A new approach for product quality prediction of complex equipment by grey system theory: A case study of cutting tools for CNC machine tool

To compete in total global market, product quality has attracted the attention of manufacturers as an important mean of product differentiation. As effective product quality prediction method is the key technology for quality control system, a new prediction model and calculation method inspired by the grey system theory is proposed in this paper. Our practical evaluation shows that the quality of complex equipment was improved. Firstly, a new method of grey forecasting model for complex equipment was proposed, and the princi‐ ple and method of grey predictive model with several variables were intro‐ duced. Secondly, this article discussed grey system theory model and showed how to use it in the forecasting process. Then, the quality prediction model and method using grey theory were set up with quality characteristics of cutting tools for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tool. Finally, analysis of the test system showed that the applied predicting model and method were feasible and effective. This new method is also applicable to predict product quality of other complex electromechanical products which are composed a number of systems and subsystems. © 2019 CPE, University of Maribor. All rights reserved.