| Abstract: | The present article gives a new direction for quality modeling and analysis of polymer matrix composite products. Quality of composite products depends upon conformance of requirements of the customer. These requirements are translated into design specifications of all the contributing factors and subsystems up to component level of composite system. Quality of interaction amongst different subsystems, sub‐subsystems, and other factors affects quality of products are also to be considered. Therefore, the present article considers quality of subsystems as well as quality of all interactions together and modeled using graph theory, matrix algebra as quality graph, quality matrix, and quality permanent function of the composite product. These models are useful to design quality of every subsystem and factors in such a manner that can lead to achieve six‐sigma limits (almost zero error) i.e. 3.34 defects per million products produced. A number of analytical tests derived from these models help to carry out optimum selection of qualities of subsystems and interactions for designing competitive composite products. SWOT (strength–weakness–opportunities–threats) analysis integrated with these models becomes very powerful tool to convert an unsuccessful product into successful competitive product. Evaluation, ranking, and comparison procedures can be developed with the help of these proposed models. Coefficients of similarity and dissimilarity are developed for comparison among feasible products. Step‐by‐Step procedure based on systems approach is useful to designer, manufacturer at conceptual stage of design, and during manufacturing stages of composite products. This is basically a virtual prototyping methodology of complete system, leading to high quality competitive composite products. POLYM. COMPOS. 27:329–340, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers |
