undergo a change in location, spread or
shape, it will continue to produce the same distribution of in-
specification parts
Once the process is in statistical control the first action on the process
should be to locate the process on the target. If the process spread is
unacceptable, this strategy allows the minimum number of ourof
specification parts to be produced. Actions on the system to reduce the
variation from common causes are usually required to improve the ability
of the process (and its output) to meet specifications consistently. For a
‘more detailed discussion of process capability, process performance and
the associated assumptions, refer to Chapter IV.
The process must first be brought into statistical control by detecting and
‘acting upon special causes of variation. Then its performance is
predictable, and its capability to meet customer expectations can be
assessed. This is a basis for continual impravement,
Every process is subject to classification based on capability and control.
A process can be classified imo 1 of 4 cases, as ilustrated by the
following chart
Statistica Controt
In-Control Out-of-Control
Acceptable Case 7 Case 3
Capability
Unacceptable Case 2
Case 4
To be acceptable, the process must be in a state of statistical control and
the capability (common cause variation) must be less than the tolerance.
The ideal situation is to have a Case I process where the process is in
statistical control and the ability to meet tolerance requirements is
acceptable. A Case 2 process is in control but has excessive common
cause variation, which must be reduced. A Case 3 process meets
tolerance requirements but is not in statistical control; special causes of
variation should be identified and acted upon. In Case 4, the process is,
not in control mar is it acceptable, Both common and special cause
variation must be reduced
Under certain circumstances, the customer may allow a producer to run
process even though it is a Case 3 process. These circumstances may
include:
‘© The customer is insensitive to variation within specifications (see
discussion on the loss funetion in Chapter 1V).CHAPTER | Section E
Process Control and Process Capability
‘+The economics involved in acting upon the special cause exceed the
benefit to any and all customers. Economically allowable special
causes may include toot wear, tool regrind, cyclical (seasonal)
variation, et.
* The special cause has been identified and has been documented as
consistent and predictable.
In these situations, the customer may require the following:
+ The process is mature
‘© The special cause to be allowed has been shown to act in a consistent
‘manner over a known period of time.
4 A process control plan is in effect which will assure conformance to
specification of all process output and protection from other special
causes or inconsistency in the allowed special cause.
See also Appendix A for a discussion on time dependent processes.
Process Indices
The accepted practice in the automotive industry is to calculate the
capability (common cause variation) only after a process has been
demonstrated to be in a state of statistical control. These results are used
as a basis for prediction of how the process will perform. ‘There is little
lue in making predictions based on data collected from a process that
is not stable and not repeatable over time. Special causes are responsible
tor changes in the shape, spread, or location of a process distribution, and
thus can rapidly invalidate prediction about the process. That is, in
order for the various process indices and ratios to be used as
predictive toals, the requirement is that the data used to calculate
them are gathered Srom processes that are in a state of statistical
control.
Process indices can be divided into two categories: those that are
calculated using within-subgroup estimates of variation and those using
total variation when estimating a given index (see also chapter TV)
Several different indices have been developed because:
1) No single index can be universally applied to all processes, and
2) No given process can be completely described by a single index.
For example, it is recommended that C; and Cx both be used (see
Chapter IV), and further that they be combined with graphical techniques
to better understand the relationship between the estimated distribution
and the specification limits. In one sense, this amounts to comparing (and
trying to align) the “voice of the process” with the “voice of the
customer” (see also Sherkenbach (1991).
All indices have weaknesses and can be misleading. Any inferences
drawn from computed indices should be driven by appropriate
interpretation of the data from which the indices were computed,
aCHAPTER I~ Section E
Process Conttol and Process Capability
Automotive companies have set requirements for process capability. It is
the reader's responsibility to communicate with their customer and
determine which indices to use. In some cases, it might be best to use no
index at all. It is important to remember that most capability indices
include the product specification in the formula, If the specification is
inappropriate, or not based upon customer requirements, much time and
effort may be wasted in trying to force the process to conform. Chapter
IV deals with selected capability and performance indices and contains
advice on the application of those indices.
22‘This page intentionally left blank
23
CHAPTER | - Section E
Process Conttol and Process CapabilityCHAPTER L- Section F
The Process Improvement Cycle and Process Contr)
STAGES OF THE CONTINUAL PROCESS IMPROVEMENT CYCLE
1. ANALYZE THE PROCESS 2. MAINTAIN THE PROCESS
- Wnat should the process be doing? Monitor process performance
= What can go wrong? - Detect special cause
~ What is the process doing? variation and act upon it
Achieve a state of statistical contro.
= Determine capability
PLAN bo
act ‘stuby
3, IMPROVE THE PROCESS
rupy _-_~ Change the process to better
understand common cause
variation.
- Reduce common cause
variation
Figure I.4: The Process Improvement Cycle
4CHAPTER I Seetion F
‘The Process Improvement Cycle and Process Control
CHAPTER | - Section F
The Process Improvement Cycle and Process Control
In applying the concept of continual improvement to processes, there is a
three-stage cycle that can be useful (see Figure I.4). Every process is in
one of the three stages of the Intprovement Cycle,
4, Analyze the Process
A basic understanding of the process is a must when consideting provess
improvement. Among the questions to be answered ia order (0 achieve a
better understanding of the process are:
‘© What should the process be doing?
¥ What is expected at each step of the process?
¥ What are the operational definitions of the deliverables?
© What can go wrong?
¥ What can vary in this process?
Y What do we already know about this process’ variability?
Y What parameters are most sensitive to variation?
+ What the process doing?
Is this process producing scrap or output that requires rework?
% Doms tis poses prodace output tat sina ate of sacl
control?
Is the process capable’
Is the process reliable?
KS
Many techniques discussed in the APQP Manual’ may be applied to gain
a better understanding of the process. These activities include:
© Group meetings
+ Consuttation with peopfe who develop or operate the process
(subject matter experts”)
Review of the process’ history
* Construction of a Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
Controf charts explained in this manual are powerful tools that should be
uused during the Process Improvement Cycle. These simple statistical
methods help differentiate between common and special causes of
variation, The special causes of variation must be addressed, When a
state of statistical control has been reached, the process’ current level of
long-term capability can be assessed (see Chapter 1V),
” Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors, (1995).
25CHAPTER |
Section F
The Process Improvement Cycle and Process Contol
2. Maintain (Control) the Process
Once a better understanding of the process has been achieved, the
process must be maintamed a& an appropriate level of capability
Processes are dynamic and will change. The performance of the process
should be monitored so effective measures to prevent undesirable change
can be taken. Desirable change also should be understood and
institutionalized. Again, the simple statistical methods explained in this
manual can assist. Construction and use of control charts and other tools
will allow for efficient monitoring of the process. When the tool signals
that the process has changed, quick and efficient measures can be taken,
to isolate the cause(s) and act upon them,
It is too easy to stop at this stage of the Process Improvement Cycle. It is
important to realize that there is a limit to any company’s resources.
Some, perhaps many. processes should be at this stage. However, failure
to proceed 1 the next stage in this cycle can result in a significant
competitive disadvantage. The attainment of “world class” requires a
steady and planned effort to move into the next stage of the Cycle.
