Evaluating process capability during the design of manufacturing systems

This paper introduces the concept of a process capability matrix - an order ed set of dimensionless parameters that capture information on a manufactur ing system's response to disturbances. The matrix is similar to the process capability indices C-p and C-pk, but is extended to multiple acceptence cr iteria and multiple causes of variation. Equations are presented that use t he matrix to estimate yield in manufacture of products with multiple accept ance criteria. The surface mount of large body electronic packages serves a s an example of the effectiveness of the process capability matrix as a too l for design decision making. [S1087-1357(00)0160-4].