Search

Dimensional and geometric tolerances affect both the cost and the functionality of a given product. Finding the acceptable trade‐off between the two is among the common engineering tasks. Thus, many tolerance analysis methods are developed to help engineers and assist in the decision‐making process. In this article, the authors have assessed four tolerance analysis methods by applying them to the open‐loop assembly. The results obtained by the tolerance chart (worst‐case) method, Monte‐Carlo simulation, vector‐loop analysis, and the Unified Jacobian‐torsor model were analysed and compared. Additionally, the overview and application guidelines are included for each of the methods, aiming to help both researchers and practitioners. The results have confirmed that there are significant variations in the outputs across the observed methods, implying the need for informed method selection.

A simulation of tolerance analysis in assemblies using Sigmund Computer Aided Tolerancing (CAT) software is validated through the example of an automobile locking device. Simulation with CAT, applying criteria on both the statistical distribution and the rivet pin position in the hole used in the example, will allow us to predict the functional dimension tolerances in these assemblies with greater accuracy in the preliminary design phase. These tolerances will subsequently define the manufacturing specifications. The statistical distribution, in the example, that best fits the overall set of tolerances, is the triangular distribution followed by the normal distribution; the position of the rivet pin axis in its hole is off-centre by 53 % with regard to its maximum value.

A simulation of tolerance analysis in assemblies using Sigmund Computer Aided Tolerancing (CAT) software is validated through the example of an automobile locking device. Simulation with CAT, applying criteria on both the statistical distribution and the rivet pin position in the hole used in the example, will allow us to predict the functional dimension tolerances in these assemblies with greater accuracy in the preliminary design phase. These tolerances will subsequently define the manufacturing specifications. The statistical distribution, in the example, that best fits the overall set of tolerances, is the triangular distribution followed by the normal distribution; the position of the rivet pin axis in its hole is off-centre by 53 % with regard to its maximum value.