Multivariate Process Capability Index Based on Data Depth Concept

The purpose of this paper is to provide a multivariate process capability index, which could be used regardless on data distribution and also on data correlation. Such an index could be defined because of application of non‐parametric methodology that utilizes a data depth concept. Based on this concept, a two‐phase methodology was developed. In the first phase the modified tolerance region is estimated, while in the second one, a current process is assessed using the proposed three‐component index. Estimation of a modified tolerance region on the basis on historical data allows applying the methodology not only for bilateral quality characteristics but also for unilateral ones, where often in practice, the modified tolerance region could be defined as a closed region. The performance of the proposed index was evaluated using bilateral and unilateral examples. The obtained results showed that the proposed index performs satisfactorily for all the considered cases. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.