Sequential Methods for Monitoring Declining Quality, with Application to the Long-Term Storage of Seeds

1989

S. 13-22

2 Tab., 7 Lit. Ang., En, Zfsg. En

Unselbständiges Werk

200019202

The results in this paper were motivated by the problem of monitoring the quality of seeds being stored for long periods under conditions of low temperature and low humidity. Under the assumption of a simple and smooth form of deterioration, a unified procedure is developed which specifies both when and how the seed lot should be inspected. Limits on the probability of reaching a prespecified poor quality are set. The theory is presented in a general form, in the expectation that it will be useful in other applications. Specific details for implementation in seed banks are given, and computer simulations are used to confirm the validity of approximate theory.