Search

This paper proposes the analysis of the tolerances (values, types, datum) and their effects on a mechanical assembly, as a high-performance car engine, by means of a Computer-Aided Tolerancing software. The 3D tolerance stack-ups are investigated to assess the fulfillment of the functional requirements as well as the performance specifications of the assembly. Moreover, after identifying the tolerances that mainly affect the product variability, we finally propose some corrective actions on the tolerances and assess their functional allocation, tightening or relaxing their values, ensuring assemblability and cost reduction.

The Dimensional Management (DM) is well known as the reference methodology for the management of dimensional and geometric variations of industrial products. Over the years, it has assumed a central role, thanks to the development of a specific design approach, known as Design for Tolerancing (DfT). Based on the Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) symbolic language, DfT allows to check and verify functional and qualitative requirements from the early design phases. Although its strength and potential to improve design optimization, DfT industrial application is still limited. Consolidated design practices, complexity of tolerance specification process, lack of support from Computer-Aided tools still limit the tolerance specification to final validation of product design. The paper aims to define a tolerance specification model for systematic application of GD&T specification. The model formalizes the identification and translation of product requirements on the components geometry, through the definition of the main step of tolerance design. Based on the integration between the GD&T-based approach and parametric three-dimensional CAD modelling, the model has been applied to validate the GD&T and the tolerance specification of two mechanical assemblies with common features. The methodology proves its general effectiveness to support engineers in tolerance design and selection of the most suitable GD&T schemes.

Additive Manufacturing is a widespread technology that may enhance product customization based on specific users’ needs, as in the case of assistive devices. Many chronic physical progressively disabling diseases, but also ageing, may cause severe limitations in daily life, which can be overcome by highly customized aids. Literature shows that the active involvement of the patient in the development of assistive devices through co-design allows for their greater therapeutic effectiveness and acceptance. Therefore, this paper proposes a methodological approach for the development of inclusive assistive devices to support daily activities in persons with disabling diseases of the upper-limb. The approach integrates co-design, standardized tools, and low- and high-tech prototyping techniques and tools, which lead to significant feedbacks from patients. The patients are encouraged to interact with conceptual prototypes through direct 3D CAD modelling and touch screen devices. Assessment tests highlight the suitability of the method to achieve the expected goals.

Sheet metal parts are widely used in automotive, aerospace, ship and consumer goods industries. The final dimensions of a sheet metal assembly result from the parts deformation, which in turn is affected by many variations in material, thickness and single parts dimensions. The tolerance analysis on sheet metal assemblies improve the knowledge about the process. Advanced simulations enable the optimization of product features, GD&T scheme and assembly process. Moreover, Variational Models of both the product and the assembly system enable to assess the sources of 3D error propagation from the different contributors. However, the simulation results are very affected by the modelling approach of critical components, such as the Fixture Systems. The present paper firstly introduces a strategy to model the Fixture System and the assembly process for compliant parts. Then, a robust analysis of the variations in the model with respect to the modelling factors is performed by a Design of Experiments. A case study on an automotive fender is discussed. The results demonstrate that the modelling strategy of the clamping operation have the main effects, while the modelling of locators scheme, spot joints and FEM meshing are less important.