Configuring the Mean Value Method

You can configure the Mean Value Method technique options.

  1. Double-click the Six Sigma component icon .
    The Six Sigma Component Editor appears.
  2. From the General tab's Analysis Type list select Reliability Technique, and from the Technique list select Mean Value Method.
  3. In the Technique Options area, enter the following:
    OptionDescription
    Taylor Series Order Select First Order or Second Order analysis. First-order analysis requires evaluation of the mean value point and one finite difference step evaluation for each random variable gradient (n+1 total design evaluations, where n is the number of random variables). Second-order analysis requires 2n+1 evaluations (pure second-order terms included only, no mixed second-order terms).
    Finite Difference Step Size This parameter sets the relative finite difference step size used by the reliability method when calculating gradients. The default value is 0.01 (1%).
    Minimum Finite Difference Step This parameter sets the minimum absolute finite difference step size used by the Reliability Technique analysis type when calculating gradients. The default value is 0.001 (0.1%).
  4. Click OK to save your changes and to close the Six Sigma Component Editor.