Abstract
Taguchi Quality Engineering Methods were used to reduce high window closing/opening efforts which can lead to customer dissatisfaction. This case study includes applications of Parameter Design, Tolerancing, On-Line Quality Control Methods and Quality Loss Function analysis. Parameter Design - used to determine the nominal clearances at the A-Pillar and B-Pillar for optimum window effort and windnoise performance. Tolerancing - used to determine the tolerance limit of the A-Pillar and B-Pillarclearances (low-rank characteristics) using the quality loss function and the Window Effort (high-rank characteristics) tolerance. On-line Quality Control - keeping the Window Effort close to the target values requires continuous monitoring and adjustments during the window assembly process. Taguchi On-line Quality Control Methodswere applied to optimize the control limits and inspection intervals for the A-Pillar and B-Pillar. The optimal adjustment cost, quality loss, and cost of time lag. Quality Loss Function - used throughout the study to quantify quality loss and to optimize parameters such as control factor levels, tolerance limits, inspection intervals and control limits.
