A Better Least-Squares Method when Both Variables Have Uncertainties
Abstract
The generalized least-squares problem, in which an observation vector satisfies a set of equations that may be nonlinear and implicit, and all components may be subject to errors, can be solved as a constrained minimization problem. When the analysis is specialized to the important case of one dimensional curve fitting to measurements where both variables contain errors, it becomes similar to the effective variance method. A standard least-squares computer program can be used to apply the new method; the results are superior to these of the effective variance technique. A simple geometrical construction illustrates the principles of the new method.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA204955
Entities
People
- Matthew Lybanon
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory