A Method for Robust Process Design Based on Direct Minimization of Expected Loss Applied to Arc Welding

摘要

Robust process design seeks to maximize the process per- formance, taking into account uncertainty in the "noise" factors that cannot be controlled. A methodology for robust process design is presented that is based on direct minimization of the expected loss. The proposed methods are compared with alternatives, including methods based on Taguchi's signal-to- noise ratios. Several formulations of the expected loss are explored, including formulations that account for losses from parts inside the specification limits and that permit the use of deterministic optimization methods. The method is illustrated through its application to the design of robotic gas metal arc welding (GMAW) parameter settings.