MSA is concerned with the assessment of error and variability inherent in a measuring system. In manufacturing industries, product and process conditions reported as a result of measuring exercises are used for analysis and to establish action plans (for correction or improvement). Thus the measuring system is a major contributor to costs and quality and it is vital that the data output from use of the system is reliable.

 

A major output of a MSA exercise is an index for overall repeatability and reproducibility of the system under review. This is commonly known as the R & R index and is compared to acceptance criteria to determine system acceptability.

 

The course will define and explain major aspects of a measuring system which must be considered and analysed to establish acceptable levels of reliability to support acceptable R & R indices.

 

These aspects will include discrimination, bias, linearity, stability, repeatability and reproducibility. Methods of assessing and analysing these aspects will be explained and demonstrated.

 

A major aspect of the course is to coach attendees in the practical requirements of assessing the R & R index for a system being reviewed. This includes arrangements for inspection exercises, determination of sample sizes, data recording, calculations, and analysis of results.