Tolerance analysis of linear dimensional chains.

The program is designed for tolerance analysis of linear (1D) dimensional chains. The program solves the following problems:

  1. Tolerance analysis, synthesis and optimization of a dimensional chain using the arithmetic "WC" (Worst case) method, possibly the statistical "RSS" (Root Sum Squares) method. 
  2. Analysis of a dimensional chain deformed as a result of temperature change. 
  3. Extended statistic analysis of dimensional chain using the "6 Sigma" method. 
  4. Tolerance analysis of a dimensional chain during selective assembly including optimization of the number of assembled products.

All solved tasks enable work with standardized tolerance values, both in designing and in optimization of the dimensional chain.

Data, methods, algorithms and information from professional literature and ANSI, ISO, DIN and other standards are used in calculation. List of standards: ANSI B4.1, ISO 286, ISO 2768, DIN 7186


User interface

 User interface.

 

Download

 Download.

 

Purchase, Price list

 Purchase, Price list.
 

Control, structure and syntax of calculations.

Information on the syntax and control of the calculation can be found in the document "Control, structure and syntax of calculations".

Information on the project.

Information on the purpose, use and control of the paragraph "Information on the project" can be found in the document  "Information on the project".

Theory - Fundamentals.

A linear dimensional chain is a set of independent parallel dimensions which continue each other to create a geometrically closed circuit. They can be dimensions specifying the mutual position of components on one part (Fig. A) or dimensions of several parts in an assembly unit (Fig. B).

A dimensional chain consists of separate partial components (input dimensions) and ends with a closed component (resulting dimension). Partial components (A, B, C,…) are dimensions either directly dimensioned in the drawing or following from previous manufacturing, possibly assembly operations. The closed component (Z) in the given chain represents the resulting manufacturing or assembly dimension, which is the result of combining partial dimensions as a scaled manufacturing dimension, possibly assembly clearance or interference of a component. The size, tolerance and limit deviations of the resulting dimension depend directly on the size and tolerance of partial dimensions. Depending on how the change of partial component affects the change of the closed component, two types of components are distinguished in dimensional chains:
- increasing components - partial components, the increase of which results in an increase of the closed component
- decreasing components - partial components, the increase of which results in a decrease of the closed component 

When solving tolerance relations in dimensional chains, two types of problems occur:

  1. Tolerance analysis - direct tasks, control
    Using known limit deviations of all partial components, the limit deviation of the closed component is set. Direct tasks are unambiguous in calculation and are usually used for checking components and assembly units manufactured according to the specific drawing. 
  2. Tolerance synthesis - indirect tasks, designing
    Using known limit deviations of a closed component given by the functional demands, limit deviations of partial components are designed. Indirect tasks are solved when designing functional groups and assemblies.

The choice of method of calculation of tolerances and limit deviations of dimensional chain components affects manufacturing accuracy and assembly interchangeability of components. Therefore, economy of production and operation depends on it. To solve tolerance relations in dimensional chains, engineering practice uses three basic methods:

Arithmetic method of calculation - WC method (Worst Case).

The most often used method, sometimes called the maximum - minimum calculation method. It works on the condition of keeping the required limit deviation of a closed component for any combination of real dimensions of partial components, i.e. also upper and lower limit sizes. This method guarantees full assembly and working interchangeability of components. However, due to the demand of higher accuracy of the closed component, it results in too limited tolerances of partial components and therefore high manufacturing costs. The WC method is therefore suitable for calculating dimensional circuits with a small number of components or in case that broader tolerance of the resulting dimension is acceptable. It is most often used in piece or small-lot production.

The WC method calculates the tolerance of the resulting dimension as an arithmetic sum of tolerances of all partial dimensions. The dimensions of a closed component are therefore determined by its mean value:

and total tolerance:

Boundary dimensions of the closed component are set by the relations:

with:
m
i - mean dimension of ith component
Ti - tolerance of ith component
n  - total of partial components
i=1,..,k - number of increasing components
i=k,..,n - number of decreasing components

Statistical methods of calculation - RSS, 6 Sigma methods.

Statistical methods of calculation of dimensional chains are based on the calculus of probability. These methods assume that in a random selection of components during assembly, the limit values of deviations only rarely occur with more partial components simultaneously, as is the case of combined probability. The probability of the occurrence of limit value of deviations in manufacturing individual dimensions on one component will be similarly small. With a certain, pre-selected risk of rejection of some components, the tolerances of partial components in the dimensional chain can be increased.

