Digital representation of measurement uncertainty

Abstract

Successful digital transformation of measurement quality infrastructures must capture and share information about the metrological traceability of measurement results. So appropriate representations of measurement uncertainty, which is the cornerstone of traceability, are critical. Conventional uncertainty reporting is not ideal, which raises questions about what to do in new digital systems. This paper aims to elucidate the reporting requirements for uncertainty. We consider the very clear differences between standard and expanded uncertainties in terms of users’ needs for information. We conclude that standard uncertainties are more fundamental than expanded uncertainties and must be reported to ensure accurate transfer of information about traceability. We also suggest that information about the components of standard uncertainty be propagated along a measurement chain. These findings concur with recommendations in the Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement.

Keywords

• Measurement uncertainty
• Metrological traceability
• Standard uncertainty
• Expanded uncertainty
• Digital transformation