// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Measurement System Analysis
A method used to evaluate if a measurement system is accurate and reliable enough for its intended purpose.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Measurement System Analysis (MSA) is a statistical methodology employed to quantify the variation introduced by a measurement system itself, assessing its accuracy, precision (repeatability and reproducibility), stability, and linearity to ensure data integrity for process control and quality decisions.
BACKGROUND
A measurement system analysis (MSA) is a thorough assessment of a measurement process, and typically includes a specially designed experiment that seeks to identify the components of variation in that measurement process. Just as processes that produce a product may vary, the process of obtaining measurements and data may also have variation and produce incorrect results. A measurement systems analysis evaluates the test method, measuring instruments, and the entire process of obtaining measurements to ensure the integrity of data used for analysis and to understand the implications of measurement error for decisions made about a product or process. Proper measurement system analysis is critical for producing a consistent product in manufacturing and when left uncontrolled can result in a drift of key parameters and unusable final products. MSA is also an important element of Six Sigma methodology and of other quality management systems. MSA analyzes the collection of equipment, operations, procedures, software and personnel that affects the assignment of a number to a measurement characteristic.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Gage R&R
- Measurement validation
- Measurement capability
- Measurement study
USAGE NOTE
MSA is critical before collecting data for statistical process control to ensure data validity.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Measurement System Analysis.
Minitab develops statistical software widely used for quality improvement and statistical education, including comprehensive tools for Measurement System Analysis (MSA), Gage R&R, and statistical process control (SPC).
InfinityQS provides enterprise quality management software (EQMS) that empowers manufacturers to improve product quality, decrease costs, and make data-driven decisions. Their solutions include robust SPC and real-time data collection capabilities essential for performing and utilizing MSA.
Hexagon is a leading provider of metrology and manufacturing solutions. They develop a wide range of precision measurement technologies, including CMMs, laser trackers, and optical scanners, along with integrated software that supports quality control, data analysis, and the application of MSA principles.
Renishaw is a global engineering and scientific technology company specializing in metrology and healthcare. They develop advanced measurement systems, including machine tool probes, styli, and additive manufacturing systems, often accompanied by software solutions that facilitate quality analysis and performance validation, crucial for MSA.
PQ Systems offers quality control software solutions for manufacturing and other industries. Their products, such as GAGEpack for calibration management and CHARTrunner for statistical process control, directly support the data collection and analysis required for effective Measurement System Analysis.
Stat-Ease (now part of Statgraphics) develops Design-Expert software, which provides powerful tools for Design of Experiments (DOE). Understanding variation and optimizing processes, which includes the measurement system itself, is a core application supported by their software.
KnowWare International develops QI Macros, an easy-to-use Excel add-in for statistical process control (SPC) and lean Six Sigma. The software includes dedicated tools for Gage R&R and other Measurement System Analysis functions, making statistical quality control accessible.