The statistical method guarantees only partial assembly interchangeability, with a low percentage of unfavourable cases (spoilage). With respect to larger tolerances of partial dimensions, however, it results in a decrease in manufacturing costs. It is mainly used in mass and large-lot production, where savings in manufacturing costs outbalance increased assembly and operating costs resulting from incomplete assembly interchangeability of components.

The dimensions of a closed component show certain variation from the mean of the tolerance field. The frequency of occurrence of individual dimensions follows the rules of mathematical statistics and in the outright majority of cases it matches normal distribution. This distribution is described by the Gauss curve of probability density, for which the frequency of occurrence of "x" dimension follows the relation:

The shape of the Gauss curve is characterized by two parameters. Mean value m determines the position of maximum frequency of the resulting dimension occurrence; standard deviation s defines the curve "slenderness". 

Gauss curve for various values of standard deviation s

The area defined by the intersection of the Gauss curve with the required closed component limit dimensions represents the expected yield of the process. Parts of the curve lying outside the tolerance interval define the area which represents spoilage in the process.

Yield of process for centric and non-centric design

In general engineering, the manufacturing process is usually considered satisfactorily efficient on the level 3s. That means that the upper limit UL and lower limit LL of the resulting dimension is at 3s distance from the mean value m. The area of the Gauss curve between both limits then equals 99.73% of the total area and represents the portion of products meeting the specification requirements. The area outside these limits equals 0.27% and represents off-size products.

Expected yield of a process for various widths of the closed component tolerance field
Limit sizes Process yield [%] Number of rejects per million components produced
m ± 1s 68.2 317310
m ± 2s 95.4 45500
m ± 3s 99.73 2700
m ± 3.5s 99.95 465
m ± 4s 99.994 63
m ± 4.5s 99.9993 6.8
m ± 5s 99.99994 0.6
m ± 6s 99.9999998 0.002

 

RSS (Root Sum Squares) method

This method of calculation is a traditional as well as the most widespread method of statistical calculation of dimensional chains. The RSS method is based on the assumption that individual partial components are manufactured with the level of process capability (quality) 3s.

Their limit values therefore match tolerance interval m ± 3s, and standard deviation is set by the relation:

 

The dimensions of a closed component are determined by its mean value:

and standard deviation:

with:
si - standard deviation of ith component
m
i - mean dimension of ith component
Ti - tolerance of ith component
n  - total of partial components
i=1,..,k - number of increasing components
i=k,..,n - number of decreasing components

"6 Sigma" method

In general engineering, the manufacturing process was traditionally considered satisfactorily efficient on level 3s. That means an estimated 2700 rejected products per one million produced. Although such portion of off-size products seems very good at first sight, it is considered ever more and more insufficient in some spheres of production. Besides, it is almost impossible to keep the mean value of the process characteristic curve exactly in the middle of the tolerance field in the long term. In case of large production volumes, the mean value of the process characteristic shifts in the course of time due to the influence of various factors (erroneous set-up, wear of tools and jigs, temperature changes, etc.). A shift of 1.5s from the ideal value is typical. In case of traditionally approached processes with 3s level of capability, that represents an increase of the off-size product ratio to approx. 67000 per one million produced.

It is obvious that a manufacturing process with such level of spoilage is unacceptable. Therefore, recently the modern "6 Sigma" method has been used more and more frequently to assess the quality of manufacturing processes. The concept of the method is to achieve such target that the mean value of the process characteristic is at 6s distance from both tolerance limits. In such efficient manufacturing process, the ratio of 3.4 off-size products per one million produced is achieved even after the expected mean shift of 1.5s.

The "6 Sigma" method is relatively new; it became popular rather broadly only in the 1980s and 1990s. It was put into practice for the first time by Motorola and it is considerably used mainly in the USA. Its utilization is suitable in case a higher quality of manufacturing processes is required and for large production volumes where the mean value of the process characteristic may be shifted.

The "6 Sigma" method is a modification of the standard "RSS" method and introduces two new parameters, (Cp, Cpk), called process capability indexes into the problems of dimensional chain solutions. These capability indexes are used to assess the manufacturing process quality.

The Cp capability index assesses the quality of the manufacturing process using the comparison of specified tolerance limits with the traditional capability level 3s.