3. Improve the Process
Up to this point, the effort has been to stabilize the processes and
maintain them. However, for some processes, the customer will be
sensitive even to variation within engineering specifications (see Chapter
TV), In these instances, the value of continual improvement will not be
realized until variation is reduced. At this point, additional process
analysis tools, including more advanced statistical methods such as
designed experiments and advanced control charts may be useful
Appendix H lists some heipful references for further study.
Process improvement through variation reduction typically involves
‘purposefully introducing changes into the process and measuring the
effects. The goal is a better understanding of the process, so that the
common cause variation can be further reduced. The intent of this
reduction is improved quality at lower cost.
When new process parameters have been determined, the Cycle shits
back to Analyze the Process. ice changes have been made, process
stability will need to be reconfirmed. The process then continues to
move around the Process Improvement Cycle.CHAPTER |- Seetion F
“The Process improvement Cycle and Process Control
‘This page intentionally left blank
7CHAPTER Section G
Control Chants: Tools Fat Process Control and Improvernent
CONTROL CHARTS
Upper Controt Limit
Conter Line
Lower Controt Limit | —___
1. Collection
* Gather Data and plot on a chart.
2. Control
+ Calculate trial control limits from process data.
+ Identify special causes of variation and act upon them
3. Analysis and improvement.
+ Quantify common cause variation; take action to reduce it.
These three phases are repeated for continual process improvement
Figure 1.5: Control Charts,
28CHAPTER | ~Section
Control Chants: Tools Fer Process Control and Improvement
CHAPTER | ~ Section G
Control Charts
Tools For Process Control and Improvement
In his books‘, Dr. W. E. Deming identifies two mistakes frequently made
in process control:
“Mistake 1. Ascribe a variation or a mistake (0 a special cause,
‘when in fact the cause belongs to the system (common causes),
Mistake 2. Ascribe a variation or a mistake to a system (common
causes), when in fact the cause was special
Over adjustment [tampering] is a common example of mistake
No. { Never doing anything to try to find a special cause is a
common example of mistake No.2."
For effective variation management during production, there must be an
effective means of detecting special causes. There is a common
misconception that histograms can be used for this purpose. Histograms
are the graphical representation of the distributional form of the process
variation. The distributional form is studied to verify that the process
variation is symmetric and unimodat and that it follows a normal
distribution.
Unfortunatefy normatity does not guarantee that there are no special
causes acting on the process, That is, some special causes may change
the process without destroying its symmetry or unimodality. Also a non-
ormat distrivution may flave no special causes acting upon it but its
distributional form is non-symmetrc.
Time-based statistical and probabilistic methods do provide necessary
and sufficient methods of determining if special causes exist. Although
several classes of methods are useful in this task, the most versatile and
robust is the genre of control chants which were first developed and
implemented by Dr. Walter Shewhart of the Bell Laboratories” while
studying process data in the 1926°s. He first made the distinction
between controlled and uncontiolled variation due 0 what is caited
common and special causes. He developed a simple but powerfll tool to
separate the two ~ the control chart. Since that time, control charts have
been used successfully in @ wide vatiety of process control and
improvement situations. Experience has shown that control charts
effectively ditect attention toward special causes of variation when they
occur and reffect the extent of common cause variation that must be
reduced by system or process improvement.
It is impossible to teduce the above mistakes to zero. Dr. Shewhart
realized this and developed a graphical approach to minimize, over the
long run, the economic loss from both mistakes.
* Deming (1989) and Deming (1994).
° Shewhart (1931).
29CHAPTER I - Section G
‘Control Charts: Tools Fes Process Canteol and Improvement
If process control activities assure that no special cause sources of
variation are active", the process is said to be in statistical control or “in
control.” Such processes are said to be stable, predictable, and consistent
since it is possible to predict’ the performance of the process.
The active existence of any special cause will render the process out of
statistical control or “out of control.” The performance of such unstable
processes cannot be predicted.
How do they work?
Control Limits
When Shewhart developed control charts he was concerned with the
economic control of processes; i.e, action is taken on the process only
when special causes are present. To do this, sample statistics are
compared t0 control limits. But how are these limits determined?
Consider a process distribution that can be described by the normal fort.
The goal is to determine when special causes are affecting it. Another
‘way of saying this is, “Has the process changed since it was last looked
at it or during the period sampled?”
‘Shewhart's Two Rules for the Presentation of Data:
Data should always be presented in such a way that preserves the
‘evidence in the data for all the predictions that might be made from these
data,
Whenever an average, range, or histogram is used to summarize data,
the summary should not mislead the user into taking any action that the
user would not take if the data were presented in a time series.
Has the process
changed
‘Since the normal distribution is described by its process location (mean)
and process width (range or standard deviation) this question becomes:
Has the process location or process width changed?
Consider only the location. What approach can be used to determine if
the process location has changed? One possibility would be to look at
‘This is done by using the process information to identify and eliminate the existence of special causes
cr detecting them and removing their effect when they do occur.
"As with all probabilistic methods some risk is involved. The exact level of belief in prediction of
future actions cannot be determined by statistical measures alone. Subject-matter expertise is
required.
30CHAPTER | - Section G
Control Charts: Tools For Process Control and Improvement
every part produced by the process, but that is usually not economical
‘The alternative is to use a sample of the process, and calculate the mean
of the sample.
Has the process
location changed
take n samples:
calculate x
If the process has not changed, will the sample mean be equal to the
distribution mean?
The answer is that this very rarely happens. But how is this possible?
fier all, the process has not changed. Doesn't that imply that the
process mean remains the same? The reason for this is that the sample
‘mean is only an estimation of the process mean,
To make this a little clearer, consider taking a sample of size one. The
‘mean of the sample is the individual sample itself. With such random
samples ftom the distribution, the readings will eventually cover the
entire process range. Using the formula:
Range of the distribution of means = (Ye) Process Range
for a sample of size four, the resulting range of sample averages will be.
yva~M, of the process range; for a sample of size 100 it will be
of the process range.!?
YNi00= Ho
‘Shewhart used this sampling distribution to establish an operational
definition of “in statistical control.” First, start off with the assumption
that the process is in statistical control, i¢., innocent until proven guilty.
Then, compare the sample to the sampling distribution using the 43
standard deviation limits. These are caffed control limits. If the sample
falls outside these limits then there is reason to believe that a special
cause is present. Further, itis expected that all the (random) samples will
exhibit « random ordering within these limits, If a group of samples
shows a pattern there is reason to believe that a special cause is present.
(see Chapter I, Section C, and Chapter Il, Section A),
"? See the Central Limit Theorem,
'° Shewhart selected the +3 standard deviation limits as useful limits in achieving the economic control of
processes.
31CHAPTER | Section G
Control Charts: Tools For Process Consrol and Improvement
Distribution of Averages Distribution of indivicaa's
~N
take n samples
caloulate &
ue va
: I :
due to Sampling Variation
In general, to set up a control chart we calculate:
Centerline ~ average of the statistic being analyzed
uc
pper control limit = centerline + 3 x standard deviation of the averages
LCL. = lower control limit = cemerline -3 x standard deviation of the averages
Approach:
Since Control Charts provide the operational definition of “in statistical
control,” they are usefull tools at every stage of the Improvement Cycle
(sce Chapter I, Section F). Within each stage, the PDSA" cycle should
be used.
