Accelerated Test Methods for Reliability Prediction

Abstract

Perusal of quality- and reliability-engineering literature indicates some confusion over the meaning of accelerated life testing (ALT), highly accelerated life testing (HALT), highly accelerated stress screening (HASS), and highly accelerated stress auditing (HASA). In addition, there is a significant conflict between testing as part of an iterative process of finding and removing defects and testing as a means of estimating or predicting product reliability. We review the basics of these testing methods and describe how they relate to statistical methods for estimation and prediction of reliability and reliability growth. We also outline potential synergies to help reconcile statistical and engineering approaches to accelerated testing, resulting in better product quality at lower cost.

• Accelerated Degradation Test
• Accelerated Life Test
• Design of Experiments
• Highly Accelerated Testing
• Reliability Analysis
• Reliability Growth

Additional information

Notes on contributors

David H. Collins

Dr. Collins is a Scientist in the Statistical Sciences Group. He is a senior member of ASQ. His email address is [email protected].

Jason K. Freels

Maj. Freels is a Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Systems and Engineering Management. His email address is [email protected].

Aparna V. Huzurbazar

Dr. Huzurbazar is a Scientist in the Statistical Sciences Group working for the Enhanced Surveillance Campaign. Her email address is [email protected].

Richard L. Warr

Dr. Warr is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. His email address is [email protected].

Brian P. Weaver

Dr. Weaver is a Scientist in the Statistical Sciences Group. His email address is [email protected].