Combat Ration Advanced Manufacturing Technology Demonstration (CRAMTD). 'Generic Inspection-Statistical Process Control System for a Combat Ration Manufacturing Facility'. Short Term Project (STP) Number 3.

Abstract : Historically, quality inspection systems focused on out of spec material instead of providing control strategies to prevent defects from occurring. New inspection systems include Contractor Inspection Systems and Statistical Process Control. The overall objective of this Short Term Project was the design, development and demonstration of a plan for automated manufacturing process controls and in-process inspection for the manufacture of combat rations. The Statistical Process Control Plan for CRAMTD was approved by DPSC and a final SPC Manual released. Also developed and released were a cookbook for Beef Chunks and Gravy in Tray-Pack and the on-line quality control procedures. Several new concepts were examined as advanced on-line sensors. Recommendations for expanded work were developed and undertaken by the DOD. It was recommended that qualities relevant to food manufacturing control be quantified (Funded as DAAK60-92-C-0087); that key hardware and computer software to implement SPC at the CRAMTD site be acquired (funded as STP #12); and that the ability of a food manufacturing process to produce products be quantified (funded as STP #20).