For analysis of existing data sets
For the Analysis and Improvement stages of the cycle:
+ Review the data
Y Is the metric appropriate: i., does it reflect a process attribute
and tied to a key business factor?
Y Are the data consistemt; ie., is the same operational definition
used by all parties collecting the data?
¥ Are the data reliable; ice, is # planned data collection scheme
utilized?
Y Is the measurement system appropriate and acceptable?
‘+ Plot the data
Y Plot using the time order
¥ Compare to control limits and determine if there are any points
outside the control limits
* Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle; also known as the PDCA, (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle
32mean X
CHAPTER - Section G
Control Chats: Tools For Process Control and Improvement
Y Compare to the centertine and determine if there are any non-
random pattems clearly discernible
© Analyze the data
© Take appropriate action
‘The data are compared with the control limits to see whether the
variation is stable and appears to come from only common causes. If
special causes of variation are evident, the process is studied to further
determine what is affecting it. After actions (see Chapter 1, Section D)
have been taken, further data are collected, conttol limits are recalculated
if necessary, and any additional special causes are acted upon.
Afterall special causes have been addressed and the process is running in
sfatistical control, the control chart continues as a monitoring tool.
Process capability can also be calculated. If the variation from common
causes is excessive, the process cannot produce output that consistently
meets customer requirements. The process itself must be investigated,
and, typically, management action must be taken to improve the system,
For control
*+ Review the data collection scheme befor starting:
Is the metric appropriate; i.e., does it reflect a process attribute
and tied to a key business factor?
Y Will the data be consistent; i.e., is the same operational
definition used by all parties collecting the data?
Y Will the data be reliable; ie, is a planned data collection scheme
used?
Y Is the measurement system appropriate and acceptable?
'* Plot eack point as itis determined:
Y Compare to control limits and determine if there are any points
outside the control limits
Y Compare to the centerline and determine if there are any non-
random pattems clearly discernible
* Analyze the data
* Take appropriate ation:
Continue to run with no action taken; or
¥ Identify source of the special cause and remove (if unacceptable
response) or reinforce (if acceptable response): or
¥ Continue to run with no action taken and reduce sample size ot
Srequency; or
Y Initiate a continual improvement action
Often it is found that although the process was aimed at the target
‘value during initial setup, the actual process location (41) may not
The Greek letter 41 is used to indicate the actual process mean, which is estimated by the sample
33CHAPTER I
Section G
‘Gonteol Chars: Tools Far Process Control and Improvement
match this value. For those processes where the actus) location
deviates from the target and the ability to relocate the process is
economical, consideration should be given to adjusting the process
so that itis aligned with the target (see Chapter 1V, Section C), This
assumes that this adjustment does not affect the process variation.
This may not always hold true, but the causes for any possible
increase in process variation after te-targeting the provess should be
understood and assessed against both customer satisfaction and
economics.
The long-term performance of the process should continue to be
analyzed. This can be accomplished by a periodic and systematic
review of the ongoing control charts. New evidence of special
causes migm be revealed. Some special causes, when understood,
will be beneficial and useful for process improvement Others will
be detrimental, and will need to be corrected or removed.
The purpose of the Improvement Cycle is to gain an understanding of the
process and its variability to Improve its performance. AS this
‘understanding matures, the need for continual monitoring of product
variables may become less — especially in processes where
documented analysis shows that the dominant source of variation are
more efficiently and effectively controlled by other approaches. For
example: in provesses where maintenance Is the dominant source of
variation, the process is best controlled by preventive and predictive
maintenance; for processes where process setup is the dominant source
of variation, the process is best controlled by selup control charts.
For a process that is in statistical control, improvement efforts will often
focus on reducing the common cause variation in the process. Reducing
this Variation will have the effect of “shrinking” the control limits on the
control chart (ie., the limits, upon their recalculation, will be closer
together). Many people, not familiar with control charts, feel this is
“penalizing” the process for improving. ‘They da not realize that if a
process is stable and the control limits are calculated correctly, the
chance that the process will erroneously yield an out-of-control point is
the same regardless of the distance between the control limits (see
Chapter I, Section E).
One area deserving mention is the question of recalculation of control
chart limits. Once property computed, and if no changes to the common
cause variation of the process occur, then the control limits remain
legitimate, Signals of special causes of variation do fot require the
recalculation of conteal limits, For long-term analysis of control charts, it
is best to recalculate control limits as infrequently as possible; only as
dictated by changes in the process.
For continual process improvement, repeat the three stages of the
Improvement Cycle: Analyze the Process; Maintain (Control) the
Process; Improve the Process, see Figure 1.4.
34CHAPTER | - Section G
Control Chants: Tools For Process Conteo| and Improvement
‘This page intentionally left blankCHAPTER 1 Section H
Effective Use and Benefits OF Comrot Chans
BENEFITS OF CONTROL CHARTS
Properly used, control charts can:
* Be used by operatars for ongoing control of a process
‘* Help the process perform consistently and predictably
* Allow the process to achieve
— Higher quality
~ Lower unit cost
—Higher effective capability
* Provide a common language for discussing the performance of the
process
* Distinguish special from common causes of variation, as @ guide to
local action or action on the system.
36CHAPTER I~ Section H
UEflective Use and Benefits Of Control Chars
CHAPTER | - Section H
Effective Use and Benefits of Control Charts
Important benefits can be obtained from the effective use of control
charts. The gains and benefits from the control charts are directly related
to the following:
Management Philosophy: How the company is managed can directly
impact the effectiveness of SPC.
The following are examples of what needs to be present:
‘+ Focus the organization on variation reduetion,
© Establish an open environment that minimizes internal competition
and supports cross-functional teamwork.
* Support and fund management and employee training in the proper
use and application of SPC.
‘© Show support and interest in the application and resulting benefits of
properly applied SPC. Make regular visits and asks questions in
those areas,
‘© Apply SPC to promote the understanding of variation in engineering
processes.
Apply SPC to management data and use the information in day-to-
day decision making,
The above items support the requirements contained in
ISO 9000:2000 and ISO/TS 16949:2002.
Engineering Philosophy: How crigineering,uses data to develop designs
can and will have an influence on the level and type of variation in the
finished product,
The following are some ways that engineering can show effective use of
spc:
‘+ Focus the engineering organization on variation reduction throughout
the design process; ¢.g., number of design changes, design for
manufacturing and assembly, personnel moves, etc.
* Establish an open engineering environment that minimizes internal
competition and supports cross-functional teamwork,
‘© Support and fund engineering management and employees training
in the proper use and application of SPC.
© Apply SPC to promote the understanding of variation in engineering
processes,
Require an understanding of variation and stability ia relation to
measurement and the data that are used for design development.
37CHAPTER I Section ¥
fective Use and Benefits Of Conwol Chan
‘+ Support engineering changes proposed due to analysis of SPC
information to aid in the reduction of variation.
‘Manufacturing: How manufacturing develops and operates machines
and transfer systems can ionpact the level and type of variation in the
finished product:
‘© Focus the manufacturing organization on variation reduction; e.g.,
number of different processes, impact of malti-finture and multi-toal
processes, tool and machine maintenance, etc.
