Track 2 Session 12
1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Thursday June 19, 2008

Power of the P-Diagram in Robust Reliability Planning and Execution

The parameter diagram (p-diagram) schematically depicts the way a product delivers its intended function by looking at the relationship between signal factors (input), control factors (design parameters), noise factors and the measured response and error states (or the failure modes). At EATON Corporation, the p-diagram is effectively implemented, in conjunction with other Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) and Design for Reliability (DFR) tools, early in the product development cycle to develop more robust product designs. The p-diagram establishes the base for an efficient and robust DFR plan and execution, FMEA development, DOE/RSM planning and Parameter/Tolerance design. The p-diagram also helps as an input to preparation of a Robust Design Verification Plan.

In this presentation, the authors examine the value that the p-diagram brings to robust reliability planning and execution and highlights the potential benefits with some examples.