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Interpreting Results and Evaluating FindingsControl ChartsStatistical Process ControlQuality ControlGCSE

AQA GCSE · Question 12.2 · Interpreting Results and Evaluating Findings

Machine B 23.5 24.0 24.5 25.0 25.5 26.0 26.5 Sample mean mass (grams) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Sample number Action lines Warning lines Target mass Warning lines Action lines

The control chart for 10 consecutive large samples for Machine B is shown below. What should Luka do, if anything, with Machine B, based on this chart?

How to approach this question

1. **Recall Control Chart Rules**: Pay attention to rules about points near the limits. A key rule is that if two consecutive points fall between a warning limit and an action limit, the process should be investigated. 2. **Examine the Chart for Machine B**: * Are any points outside the action lines? No. * Look at the last two points, for sample 9 and sample 10. * Sample 9 has a mean of approx. 25.7g. This is between the upper warning line (25.5g) and the upper action line (26.0g). * Sample 10 has a mean of approx. 25.8g. This is also between the upper warning and action lines. 3. **Apply the Rule**: We have two consecutive points in the warning zone. This is a signal that the process is likely out of control. 4. **Formulate a Conclusion**: Action is required. Luka should stop the machine and investigate the cause of the increased mean mass.

Full Answer

When interpreting a control chart, we look for signals that the process may be going out of control. One of the standard rules is that if **two consecutive points lie between a warning limit and the corresponding action limit**, action should be taken. On the chart for Machine B: - The sample mean for sample 9 is approximately 25.7g. This is above the upper warning limit of 25.5g but below the upper action limit of 26.0g. - The sample mean for sample 10 is approximately 25.8g. This is also between the upper warning and action limits. Since two points in a row have fallen in this zone, it is a strong indicator that there is a problem and the process mean may have shifted upwards. Therefore, Luka should stop Machine B and investigate the cause.

Common mistakes

✗ Stating no action is needed because no points are outside the action limits. This ignores the rule about consecutive points in the warning zone. ✗ Only mentioning one point is in the warning zone, which on its own does not require action.

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