ABSTRACT

Utilization of orthogonal arrays Chapter 2 introduces the one-factor-at-a-time method; however, this method cannot guarantee that the conclusions obtained from upstream using this method can be reproduced downstream in production and in the marketplace. Moreover, in full factorial experimental design, when the number of factors increases, the number of experiments also increases. Additionally, in fractional factorial design, as the number of factors increases, it increases the complexity of the experimental setting. By contrast, the use of orthogonal arrays allows the user to obtain a more reliable factor effect estimation with less experimental data. Taguchi suggested using orthogonal arrays and linear graphs to simplify the experiment; his suggestions have already received recognition. To summarize, the employment of orthogonal arrays to conduct experiments is an essential skill of robust design. Based on the considerations of product robustness and experimental cost, the orthogonal array has become a critical tool for engineers in evaluating product and process design.