For the process with tolerance interval m ± 3s, Cp will equal 1. With high quality processes where tolerance limits are at ±6s distance from the mean value, the capability index will be Cp=2.

The Cpk index is a modified Cp index for mean shift of the process characteristic.

where the mean shift factor k ranges between <0..1> and determines the relative value of the mean shift related to half of the tolerance interval. In case of a typical mean shift of process characteristic of 1.5s, the mean shift factor for the process with "6 Sigma" quality will be k=0.25 and the capability index Cpk=1.5.

The effective standard deviation of the process may then be estimated as:

After the application of capability indexes on all partial components of the dimensional chain, the dimensions of the closed component can be described similarly to the "RSS" method by its mean value m and standard deviation:

with:
s
ei - effective standard deviation of ith component

In case of the "6 Sigma" method, a manufacturing process with resulting 4.5s capability ratio is typically considered satisfactory.

Group interchangeability method (selective assembly).

The selective assembly method is used in mass and large-lot production of precise products which do not require working interchangeability of components inside the product. The assembly of the product is preceded by sorting of individual components into tolerance subsets. Manufacturing dimensions of components may be prescribed with a larger tolerance. The narrowed resulting dimensional tolerance is achieved by the functional matching (combination) of sorted subsets. To determine the resulting dimension of the closed component, the above-specified "WC" method is used, except that the calculation does not include all manufacturing tolerances of partial components, but only narrowed tolerances applicable for the selected tolerance subset.

The selective assembly method is a very effective method of solving dimensional chains, enabling a substantial increase in manufacturing tolerances of partial components and thus a significant reduction in manufacturing costs. On the other hand, application of this method places increased demands on product assembly. Operating costs will also increase, as it is usually necessary to replace the whole assembled component in case of wear or damage of a partial component.

If the selective assembly method is to be effective, it is necessary to solve the problem of optimum selection (combination) of components. The components have to be matched so that it is possible to assemble the maximum possible number of products meeting the functional requirements with the given number of manufactured components. This task can be divided into two parts:

1. Designing part of the task

Finding all combinations of individual subsets of partial components for which the functional requirements are met by the closed component.

This task has to be solved before the beginning of production, in the process of designing the dimensional chain. The number of suitable combinations will depend on the overall manufacturing tolerance of partial components, as well as the selected number of tolerance subintervals. The dimensional chain should be designed so that the number of acceptable assembly combinations ranges within reasonable limits.

For small numbers of suitable combinations, it will probably not be possible to use all manufactured parts during the assembly. That is why the assembly yield of the process decreases and the production becomes more expensive. The critical index is represented by the state when some of the subsets appear unacceptable already in the design stage.

On the other hand, a large number of suitable combinations signal an ineffective design. The tolerance chain could probably be designed in a more optimal way, with larger tolerances of partial components or with a smaller number of tolerance subintervals.

2. Technological part of the task

Optimization of the number of assembled products for the given numbers of manufactured components in individual tolerance subintervals.

This task has to be solved repeatedly during production, always before replenishing the stock before the beginning of assembly itself. The main aim of the task is to determine the optimum assembly procedure in order to achieve the biggest possible number of assembled products. When solving the task, we have to choose the optimum set of combinations from the subset of acceptable combinations used in assembly and at the same time determine the number of products assembled within each used combination.

The algorithm of optimization is based on gradual assembly of individual products by retracting the components from selected subsets. In the first stage, the calculation estimates the minimum and maximum possible number of assembled products. In further stages it retracts the parts from the selected subsets according to a pre-selected scheme so that the lower estimate of the number of assembled products increases as fast as possible and the upper estimate decreases as slowly as possible.

The solution to the task usually is not unambiguous. Several different assembly procedures leading to an identical number of assembled products can often be found. That is why the number of used assembly combinations is used as another optimization criterion. The minimization of the number of used combinations results in simplification and speeding-up of assembly, i.e. in the reduction of manufacturing costs. In some practical applications, both criteria are identically important.

Units of calculation, standardized tolerances.

This line is used to switch over the system of units for calculation and to select standardized tolerances.

Units of calculation.

In the list box, select the required system of units for calculation. After switching the units, all values will be automatically recalculated.

Warning: If you use optimization functions of program [1.11, 8.10], it is necessary to restart optimization after changing the units.

