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– the analysis of the non-conformities which could be encountered.
This process makes it possible to identify and quantify the means
(personnel and material) to be implemented to take the intended
measurements. It is during these phases that the “tools of quality” will
be used. Let us point out that the analysis of the value (fundamental at
the outset) is among the most useful tools. In order to clearly define
the objective, we strongly recommend to use “brainstorming”,
cause/effect diagrams, Pareto, etc., which make analysis and collective
participation easier.
So as to guarantee the quality of its measurements (i.e. a process
of management by quality), the firm sets up a real management of the
means of measurement. For this purpose, the metrological function
conducts the management of these means according to needs that are
clearly defined and regularly updated. This involves examining a large
number of actions in order to start up and maintain the supply of
measuring instruments necessary to meet the firm’s needs.
The first thing to do regarding the analysis of the supply of
material is to work out:
– the list of physical quantities (e.g. temperature, length, electric
resistance, etc.);
– the ranges which need to be covered for each physical quantity
(e.g. length from 0.1 mm to 1,000 mm);
– the permissible uncertainty for each quantity and each range
(the uncertainty in the 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm range will be different from
the one which is expected between 100 mm and 1,000 mm).
Then, for each separate case, it will be necessary to consider and
define:
– the analysis of the needs and the choice of the means of
measurement;
– the acquisition, the reception and the implementation of these
means;
– the traceability of the material of measurement (in the case
where materials of measurement are assigned);
– the traceability of the measurements (which material do they
come from?);
– the calibration or the verification of the means and the decisions
they entail;
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