+ Establish an open engineering environment that minimizes internal
‘competition and supports cross-functional teamwork.
+ Support and fund manufacturing management and employees
training in the proper use and application of SPC.
‘+ Apply SPC in the understanding of variation in the manufacturing
‘provesses,
* Require an understanding of variation and stability in relation to
measurement and the data that are used for process design
development.
‘© Use the analysis of SPC information to support process changes for
‘he reduction of variation,
‘© Do not release control charts to operators until the process is stable.
‘The transfer of responsibility for the process to production should
occur after the process is stable.
‘© Assure proper placement of SPC data for optimum use by the
employees.
Quality Control: The Quality function is a critical component in
providing support for an effective SPC process:
‘© Support SPC training for management, engineering, and employees
in the organization.
© Mentor key people in the organization in the proper application of
SPC.
Assist inthe identification and reduction of the sources of variation
‘+ Ensure optimum use of SPC data and information.
Production: Production personne! are direetly selated to the process and
can affect process variation. They should:
* Be properly trained in the application of SPC and problem solving.
© Have an understanding of variation and stability in relation to
measurement and the data that are used for process control and
improvement.
* Be alert to and communicate when conditions change.
Update, maintain and display control charts within area of
responsibility
38CHAPTER - Section H
Effective Use and Benefits OF Control Charts
‘© Interact and lear about the process from the information collected,
# Use the SPC information in real time to run the proc
Application of the concepts outlined above will result in the proper
environment for the understanding and reduction of variation. Then the
Plan-Do-Study-Act process ean be used to further improve the process
Ata minimum, the use of SPC for process monitoring will result in the
process being maintained at its current performance level. However, real
improvements can be achieved when SPC is used to direct the way
processes are analyzed,
Proper use of SPC ean result ia an organization focused on improving the
quality of the product and process.
29.‘CHAPTER | —Seetica 4
Elective Use and Benefits Of Control Charts
This page intentionally left blank
40CHAPTER Il
Control Charts
41This page intentionally left blank
a2Introduction:
cuaPTER IL
Coneot Chars
Control charts can be used to monitor or evaluate a process. There are
basically two types of control charts, those for variables data and those
for attributes data. The process itself will dictate which type of control
chart to use. (f the data derived from the process are of a discrete nature
(eg. go/no-go, acceptable/not acceptable) then an attributes type of chart
would be used. If the date derived from the process are of a continuous
nature (e.g., diameter, length) then a variables type of chart would be
used. Within each chart type there are several chast combinations that
can be used to further evaluate the process.
Some of the more common chart types, Average (.) and Range (R)
charts, Individuals (1 ) chart, Moving Range ( MR) chatt,etc., belong to
the variables chart Eemily. Charts based on count ar percent data (€&., P,
np, c, u) belong to the attributes chart family.
When introducing controt charts into an organization, it is important to
prioritize problem areas and use charts where they are most needed.
Problem signals can come from the Cost control system, user complaints,
internal bottlenecks, ete. The use of attributes control charts on key
overall quality measures often points the way to the specific process
areas that would need more detailed examination including the possible
use of control charts for Variables.
If available, variables data are always preferred as they contain more
useful information than attributes data for the same amount of effort, For
example you need a larger sample size for attributes than for variables
data to have the same amount of confidence in the results. If the use of
variables measurement systems is infeasible, the application of attributes
analysis should not be overlooked
43(CHAPTER IL
Control Charts
CONTROL CHARTS TO ANALYZE THE PROCESS
Process
Process evaluation requires Measurements
ee
The outcome is a Decision
based on the Measurements
Outcome Example | Control Chart Examples |
+ Shaft 0.0. (inches) X for the Average of
+ Hole distance from reference surface (mm) the Measurement
* Circuit resistance (ohms)
* Railcar transit time (hours) R Chart for the Ranges
+ Engineering change processing time (hours)| of the Measurement
AL
The measurement method must produce accurate and precise results over time
Not Pre: Precise
ane)
Not Accurate ° © e)
oe
Accurate*
*Note: Some current metrology literature defines accuracy as the lack of bias. |
Figure Il.1: Variables Data
44CHAPTER tL
Conteol Chans
Variables Control Charts
Variables control charts represent the typical application of statistical
process control where the processes and their outputs can be
characterized by variable measurements (see Figure 1.1).
I for several reasons:
Variables control charts are particularly use!
the diameter is 16.45 mm") contains
the diameter
© A quantitative value (c.2.,
more information than a simple yes-no statement (e.g,
is within specification”);
‘© Although collecting variables data is usually more costly than
collecting attributes data (e-g., Bolno-g0), a decision can be reached
‘more quickly with a smaller sample size, This can lead to lower total
measurement costs due to increased efficiency:
‘© Because fewer parts need to be checked before making reliable
decisions, the time delay between an “out-of-control” signal and
corrective action is usually shorter, and
* With variables data, performance of a process can be analyzed, and
improvement can be quantified, even if all individual values are
within the specification limits. This is important in seeking continual
improvement
A variables chart can explain process data in terms of its. process
variation, piece-to-piece variation, and its process average, Because of
this, control charts for variables are usually prepared and analyzed in
pairs, one chart for process average and another for the process variation, |
The most commonly used pair are the X and R charts, X is the
arithmetic average of the values in small subgroups ~ a measure of
process average: R is the range of values within each subgroup (highest
minus lowest) ~ a measure of process variation. However, there are a
number of other control charts that may be more useful under certain
circumstances.
|
‘The ¥ and R charts may be the most common charts, but they may not
be the most appropriate for all situations.
45CHAPTER I
Coateol Charts
Process
a
L
[materats ] [wetrods | [Measuromen]
CONTROL CHARTS TO CLASSIFY THE PROCESS
Decision is based on the
Classification of the Outcome
Outcome Example
Control Chart Examples
Vehicle does not leak
Lamp lights does not light
Hole diameter undersized or oversized
{evaluated using a go/nogo gage)
Shipment to dealer correct or incorrect
Bubbles in a windshield
Paint imperfections on door
Errors on an invoice
those criteria are met must produce consistent
The conformance criteria must be clearly defined and the procedures for deciding if
P Chart for Proportion of
Units Nonconforming
‘np Chart for Number of
Units Nonconforming
© Chart for Number of
Nonconformances per Unit
u Chart for Number of
Nonconformities per Unit
results over time.
Acceptance Criteria Examples
Comment
Surface should be free from flaws
What is a flaw?
Surface should conform to master standard
in color, texture, brightness
and have not imperfections
Conform to what degree?
Do inspectors agree?
How is it measured?
‘Any material applied to mirror back to shall
[ not eause viele staining ofthe backing
* Visible to whom?
Under what conditions
Figure 1.2: Attributes DataCHAPTER IL
Control Charts
Attributes Control Charts
Although control charts are most often thought of in terms of variables,
contrat charts have also been developed for attributes; see Figure 1.2.
Attributes data have discrete values and they can be counted for
recording and analysis, With attribute analysis the data are separated into
distinct categories (conforming/nonconforming, pass'fail, go/n0-Ro,
present/absent, low/medium/high). Examples include the presenoe of a
required label, the continuity of an electrical circuit, visual analysis of a
painted surface, or ertors in a typed document.