Standardized tolerances.

When defining the dimensional chain in paragraphs [1.1, 3.2, 5.1, 7.1], the tolerance is also set for each dimension. To simplify work, the program is provided with a tool for automatic selection of standardized tolerances.

The program includes a set of basic dimensional tolerances according to ISO, or ANSI. With respect to the type of deviation and applied standard, the tolerances are divided into 5 subsets:

Each subset contains a set of list boxes and buttons in the heading of the workbook. Set the required parameters of tolerance, possibly fits (accuracy level, tolerance field, ..) in the list boxes. Using the buttons, insert the dimensions of the required deviation into the appropriate place in the input table - the line with the active cell.

Tolerances according to ISO are defined by the standard in [mm] and are intended for calculation in SI units. Tolerances according to ANSI are defined in [in] and are intended for calculation in Imperial units. In case of use of standardized tolerances defined in units other than those set in the calculation, the deviations of the dimension will be automatically recalculated and rounded.

Warning: The program enables setting standardized tolerance only for one dimension in one step. If more cells in several lines are selected in the input table, the automatic tolerance set-up will not be performed. 
Note: If the selected tolerance is not defined by the standard for the given nominal dimension, zero values of deviation are set in the input table. 
Hint: For more detailed information on standardized tolerances, see workbook "Tolerances and fits".

A. Basic tolerance analysis.

This chapter enables the tolerance analysis, synthesis and optimization of dimensional chain using the arithmetic "WC" method, possibly statistic "RSS" method to be performed. 

The "Worst Case" method is used in case full assembly and working interchangeability of components is required and is suitable for solving dimensional circuits with a small number of components or if rougher tolerance of the final dimension is acceptable. The statistical "Root Sum Squares" method guarantees only partial assembly interchangeability and is used to decrease manufacturing costs in mass and large-lot production.

Designing procedure. 

The task of designing and optimization of a dimensional chain consists of the following steps:

  1. Define dimensions and tolerances of all partial components in table [1.1].
  2. In column 8 of table [1.1] mark the partial components with tolerances to be optimized.
  3. Set required limit sizes of the closed component [1.3].
  4. Set required optimization parameters [1.7 - 1.10].
  5. Start optimization [1.11].
  6. Check the dimensions of the closed component in paragraph [2].
  7. Save the workbook with the suitable solution under a new name.
Hint: You can find an illustration of the procedure in designing a dimensional chain for the "Worst Case" method in example 1, for the "Root Sum Squares" method in example 2.

Design and optimization of dimensional chain. [1]

This paragraph is intended for the design of a dimensional chain and optimization of tolerances of selected partial components.

1.1 Design of dimensional chain,

This table is used to define the dimensions of individual partial components of a dimensional chain. Each line of the table belongs to one partial component. The meaning of the table is obvious from the following description:

Column 1 - Name of component is an optional parameter.
Column 2 - Set the nominal dimension of partial component. "Increasing" components are positive, "decreasing" components are set with negative value.
Column 3 - Set upper and lower deviation of the dimension. Press the selected button in the heading of the workbook to insert the deviations appropriate to the selected tolerance into the table.
Column 4..7 - These columns contain the calculation of limit sizes, mean dimension and standard deviation of all partial components.
Column 8 - Set the switches to mark all partial components with tolerances to be optimized. Checking the field marks fixed tolerance, which will remain without changes after optimization.
Column 9,10 - After optimization, these columns contain designed (optimized) deviations. The left column contains results of optimization using the arithmetic "WC" method; the right one contains the results using the statistical "RSS" method. Press the button located on the bottom line of the table to transfer the designed deviations into the input column.

Note: On the bottom line of the table, the basic dimensions of the closed component are calculated in real time. For detailed parameters of the closed component, see paragraph [2].

1.2 Optimization of dimensional chain.

This paragraph is used to optimize tolerances of selected partial components of the dimensional chain defined in table [1.1]. Before the beginning of optimization, set the required limit sizes of the closed component [1.3] and set optimization parameters [1.6]. Start optimization using the button in line [1.11]. 

Optimization is performed for both calculation methods (WC, RSS) simultaneously. Designed deviations are listed in table [1.1], for resulting dimensions of the closed component see paragraph [2].

1.3 Limit sizes of closed component.

This paragraph defines required limit sizes of the closed component determined by functional requirements of the product.

