An integrated quick-switch sampling system based on a process capability index for constructing a solid supplier-buyer relationship

The quick-switch sampling (QSS) systems based on process capability index (PCI) have been proved to be useful for inspecting processes streaming at a low level of defects because of their small sizes required and dynamic responsiveness to problems. However, most of the recent studies have aimed at deriving the mathematical model and comparing performances for the acceptance criteria-type QSS system, and only a few of them have an interest in the development of the required sample-size-type QSS system; their studies have limited simultaneous discussions on both systems’ advantages and disadvantages, not to mention the lack of investigations on the impact of the joint application of the two QSS system types. In this paper, an integrated QSS (IQSS) system based on the most popular PCI was proposed; the system can accommodate two existing types of PCI-based QSS systems and further boost the sampling performance and discriminatory power. Moreover, by operating suitable types of PCI-based QSS systems in different stages of the supplier-buyer partnership, a progressive lot-disposition strategy was introduced to construct a solid supplier-buyer relationship. We also developed a web-based tool to accurately and efficiently execute all types’ PCI-based QSS systems. Finally, the industrial applicability was demonstrated in a case study.