Other examples are of characteristics that are measurable, but where the
results are recorded in a simple yes/no fashion, such as the conformance
ofa shaft diameter when measured on a go/no-go gage, the acceptability
of door margins to a visual or gage check, or on-time delivery
performance. Control charts for attributes are important for several
reasons:
+ Attributes data situations exist in any technical or administrative
process, so attributes analysis techniques are useful in many
applications. The most significant difficulty is to develop precise
operational definitions of what is conforming,
* Attributes data are already available in many situations — wherever
there are existing inspections, repair logs, sorts of rejected material,
ete, In these cases, 10 additional effort is required for data collection.
‘The only expense involved is for the effort of converting the data to
control chart form,
© Where new data must be collected, attributes information is
generally quick and inexpensive to obtain. With simple gaging (c.g.
8 goyno-go gage or visual standards), specialized measurement skills
are often are not required, There are many occasions where
specialized measurement skills ate required especially when the part
‘measured falls in the “gray” area."
© Much data gathered for management summary reporting are often in
attributes form and can benefit from control chart analysis. Examples
include serap rates, quality audits and material rejections. Because of
the ability to distinguish between special and common cause
variation, control chart analysis can be vatuable in interpreting these
‘management reports.
This mtanuat will use conforming/nonconforming throughout attributes
discussions simply because
‘+ These categories are “traditionally” used
Organizations just starting on the path to continual improvement
usually begin with these categories
+ Many of'the examples available in literature use these categories,
{t should not be inferred that these are the only “acceptable” categories or
that attributes chants cannot be used with Case 1 processes; see Chapter I,
Section E."”
'° See the Attribute Measurement System Study chapter in the MSA Reference Manual.
” See also: Montgomery (1997), Wheeler (1991, 1995), Wise and Fair (1998).
47CHAPTER 1
Conte! Charts
Elements of Control Charts
There is no single “approved” manner of displaying control charts,
However the reasons for the use of control charts (see Chapter I, Section
E) must be kept in mind, Any format is acceptable as long as it contains
the following (see Figure 11.3):
* (A) Appropriate scale
The scale should be such that the natural
be easily viewed. A scale which yields a "
not enable analysis and contral of the process.
YES
© (B)UCL, LCL
The ability to determine outliers which signal special causes the
control chart requires control timits based on the sampling
distribution. Specifications limits should not be used in place of valid
‘control limits far process analysis and control.
© B) Centerline
The control chart requires a centerline based on the sampling
distribution in order {0 allow the determination of non-random
patterns which signal special causes.
© (©) Subgroup sequence / timeline
Maintaining the sequence in which the data are collected provides
indications of “when” a special cause occurs and whether that special
cease is time-oriented
© (D) Identification of out-of-control plotted values
Plotted points which are out of statistical control should be identified
on the control chart. For process control the analysis for special
‘causes and their identification should occur as each sample is plotted
as well as periodic reviews of the contro} chart as a whole for non-
random patterns
© (Ep Event Log
Besides the collection, charting, and analysis of data, additional
supporting information should be collected. This information should
48(CHAPTER IL
‘Conttol Charts
include any potential sources of variation as well as any actions
taken to resolve out-of-control signals (OCS). This information can
be recorded on the control chart or om a separate Event Log.
IF there has not been any change in the process between subgroups, itis
not necessary to include an entry on the process event log,
ogra
c 1 first shift ~ new setup; insert 1627; material lot #1984
14 second shift - new setup: insert IC27; material lot #1931
| 6 __ [third shift ~ new setup; insert C84; material lot #150
w= | 7 first shift - material lot #2179, replaced bad insert
i) third shift - material lot #2193
12 first shift - material lot #1950
23 | second shift - material lot #ZM18
[L ete.
| ;
Figure II.3: Elements of Control Charts
During the initial analysis of the process, knowledge of what would
constitute a potential special cause for this specific process may be
incomplete. Consequently, the initial information collection activities
may include events which will prove out not to be special causes. Such
events need not be identified in subsequent information collection
activities, If initial information collection activities are not sufficiently
comprehensive, then time may be wasted in identifying specific events
which cause out-of-control signals.
49CHAPTER IL
Control Charis
For control charts which are included a8 a part of a report and for those
which are maintained manually the following “header” information
should be included:
‘* What: part/product/service name and number/identification
‘© Where: operation/process step information, name/idemtification
© Who: operator and appraiser
‘© How: measurement system used, name/number, units (scale)
‘© How many: subgroup size, uniform or by sample
© When: sampling scheme (frequency and time)
Figure 11.4 shows a completed manually maintained control chart which
includes all these elements
50CHAPTER I
Control Chans
Thee TL ote aaa)
stloy st 6s cr 7 or “ce Ts LT SEP LT ES 69 95 OF a
zsirr vs se oF FY scls9 oe ES oF CS St Lr TL RP - gs
ax) ax WN A Ow WoW WW wo a
AX Y ay wow WOW oo par g
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2 Ss
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mi ®&
> se >
PROCESS INCAPABLE OF MEETING SPECIFICATIONS (OUTPUT Is PRODUCED BEYOND ONE
(OR BOTH SPECIFICATIONS):
SE sz
‘STANDARD DEVIATION AND RANGE (FOR A GIVEN SAMPLE, THE LARGER THE AVERAGE RANGE
“A, THE LARGER THE STANDARD DEVIATION ~
aa
Fives Rane Pres Fane Fives tae
sue ue —> swe —>
FROM THE EXAMPLE (ESTIMATING THE PROCESS STANOARD DEVIATION FROM THE AVERAGE RANGE);
in
= 0.169 X = 0.738
= 5 LSL = 0.500
2.38 USL = 0.900
= Rid =.169/2.33
= 0.0725
67CHAPTER Il Section A
‘Control Charting Provess
This page intentionally left blank
8CHAPTER IL Section B
Defining “Out of Control” Signals
CHAPTER Il - Section B
Defining “Out-of-Control” Signals
Point Beyond a Control
Limit.
‘The presence of one or more points beyond either control limit is primary
evidence of special cause variation at that point. This special cause could
have occurred prior to this point
Since points beyond the control limits would be rare if only variation
from common causes were present, the presumption is that a special
cause has accounted for the extreme value. Therefore, any point beyond
control limit is @ signal for analysis of the operation for the special
cause, Mark any data points that are beyond the control limits for
investigation and corrective action based on when that special cause
actually started.
A point outside a control limit is generally a sign of one or more of the
following:
‘+ The control limit or plot point has been miscalculated or misplotted.
‘© The piece-to-piece variability or the spread of the distribution has
increased (i.e., worsened), either at that one point in time or as part
ofa trend.
‘+The measurement system tras changed (e.g., a different appraiser or
instrument),
© The measurement system lacks appropriate discrimination,
For charts dealing with the spread, a point below the lower control limit
is generally a sign of one or more of the following:
© The control limit or plot point is in error.
'* The spread of the distribution has decreased (i.e., becomes better)
* The measurement
alteration of the data).
sm has changed (including possible editing or
A point beyond either control limit is generally a sign that the process
has shifted either at that one point or as part of a trend (see Figure IL).
When the ranges are in statistical control, the process spread — the
within-subgroup variation ~ is considered to be stable. The averages can
then be analyzed to see if the process location is changing over time.