1.7 Optimization process.

Select one of the following optimization modes in the list box: 

1. Design centring 
With the size of tolerance preserved, the calculation will adjust limit deviations of selected partial components so that the mean dimension of the closed component is as close to the mean of the required tolerance interval determined by limits [1.3] as possible. Depending on the set-up of tolerance accuracy [1.8], the calculation works in two modes:

2. Optimization of tolerances
With the mean value of the tolerance interval preserved, the calculation adjusts the tolerance of selected partial components so that the resulting dimensions of the closed component meet the requirements of the specification determined by limits [1.3].

3. Centring and optimization
Combination of both previous procedures

1.8 Tolerance accuracy.

In the list box select the type and accuracy of tolerances used during optimization.

In case any of first five items in the list box are selected, the size of the optimized tolerance will be set by the calculation, with a predetermined level of accuracy (number of decimal places). For optimized tolerances, the mutual ratio of their sizes is kept. 

In case the remaining two items in the list box are selected, the size of optimized tolerances will match standardized values. For calculation in SI units, standardized tolerances according to ISO 286 are used, for calculation in Imperial units they are used according to ANSI B4.1. In case the "Same tolerance grade" item is selected, the standardized tolerances from the same tolerance grade will be used for all optimized dimensions.

Warning: The choice of tolerances affects the size of optimized tolerances as well as the method of design centring (see [1.7]).

1.9 Minimum tolerance size.

Set the minimum size (accuracy grade) of tolerances which can be used during optimization.

Note: For calculation in SI units, the minimum tolerances are set according to ISO 286, for calculation in Imperial units according to ANSI B4.1.

1.10 Required yield.

Choose the minimum required yield of the manufacturing process from the list box.

Hint: Traditionally, a manufacturing process with resulting capability rate 3s (yield 99.73 %) is considered satisfactorily capable.
Note: This parameter is significant only for the statistical RSS method of calculation.

Parameters of closed component. [2]

This paragraph presents in a well-arranged form the detailed parameters of a closed component for the dimensional chain defined in paragraph [1]. For comparison, it contains the resulting dimensions of closed components for both original and optimized tolerances of partial components.

2.1 Required limit sizes.

In this paragraph, define the required limit sizes of the closed component given by functional requirements of the product.

Note: If the check box is checked, the limit sizes defined during optimization in [1.3] will be used.

2.5 Arithmetic calculation ("WC" method).

This paragraph shows resulting dimensions of the closed component in case the arithmetic "Worst Case" calculation method is used.

Note: Graphic presentation of resulting dimensions, see line [2.19].

2.10 Statistical calculation ("RSS" method).

This paragraph shows parameters of the closed component in case the statistic "Root Sum Squares" calculation method is used.

Productive yield [2.13] specifies the expected ratio of products meeting the specification requirements, i.e. products with a resulting closed component dimension within the interval specified by limit sizes [2.1]. Rejection of the manufacturing process [2.14] represents the estimated number of off-size products per million produced products.

Note: Graphic presentation of resulting dimensions, see line [2.20].

2.15 Limit sizes. 

This paragraph contains the calculation of limit sizes of the closed component for the selected yield of the manufacturing process.

Hint: Traditionally, a manufacturing process with resulting rate of capability 3s (yield 99.73 %) is considered satisfactorily capable.

B. Deformation of system due to temperature change.

The calculation used in chapter [A] is based on the assumption that the designed component will work at temperatures close to the basic temperature of 20°C (68°F) that the dimensions and tolerances of partial components were set at. If the components operate permanently at higher working temperatures, their dimensions are deformed during operation. This chapter is therefore meant to analyse the linear dimensional chain deformed as a result of the working temperature change. To check the resulting dimension of the closed component, the arithmetic "WC" or statistic "RSS" methods can be used. 

Design of dimensional chain. [3]

In this paragraph, define the dimensional chain and working temperature for the operation of the designed component.

3.1 Working temperature.

Set the expected working temperature for the operation of the designed component.

3.2 Design of dimensional chain.

This table is used to define the dimensions of individual partial components of the dimensional chain. One line of the table belongs to each partial component. The meaning of columns in the table is obvious from the following description:

Column 1 - Name of component is an optional parameter.
Column 2 - Set the nominal dimension of the partial component. "Increasing" components are positive; set the "decreasing" components with negative value.
Column 3 - