Control charts are very useful in identifying process problems. With t
he implementation of automated data collection methods and computerize
d plotting on control charts, a need exists for identification procedu
res that can alert the operator to unnatural patterns and special caus
es. This proposed pattern-recognition algorithm is based on traditiona
l recognition methods modified for recognizing nonrandom patterns on a
n (x) over bar control chart. Extensive simulations tested the capabil
ity of the algorithm to detect cycles and systematic patterns on an (x
) over bar control chart. Average run lengths are computed and compare
d with other relevant studies. Extensions and enhancements are also ad
dressed.