// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
MSA
An abbreviation for Measurement System Analysis, which is a process to check if measurement tools and methods are accurate.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
MSA, or Measurement System Analysis, is a statistical tool used to evaluate the performance and suitability of a measurement system, quantifying its inherent variation and assessing its impact on product quality and process control 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
- Measurement System Analysis
- Gage R&R
- Measurement validation
USAGE NOTE
Performing an MSA helps ensure that measurement errors don't lead to incorrect quality conclusions.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to MSA.
Developer of Minitab Statistical Software, a leading package used by quality improvement professionals for performing complex data analysis, including a comprehensive suite of Measurement System Analysis (MSA) tools like Gage R&R studies.
A global leader in sensor, software, and autonomous solutions. Hexagon develops hardware like CMMs and laser scanners, alongside software platforms such as PC-DMIS and Q-DAS, which integrate advanced MSA capabilities to validate measurement processes in smart factories.
Develops and manufactures advanced metrology systems, including coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and optical sensors. Their software suite, like ZEISS CALYPSO, incorporates powerful MSA tools to ensure the reliability and accuracy of measurement data.
Provides real-time Statistical Process Control (SPC) and quality intelligence software. Their platform automates data collection from the shop floor and includes robust MSA modules to help manufacturers analyze and ensure the integrity of their measurement systems.
A leading supplier of sensors, vision systems, and high-precision measurement instruments for industrial automation. Keyence's systems include integrated software that performs rapid, automated measurements and provides tools for analyzing system variability and accuracy, directly supporting MSA.
A major manufacturer of precision measuring instruments and metrological equipment. Mitutoyo's MeasurLink software provides real-time data collection and SPC analysis, featuring integrated tools for conducting MSA studies like Gage R&R.
Offers a cloud-based smart manufacturing platform with an integrated Quality Management System (QMS). The platform provides tools for conducting and managing MSA studies, linking quality data directly to the production process for real-time control.
A division of SAS that produces interactive statistical discovery software. JMP provides extensive capabilities for quality and process engineering, including a dedicated Measurement Systems Analysis platform for conducting Gage R&R studies and attribute agreement analysis.