Critical Evaluation into the practical utility of the Design of Experiments

Abstract

The research aims to emphasise the relevance of the Design of Experiments (DOE) technique as a reliable method for ensuring efficient use of statistical methods in routine industrial processes. A case study approach with a deductive strategy was used to assess the effectiveness of different DOE methods to achieve the desired objectives. Screening, mid-resolution and high-resolution DOE methods helped identify, characterise, and optimise an experimental variable against the desired output response. A general framework for effective DOE is provided as part of DOE planning, including defining DOE objectives, selection criteria, noise reduction, and application across industries. Overall, various DOE models proved successful in identifying a complicated relationship between experimental variables and output response. However, when ideal DOE models may not be feasible, reducing test run by choosing lower resolution DOE or fewer replicates can still provide important insights into the experimental variables’ impact on output responses.

Keywords

• six-sigma
• design of experiments
• screening
• taguchi screening
• full factorial