Sinee control limits for X are based upon the amount of variatiow ia the
ranges, then if the averages are in statistical control, their variation is
related to the amount of variation seen in the ranges ~ the common-cause
0_ es _|
(CHAPTER 11 - Section B
Defining “Out of Control” Signals
variation of the system. If the averages aré not in control, some special
causes of variation are making the process location unstable,
Process in control for Averages Process not in control for Averages
(a point beyond the control limits)
uct
tot
X AND R CONTROL CHART
is fave Suir
Figure 1.9: Points Beyond Control Limits
Patterns or Trends Within
the Control Limits
‘The presence of unusual patterns or trends, even when all ranges are
within the control limits, can be evidence of the influence of a special
cause during the period of the pattern or trend. This could give the first
warting of an unfavorable condition which should be cotrected.
Conversely, vertain patterns or trends could be favorable and should be
studied for possible permanent improvement of the process. Comparison
of patterns between the range and average charts may give added insight.
“There are situations where an “outof-controt pattern” may be a bad
cevent for one process and a good event for another process. An example
of this is that in an X and R chart a series of 7 or more points on one
side of the centerline may indicate an out-of-control situation. If this
happened in ap chart, the process may actually be improving if the series
is below the average line (less nonconformances are being produced). So
in this case the series is a good thing ~ if we identify and retain the cause,
70(CHAPTER II - Section B
Defining “Out of Conteal
Runs
Runs — Bach of the following are signs that a process shift or trend has
begun:
'* 7points in a row on one side of the ¥ or R
‘© 7 points in a row that are consistently increasing (equal to or greater
than the preceding points), or consistently decreasing.
Mark the point that prompts the decision; it may be helpfut to extend a
reference line back to the beginning of the cun, Analysis should consider
the approximate time at which it appears that the trend or shift first
began,
PROCESS NOT IN CONTROL FOR AVERAGES PROCESS NOT IN CONTROL FOR AVERAGES
(LONG RUNS BOTH ABOVE AND BELOW THE (LONG RUNS UP)
AVERAGES)
XAND R CONTROL CHART
om
So A Se
Figure 1.10: Runs in an Average Control Chart
A run above the average range, or a run up, signifies one or both of the
following:
Y Greater spread in the output values, which could be from an
irregular cause {such as equipment malfunction or loose
‘Axturing) or from a shift in one of the process elements (e.g., 8
new, less uniform raw material lot).
YA change in the measurement system (e.g., new inspector or
gage).
1(CHAPTER 11 Section B
Defining "Out of Control” Signals
Process not in control for Ranges Process not in control for Ranges
(long runs both above and below (long run up)
the Average Range)
uct
to
This Sarthe a ag von
acon SS S/8[2 5 c/-aig-e 2/8
Figure 1.1
: Runs in a Range Control Chart
‘A nun below the average range, or a run down, signifies one or both of
the following:
¥ Smaller spread in output values, which is usually a good
condition that should be studied for wider application and
process improvement.
¥ A change in the measurement system, which could mask real
performance changes.
NOTE: As the subgroup size (n) becomes smaller (5 or less), the
likelihood of runs below R increases, so a run length of 8 or more could
be necessary to signal a decrease in process variability.
‘A tun relative to the process average is generally a sign of one or both of
the following:
Y The process average has changed ~ and may still be changing.
Y The measurement system has changed (drift, bias, sensitivity,
ete),
nCHAPTER I
Defining “Out of Conte
Obvious Nonrandom Patterns
In addition to the presence of points beyond control limits or long runs,
other distinct patterns may appear in the data that give clues to special
causes. Care should be taken not to overinterpret the data, since even
random (i¢., common cause) data can sometimes give the illusion of
nonrandomness (i.e., special causes). Examples of nonrandom patterns
could be obvious trends (even though they did not satisfy the runs tests),
cycles, the overall spread of data points within the control limits, or even
relationships among values within subgroups (e.g., the first reading
might always be the highest). One test for the overall spread of subgroup
data points is described below.
Distance of points from Ror X : Generally, about 2/3 of the plotted
points should lie within the middle third of the region between the
control limits; about 1/3 of the points should be in the outer two-thirds of
the region. If substantially more than 2/3 of the plotted points lie close to
R or ¥ investigate one or more of the following:
‘© The control limits or plot points have been miscalculated or
misplotted,
‘© The process or the sampling method is stratified; each subgroup
systematically contains measurements from two or more process
streams that have very different process averages (e.g., one piece
from each of several spindles).
© The data have been edited (subgroups with ranges that deviated
much from the average have been altered or removed)
If substantially fewer than 2/3 of the plotted points lie close to R (for 25
subgroups if 40% or fewer are in the middle third), investigate one or
both of the following:
© The control limits or plot points have been miscalculated or
misplotted.
‘The process or the sampling method causes successive subgroups to
contain measurements from two or more process streams that have
dramatically different variability (e.g., mixed lots of input materials)
If several provess streams are present, they should be identified and
tracked separately (see also Appendix A). Figure 1.12 shows a
nonrandom pattern for the R chart
BCHAPTER IT- Section B
Defining “Out of Control”
Process not in control for Ranges Process not in control for Ranges
(points too close to the Average Range) {points too close to the control Limits)
bau 23 of pits are win ride third ot
eancl ts (15 of 25 between 172 and 244)
Figure II.12: Nonrandom Patterns in a Control Chart
4HAPTER II - Section B
Defining “Out of Control” Signals
Special Cause Criteria
There are several criteria for identifying special causes (see table befSw
and AT&T (1984)), The most commonly used ate discussed above. The
decision as to which criteria to use depends on the process being
studied/controled.
7 Summary of Typical Special Cause Criteri
T points in a row on same side of centerline
6 points in a row, all increasing or all decreasing
14 points in a row, alternating up and down
2 out of 3 points > 2 standard deviations from centerline (same side)
4 out of 5 points > 1 standard deviation from
tic terline (same side)
{5 points in a row within 1 standard deviation of centerline (either side)
8 points in a row > I standard deviation from centerline (either side)
Table HLL
Note 1: Except for the first criterion, the numbers associated with the
criteria do not establish an order or priority of use, Determination of
which of the additional criteria to use depends on the specific process
characteristics and special causes which are dominant within the
process, a :
Note 2: Care should be given not to apply multiple criteria except in
those cases where it makes sense. The application of each additional
criterion increases the sensitivity of finding a special cause but also
increases the chance of a Type | error.
In reviewing the above, it should be noted that not all thes
considerations for interpretation of control can be applied on the
production floor. ‘There is simply too much for the appraiser to
remember and utilizing the advantages of a computer is often not feasible
on the production floor. So, much of this more detailed analysis may
need to be done offline rather than in real time. This supports the need
for the process event log and for appropriate thoughtful analysis to be
done after the fact.
Another consideration is in the training of operators. Application of the
additional control criteria should be used on the production floor when
applicable, but not until the operator is ready for it; both with the
appropriate training and tools. With time and experience the operator
will recognize these patterns in real time.
