Profiling effects in industrial data mining by non-parametric DOE methods: An application on screening checkweighing systems in packaging operations

There is a growing interest in applying robust techniques for profiling complex processes in industry. In this work, we present an approach for analyzing fractional-factorial data by building distribution-free models suitable for dealing with replicated trials in search of non-linear effects. The technique outlined in this article is synthesized by implementing four key elements: (1) the data collection efficiency of non-linear fractional factorial designs, (2) the data compression capabilities of rank-sums for repetitive sampling schemes, (3) the rank-ordering as a means to transform data, and (4) the non-parametric screening for prominent effects where the normality and sparsity assumptions are waived. The technique is tested on four controlling factors for profiling the packaging weighing operations of a pharmaceutical enterprise. The robust data mining of repeated trials based on an L9(34) orthogonal array scheme with embedded uncontrolled noise is discussed extensively. The technique has been subjected to quality control as it is tested with well-defined artificial data. Concluding remarks involve contrasting this new technique with mainstream competing schemes.