Statistical Process Control with Mikon: Modern Approaches for Quality Management

29 November 2023 news image

Statistical Process Control (SPC) has evolved significantly over the past decades, especially with advanced analytics and real-time data processing integration. SPC remains a fundamental approach to monitoring and controlling the quality of products during their production phase. The key to success lies in understanding process variation and making informed decisions based on statistical data.

Today's operators are equipped with sophisticated tools to adjust processes continuously. This helps maintain product quality within customer specifications. It is crucial to understand the natural variation in processes, whether from raw materials or the production process itself.

SPC integrates seamlessly with other quality management systems, reducing process variation more effectively. Customers expect not just quality certifications for shipments but also documentation of consistent quality over time

The SPC control limits, typically set at ±3 standard deviations, are dynamic and adaptive to the varying process conditions. Functions like X-bar and R-bar charts are complemented with analytical tools to provide real-time alarms and insights.

Analyzing Trends and Statistics:

  • Real-Time Data Analysis:

     Operators can immediately see deviations from control and specification limits using X-bar plots and other real-time data visualisation tools. Mikon's advanced alarm systems, complete with timestamps and categories, provide immediate notifications.

  • Process Capability:

     The concept of "capability" (Cp) is complemented with advanced analytics comparing process variation to specification bandwidths. A process is considered capable if its control limits are narrower than the specification limits.

  • Data Distribution Insights:

     The importance of understanding data distribution, including potential skewness, is highlighted with tools like histograms for an accurate view of process performance.

  • Pareto Charts for Problem-Solving:

     Pareto charts are valuable tools for prioritising issues based on frequency, aiding in efficient problem resolution and continuous improvement.

Benefits of Modern SPC with Mikon:

  1. Consistent Quality Control:

     The rigorous application of SPC leads to more consistent and reliable production processes.

  2. Increased Efficiency:

     By reducing variation, processes can operate closer to tolerance limits, enhancing yield and reducing waste.

  3. Strategic Decision-Making:

     Mikon bridges the gap between process control systems and business decision-making, providing comprehensive insights for tactical and strategic decisions.

  4. Quick and Low-Risk Implementation:

     Mikon ensures rapid deployment with predictable costs and minimal risk as a packaged application.

Mikon, as a leader in Process Information Management Systems (PIMS) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), continues to offer cutting-edge solutions for businesses seeking to enhance profitability, quality, and customer satisfaction through effective process control.

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