21 In this table, “standard deviation” refers to the standard deviation used in the calculations of the
control limits(CHAPTER II Section B
Defining “Out of Contro
Average Run Length (ARL)
Chapter | stated that decisions made based on charts should balance the
risks of Type I errors (over-control, false alarms) to Type II errors
(under-control). A measure of this balance is the Average Run Length
CARL),
The Average Run Length is the number of sample subgroups expected
between out-of-control signals. The in-conttol Average Run Length
(ARIg) is the expected number of subgroup samples between false
alarms
ARL, =——+___
Pr{Typel Error}
‘The ARL is dependent on how out-of-control signals are defined, the
true target value’s deviation from the estimate, and the true variation
relative to the estimate.
Below is a table of approximate ARL’s for the standard Shewhart X
control chart with exceeding the +3; control limits as the only out-of-
control signal
Shift in Target
°, ARL
=> 6 3704
ol 352.9
02 3084
03 253.1
os 1552
10 439
=e 15 Iso
20 63
3.0 20
= 40 -
‘This table indicates that a mean shift of 1.5 standard deviations (of the
mean) would be signaled (on average) by the 15" subgroup after the
shift. A shift of 4 standard deviations would be identified within 2
subgroups.
16CHAPTER T1- Section B
Defining “Out of Costes!” Signals
This table also shows that a false signal may be indicated for a process
without a shift (:e., the process remains in statistical control) every 370
subgroups (on average).
Since oy = rt . the practical magnitude of the shifts can be reduced by
increasing the number of items in each subgroup. Larger subgroups
reduce the size of and tighten the control limits around X .
Alternatively, the ARL's can be reduced by adding more out-of-control
criteria. Other signals such as runs tests and patterns analysis along with
the control limits will reduce the size of the ARL's
The following able is approximate ARL's for the same chart adding
the runs test of 7-points in a row on one side of X”
Shift in Target
or's ARL
0 59.8
ot 39
02 418
03 308
os 179
10 87
1s 69
20 61
3.0 20
40 12
As can be seen, adding the one extra out-of-control criterion significantly
reduces the ARLs for small shifts in the mean, a decrease in the risk of a
‘Type Il error, Note that the zero-shift (the in-control) ARI. is also
reduced significantly. This is an inerease in the risk of a Type I error or
false alaren.
This balance between wanting a long ARL when the process is in
control versus a short ARL when there is @ process change has led to the
development of other charting methods. Some of those methods are
briefly described in Chapter IL
7CHAPTER Il- Section €
Conttol Char Formulas
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18(CHAPTER II -Seetion ©
‘Control Chart Formulas:
CHAPTER II - Section C
Control Chart Formulas
Control chart constants for all control charts discussed in this section are
listed in Appendix E.
Variables Control Charts
Average and Range Charts (, 2)
Subgroup Average:
n= number of samples in a subgroup
Subgroup Range:
R (within each subgroup)
= Xs ~ Xvin
Grand Average:
o_ Xt X44 X,
zt +h,
K
= number of subgroups used to determine the
Grand Average and Average Range
‘Average Range:
R+
Estimate of the Standard Deviation of X :
ig = O/,
9CHAPTER II - Section C
Control Chart Formulas:
Chart Features:
Centerline
80
Control Limits
UCL; =X +4,RCHAPTER II- Section ©
‘Control Chart Formulas:
This page intentionally left blank
81CHAPTER TI- Section ©
‘Consol Chart Formulas
s agaais
we
we
aOVYSAV
Figure ll.14: Average and Standard Deviation Charts
x
or
see
Teor LSS EA)
82CHAPTER II - Section C
‘Control Char Formulas:
Average and Standard Deviation Charts (, s
Subgroup Average:
tw tet
n= number of samples in a subgroup
Subgroup Standard Deviation (Within-subgroup Variation):
A= number of subgroups used to determine
the Grand Average and Average
Standard Deviation
Average Standard Deviation:
Sth te
k
Estimate of the Standard Deviation of X :
Estimate of the Standard Deviation of Y:
ay,
vn
Chart Features:
Centerline Contro} Limits
Chg ak dg Clee te Aa
Also known as the pooled standard deviation
3wae
nto
Figure II.15: Median and Range Charts
x
CHAPTER I Section ©
‘Control Chart Formulas:
4Median and Range Charts (
‘CHAPTER II- Section C
‘Conteol Chart Formulas:
»R)
Sample Value: x,, i=... (sample size)
Subgroup Median:
X') is the value of the O” element in the sample
when the data are arranged in ascending order
ifm is odd
if'n is even
n= number of elements in a subgroup
A= number of subgroups used to determine the
Average Median and Average Range
Subgroup Range:
Xym_ (Within each subgroup)
Average Range:
RAR +R,
or ree
Estimate of the Standard Deviation of X=
Var
Chart Features:
Centerline Control Limits
ch, = ¥ UCL, =¥+4R LC
CL, =R UCL, = D,R LCL, =D,R
® This approach to the Median Chart uses averages in the calculation of the centerline and control
limits. There are other approaches in the literature which do not use averages.
85Control Char Formulas:
(CHAPTER I1- Section
Bis srowor
a8 X ann
ene
Figure 1.16: Individual and Moving Range Charts
YW aBuey Bunow
86
poeeeeeet go eet a= een ee eee eee
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| org 6:01 uoRonpoig 4 woweavaave9 poy 300 |
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4S 0x sivnaiaiant
core
eyo eBuey Bulow pue sjenpiaipulCHAPTER I1- Section C
‘Control Chart Formulas
Individuals and Moving Range Charts (, /@R)
i=l... individual values
Moving Range:
MR, =
xy) t= 20k
(Range between current value and previous value.)
Average Moving Range:
Chart Features:
Centerline Control Limits
UCLy =X +E,R
UCL, = D,R
Because moving ranges are involved, the points being plotted on the
range chart are correlated. Therefore, valid signals occur only in the
form of points beyond the control limits. Other rules used to evaluate the
data for non-random patterns (see Chapter II, Section B) are not reliable
indicators of out-of-control conditions.
87‘CHAPTER II - Section
‘Contra Chaet Formulas:
gle aaa
8)
"Figure 1.17: Proportion Nonconforming Chart
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88CHAPTER IL Section ¢
Control Chart Formulas:
Attributes Control Charts
Control Charts for Nonconforming Items
Attributes charts are part of probability based charts discussed in Chapter
II. These control charts use categorical data and the probabilities related
to the categories to identify the presences of special causes, The analysis,
of categorical data by these charts generally utilizes the binomial, or
poisson distribution approximated by the normal form,
Traditionally attributes charts are used (© track unacceptable parts by
identifying nonconforming items and nonconformities within an item.
There is nothing intrinsic in attributes charts that restricts them to be
solely used in charting nonconforming items. They can also be used for
tracking positive events. However, we will follow tradition and refer to
these as nonconformances and nonconformities.
Proportion Nonconforming (p Chart)
Guideline:
Since the control limits are based on a normal approximation, the
sample size used should be such that np > 5
Individual Vatue
number of parts inspected;
‘ap, = number of nonconforming items found
Average of Individual Values
np, + np + oF AP
=
where k= number of subgroups
a a ee
k
P
if-all the a's are equal
* An alternative to these charts is the Individuals and Moving Range Chart (see Wheeler (1995)).
