Complex control chart interpretation

Abstract

Identification of the assignable causes of process variability and the restriction and elimination of their influence are the main goals of statistical process control (SPC). Identification of these causes is associated with so called tests for special causes or runs tests. From the time of the formulation of the first set of such rules (Western Electric rules) several different sets have been created (Nelson rules, Boeing AQS rules, Trietsch rules). This paper deals with the comparison analysis of these sets of rules, their basic statistical properties and the mistakes accompanying their application using SW support. At the end of this paper some recommendations for the correct application of the runs tests are formulated. © 2013 Noskievičová et al.