Increasing the Sensitivity of Multivariate EWMA Control Chart

Abstract

A multivariate exponentially weighted moving average (MEWMA) control chart is used for fast detection of small shifts in multivariate statistical quality control. However, for ease of computation, the MEWMA control chart statistics are computed based on the asymptotic form of their covariance matrix in most cases. Another reason that justifies the design of the MEWMA control chart using the asymptotic covariance matrix is that the chart will be insensitive at start-up since processes are more likely to be away from the target value when the control scheme is initiated due to start-up problems. However, if initial out-of-control conditions are deemed important for quick detection, then the MEWMA statistics should be computed based on the exact covariance matrix, as it leads to a natural fast initial response for the MEWMA chart. It will also be shown in this paper the importance of computing the MEWMA statistics based on the exact form of their covariance matrix to further enhance the MEWMA control chart's sensitivity for detecting small shifts. The MEWMA statistics based on the asymptotic and the exact form of their covariance matrix will be referred to as the asymptotic and the exact MEWMA statistics, respectively. Plots and factors that simplify the design of the exact MEWMA control chart are also given.