89,(CHAPTER I1- Section ©
Control Chart Formulas:
=
Chart Features:
Centerline Control Lit
a1
If the sample size is constant (n)
Control Limits
Vpd-7)
vn
UCL, = p+3
LCL, = p-3
Constant control limits when the sample size varies
(for situations where ™""" > 0.75 )
max
Control Limits
erage sample size)
average sample size)
Example Uses:
‘+ Accept/Reject Decisions with constant or variable subgroup size
Y- First Time Quality (FTQ) results”
¥ Proportion nonconforming
¥ Proportion conforming”
¥ Proportion of items above (or below) a threshold value
+ Sudgment Decisions
¥ Proportion of items within a specified category
¥ Proportion of items above (or below) a threshold value
¥ Proportion Uptime (equipment)
2 This is alternatively known as FTC (First Time Capability) and RTY (Rolled Throughput Yield),
2 This chart is sometimes called a q-chart; this is based on the practice of calculating the parameter
P.
90CHAPTER IT Section €
‘Control Chart Formulas:
‘This page intentionally left blank
oOControl Char Formulas:
‘CHAPTER II - Section ©
iSieaarsarermas |
ID
SOS
omnes |
| Saisvepun |
I = sof 26 “on Wind am oxgendanoy | S195-SA, em
(cesses exer mols ee
yeyo du
Figure 11.18: Number of Nonconforming Chart
92(CHAPTER If Section ©
‘Control Chart Formulas:
Number of Nonconforming Chart (np Chart)
Restriction:
Requires a constant subgroup size =
Guideline:
Since the control limits are based on a normal approximation,
the sample size used should be such that np 2 5
Individual Value:
np, ‘n=number of parts inspected;
np = number of nonconforming items found
Average of Individual Values:
p, mB.
opt np,
Chart Features:
Centerline Control Limits;
cL,
7 OChy = np +391 np +3) mpl)
np - 2
LCL, = np -3, np ~3y np(\—p)
V n
Example Use
‘+ Accept/Reject Decisions with eonstan¢ subgroup size
¥ First Time Quality (FTO) results
¥ Number nonconforming
¥ Number conforming
¥ Number of items above (or below) a threshold value
‘+ Judgment Decisions
¥ ‘Number of items within a specified category
¥ Number of items above (or below) a threshold value
¥ Number of times a condition occurs
93[ajax aloes aca] T ; ewan es
oe
reve ran
Figure lI.19: Number of Nonconforming per Unit Chart
(CHAPTER II- Section ©
Control Chart Formulas:
evo so * =n mmm GEIM! : f
NCO cn crm | so]
Te ee | sas Po ee oo
ueygnCHAPTER II- Section C
‘Control Char Formulas
Number of Nonconformities per Unit Chart (u Chart)
Guideline:
ince the control limits are based on a normal
approximation, the sample size used must be large enough
so that the number of subgroups with c= 0 is small.
Individual Value:
¢,= number of nonconformities found in sample i;
11, = is the sample size
idual Values:
Average of Indit
+14
Chart Features:
Centerline Controt Limits
CL,=% vet, =0+ 88 2943 [%
vn n,
wa ___, fa
We Nn
For constant control limits when the sample size varies
MN”. 50.75 )
max n,
(for situations where
Control Limits:
wverage sample size)
LCL,
average sample size)
Example Uses:
‘© Accept/Reject Decisions with variable number items per unit
Y Quality rates for specified unit designation
¥ Average number (rate) of nonconformities per unit
¥ Average number (rate} of items within one or more categories
Judgment Decisions
¥ “Average number (rate) of items within one or more categories
Y Average number (ate) of items above (or beiow) a threshold
value per wit
95,Toe]
‘her
bosias
‘sola
Figure li.20: Number of Nonconformities Chart
pees
(CHAPTER Il Section C
Control Chart Formulas:
18SL on GFL =a mmm algerdovoy |
4109 yo#3_/H109 o1ouN SMe IY
“eyo(CHAPTER IT Section ©
Control Chart Formulas:
Number of Nonconformities Chart (c Chart)
Restriction:
Requires a constant subgroup size =n
Guidi
Since the contro! limits are based on 2 sormal approximation, the sample
used must be large ertough so that the number of subgroups with ¢ = 0 is
small
Individual Value:
¢,= aumber of nonconformities found in sample;
Average of Individual Values:
Fett
k= number of samples
Chart Features:
Centerline Control Limits
Cly= UCL, =e +3NE
Lc
—3VE
Example Uses:
‘© Accept/Reject Decisions with a constant number icems per unit
¥ Quality level for specified unit designation.
Y Total nunber of nonconformities per unit
Y Total number of items within one or more categories
+ Judgment Decisions
¥ Total number of items within one or more categories per unit
Y Total number of items above (or below) a threshold value per
unit
¥- Total number of times a condition occurs within a unit
97CHAPTER 11 Section ©
Control Chart Formulas:
This page intentionally left blank
98.CHAPTER III
Other Types of Control Charts
”(CHAPTER
Other Types of Control Chats
CONTROL CHARTS
Upper Control! Limit
Center Line
Lower Control Limit
1. Collection
* Gather Data and plot on a chart.
2. Control
3. Analysis and Improvement
* Calculate trial control limits from process data.
+ Identify special causes of variation and act upon them.
+ Quantify common cause variation; take action to reduce it.
These three phases are repeated for continual process improvement
Figure ill.1: Gontrol Charts
100Introduction
(CHAPTER TIL
Other Types of Control Charts
There are several types of control charts other than those discussed in the
previous chapters. Most of these charts were developed to address
specific process situations or conditions which can affect the optimal use
of the standard contro! charts. A brief description of the more common
charts will follow below, This description will define the charts, discuss
when they should be used and list the formulas associated with the chart,
as appropriate. If more information is desired regarding these charts or
others, please consult a reference text ¢hat deals specifically with these
types of contro! chars.
Based Charts
Red
Yellow
Green
Probability based charts belong to a class of control charts that uses
categorical data and the probabilities related to the categories. The
analysis of categorical data generally uses the binomial, multinoaziai or
poisson distribution. Examples of these charts are the attributes charts
discussed in Chapter N! Section C. The attributes charts use the categories
of “good” and “bad” (€.g., conforming and nonconforming). However,
there is nothing inherent in any of these forms (or any other forms) that
requires one or more categories to be “bad.”
‘The problem is that users tend to apply by example, rather than by
knowledge. This is as much the fault of professionals and teachers, as it
is the student's, There is a tendency to take the easy way Out, using
traditional (and stereotypical) examples. This leads to a failure to reatize
that quality practitioners once had (or were constrained to) the tolerance
philosophy; ie., make it “to print” (or “close enough”),
Stoplight Control
With stoplight control charts, the process location and variation are
controlled using one chart. The chart tracks the number of data points in
the sample in each of the designated categories. The decision criteria are
based on the expected probabilities for these categories.
A typical scenario will divide the process variation into three parts:
warning low, target, warning high. The areas outside the expected
Process variation (66>) are the stop zones. One simple but effective
control procedure of this type is stoplight control which is a semi-
Variables (more than two categories) technique using double sampling. In
this approach the target area is designated green, the warning areas as
yellow, and the stop zones as red. The use of these colors gives rise to
the “stoplight” designation
101