First Edition Dated September, 2000 35
settings are called “process parameters” and “parameter settings,”
respectively.
Tools such as brainstorming, process flow charts, cause and effect diagrams
and statistically designed experiments (DOE) can be used to systematically
identify the processes and process parameters that contribute to variation in
the key characteristic, along with the process parameter settings that help
optimize the process. For further discussion of the tools available to help in
this effort, see D1-9000-1 AQS Tools .
All efforts to identify sources of variation should be recorded.
Controls should be established to ensure that the key process parameters
and their optimal settings change as little as possible.
Ultimately, the goal is to control processes through identifying settings for key
process parameters that minimize variability in the process output. By
controlling these process parameters it may be possible to reduce the
measurement frequency of key characteristics on parts and processes.
3.12
Each key process parameter and its setting and the control methods used
to monitor it should be recorded on the AQS Control Plan, or equivalent, or
the manufacturing plan.
