Process-targeting model for a product with two dependent quality characteristics using acceptance sampling plans

The purpose of this paper is to develop a process-targeting model for a product with two quality characteristics produced by two processes in series. The first quality characteristic is determined by the setting of the first process, whereas the second quality characteristic depends on the setting of the two processes. The quality of the product is controlled by a single sample inspection plan where inspection is assumed to be error free. The objective of the model is to determine the optimal target for both processes that maximises the profit. A realistic case study is used to demonstrate the utilisation of the model. The results of applying the model indicated that the plant could improve its profit by using optimal process setting and better inspection plans parameters. In addition, sensitivity analysis was performed to study the effect of different parameters on the expected profit and optimal processes means.