ABSTRACT

Measurement systems analysis (MSA) is a specifically designed experiment to determine the variation within a measurement system. Just as a product or process has variation, so does a measurement instrument. MSA provides a systematic approach to evaluating the entire measurement process to ensure the integrity of the data gathered for analysis. In addition, it enables the team then to understand the implications of the error in the measurement system in decision-making regarding the product, process, or service. MSA is performed for the following reasons:

• To ensure the reliability of collected data • To evaluate the measurement system and to improve the quality of

measured data • To quantify the portion of error in process variation • To prevent incorrect judgment on defective products from being

released to the customer due to measurement error

Gauge repeatability and reproducibility (R&R) is the most popular MSA tool.