Quality of Measurements

This monograph and translation from the Russian describes in detail and comments on the fundamentals of metrology. The basic concepts of metrology, the principles of the International System of Units SI, the theory of measurement uncertainty, the new methodology of estimation of measurement accuracy on the basis of the uncertainty concept, as well as the methods for processing measurement results and estimating their uncertainty are discussed from the modern position. It is shown that the uncertainty concept is compatible with the classical theory of accuracy. The theory of random uncertainties is supplemented with their most general description on the basis of generalized normal distribution; the instrumental systematic errors are presented in connection with the methodology of normalization of the metrological characteristics of measuring instruments. §The information about modern systems of traceability is given. All discussed theoretical principles and calculation methods are illustrated with examples.This book provides a detailed discussion and commentary on the fundamentals of metrology. The fundamentals of metrology, the principles underlying the design of the SI International System of units, the theory of measurement error, a new methodology for estimation of measurement accuracy based on uncertainty, and methods for reduction of measured results and estimation of measurement uncertainty are all discussed from a modern point of view. The concept of uncertainty is shown to be consistent with the classical theory of accuracy. The theory of random measurement errors is supplemented by a very general description based on the generalized normal distribution; systematic instrumental error is described in terms of a methodology for normalizing the metrological characteristics of measuring instruments.§Information regarding modern systems for measurement traceability is also provided. The following basic elements of centralized systems for reproduction of units and dissemination of units are also discussed: References, hierarchical chains, verification and calibration intervals, and organizational structures. The metrological and legal differences between the two forms for dissemination of units---calibration and verification---are also discussed, in addition to the mechanisms by which the uncertainty in the size of a unit increases in these operations. The methods presented for determination of verification and calibration intervals are grounded in measuring instrument reliability theory, and are therefore discussed simultaneously with a presentation of the basic provisions of this theory.§A new international system for assuring uniformity of measurements based on agreements between national metrological institutes is discussed, in addition to the role and procedure for performance of key comparisons between national standards. The conclusion describes a new methodology for assurance of measurement accuracy (based on the provisions contained in the ISO 5725-series standards) that is now becoming more and more common around the world. All of the theoretical statements and calculation methods are illustrated using examples.§This book will be of interest to personnel working in government metrological services (or in the metrological services of legal entities), and to specialists who use measuring instruments or make use of measured data in their daily activities It will be useful to students at technical universities when studying the academic disciplines of Metrology, Standardization, and Certification; Metrology and Measurement Assurance; and Metrology and Measuring Instruments.