What Is Measurement System Analysis?

A recent survey of data professionals found that even in 2022, companies were still struggling withhow to make use of the mountains of data they collect. This data is critical for any decision−making process. With this in mind, it's essential to have accurate information at the beginning−and throughout the entire measurement system analysis process−so that employees can become more productive. Remember that building a strong foundation starts with good planning and execution.

What do you understand by Measurement System Analysis?

Measuring process variability can be difficult to determine. One way to evaluate it is with Measurement System Analysis (MSA), which is used to certify the measurement system for use. MSA evaluates the system’s accuracy, precision, and stability.

Here are the various sources in the process of measurement that you must know −

• Process

• Personnel

• Tools and Equipment

• Measuring Items

• Environmental Factors

When developing a measurement system, it's important to include sources of variation like material sourcing and process methods. In order to properly measure systems, you need to use quality tools like online calculation or sampling. The sum of these two values represents the total variation in a system.

Need for Measurement System Analysis

Data can be extremely valuable. MSA systems help assure that the data collected is accurate and that the system of collecting the data is appropriate to the process. Having good reliable data at your disposal will prevent time, labor, and scrap in a manufacturing process.

A manufacturing company begin receiving calls from several of their customers reporting that they received non−compliant materials. These parts are not properly snapping together to form a smooth surface or wouldn't lock in place.

The parts are being produced out of speculations, but the operator follows the inspection plan and uses the assigned gages. The problem is that because the gage did not have adequate resolution, it doesn’t detect the non−conforming parts in time.

The wrong measurements can lead to frustrated customers, inaccurate sales data, and wasted resources. MSA prevents the problem by improving its measurement system so all data about the business is accurate and useful for optimum success.

How can you perform MSA?

It's a technique used to evaluate the integrity, capability, and performance of measurement systems within a given context.

When it comes to effectiveness, context is everything. When it comes time to review the measurements, the methods used and the tools collected, the goal is to determine the effectiveness, explore sources of variation, and create a measurement system that enhances the organization by addressing these issues.

Here are some steps to consider when performing MSA −

Data Classifications

Before data analysis can take place, it must first be classified. This means looking at the content of what's being analyzed as well as its dimensions. There are two types of data analytics you'll be focusing on: continuous data and attribute data.

The Master Sample

Before you run any experiments, it's important to establish a sample and a reference value. Some processes may already have established "master samples" for the high and low ends of the expected measurement specification.

The R&R Study of Gage

To evaluate the level of uncertainty within a measurement system, Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility (Gage R & R) can be performed. Select the gage that needs to be evaluated and perform the following steps −

• Random samples of parts produced during regular production runs are required to purchase goods from the manufacturer

• Pick three tools or operators that are your typical go−to for inspection

• Make sure each of the operations measures the sample parts and records the data.

• Repeat the process of measuring three times with every operator using the similar parts

• Calculate the average (mean) readings and range of each individual operator

• The mean, standard deviation, and range of measurements for each sample part used in the study

• This practice calculates the amount of variation found in each type of equipment.

• Calculate the variation introduced by different operators to determine the amount of work needed for a given test.

• Calculate the variation in parts

The Gage R & R Percentage helps determine the quality of submissions. The guidelines for making the determination are provided below:

• If your Gage R & R score falls below 10%, the measurement system is acceptable.

• There are different methods of checking the accuracy of a Gage R & R test. If it falls in the range of 10% − 20%, it is considered acceptable and is possible to use.

• Gage R & R ratings of more than 30% require action in order to improve.

• The effectiveness of any action made to improve the measurement system should be evaluated.

Gage R & R studies can take place under any one of these situations:

Idea 1 − Gage R & R studies may be conducted when an owner wants to continue to manage their business with the same strategy.

Idea 2 − Gage R & R studies are allowed to be done in the middle of a game, ensuring both teams have a fair chance of winning.

Part 3 − Gage R & R studies may be executed when there's a major story that pertains specifically to your team.

• Introducing a new or different measurement system

• Following any improvements

• When a new and different type of measurement system is introduced

• Making changes to a system for the purpose of making it better in response to the results of a previous Gage R & R study

• To ensure accuracy, the annual calibration of your gage needs to happen on a set schedule

Benefits of MSA

This will ensure that you're able to better understand the nature of your measurement system and, ultimately, your business.

More accurate predictions

• By using data, analytics, and data-driven decision−making when deciding how to invest your time and your money, you can make sure that you understand your customers' needs and processes. You'll have confidence in the process that your business is taking down one path.

You can spot small changes because there are more steps involved in the process

• By implementing small changes to your process, you can intervene if necessary and take action to get rid of something that's hurting your business or implement something positive.

• The algorithm looks at the performance of your website and website visitors. Its results are virtually guaranteed as low with a high confidence rate, which means you won't have to worry about inaccurate results.

• Have confidence in your metrics and measurements with MSA. The systems are designed to provide unbiased and scientifically sound data, providing confidence that any scientific or statistical results you get from them are valid.

Conclusion

Data is everywhere. Organizations are already using the latest technology to collect, analyze, and make better data−driven decisions. But sometimes it can be difficult to trust the data you see. Through the MSA approach, you'll be able to accurately determine whether the data that's been captured is real or not.

When it comes to business measurements, you will need to rely on a combination of mechanical and electronic devices in order to measure the accuracy of your processes, as well as rely on people to provide results. The tools that MSA and Gage R&R have given us help you get there.