Teaching Zero Quality Control Concepts In Mechanical Engineering Technology

Abstract

Zero Quality Control (ZQC) is a quality control approach for achieving zero defects. ZQC is based on the principle that defects are prevented by controlling the performance of a process so that it cannot produce defects, even when a mistake is made by the machine or a human operator. This is done by combining four basic elements 1 : i)source inspection ii) 100 percent inspection iii) immediate feedback and iv) use of poka-yoke (mistake-proofing) devices. ZQC is widely gaining popularity in the industry. It is well established in Japan and its practice is catching on in USA. At the department of mechanical and manufacturing engineering technology at the University of North Texas, we strongly feel that this important tool needs to be addressed in our Quality Control class. A plan has been made to cater to this desire, and strategies have been made to incorporate it in other classes as well.