Educational aspects of uncertainty calculation with software tools. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zangl, Hubert; Hoermaier, Klaus
• Is Part Of: Measurement. Volume 101(2017)
• Page Start: 257
• Page End: 264
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: GUM -- Measurement uncertainty -- Optimization; Weights and measures -- Periodicals; Measurement -- Periodicals; Measurement; Weights and measures; Periodicals; 530.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.measurement.2015.11.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-2241

Abstract

Abstract: Despite its importance, uncertainty of measurements and parameters is frequently neglected by practitioners in the design of systems even in safety critical applications. Thus, problems arising from uncertainty may only be identified late in the design process or even remain. This can lead to additional costs and increased risks. Although there exists numerous tools to support uncertainty calculation, reasons for limited usage in early design phases may be low awareness of the existence of the tools and insufficient training in the practical application. In order to enhance the widespread use of such tool support we suggest a teaching concept for uncertainty calculation in measurement science education that is directly based on the utilization of software tools. Although the developed material is currently based on the GUM (Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement) method we believe that it is also useful with other methods. Additionally, the concept goes beyond the scope of measurement uncertainty quantification demonstrating that it is also useful for system analysis and optimization.