THE SIGNIFICANT ROLE OF ERRORS IN METROLOGY - JUSTIFICATION BY SYSTEM THEORY

摘要

This contribution states that the important quantity called measurement uncertainty in a measurement result is not the only quantity concerning performance and quality to be discussed. There is still the quantity called measurement error, which plays a hidden, but important role in today's measurement science and technology. This presentation provides a rule-based framework, which shows, how to define errors in Metrology consistently. It will become obvious that errors are not just inherent components of measurement results but that they exhibit a life of their own within processes of all types, always according to the common cause and effect principle. This means that errors, like uncertainties, are describable by mathematical models and treatable by Signal and System Theory as well as by Stochastics and Statistics. Sensible handling of errors leads to deeper insight in all areas of metrological investigation and application.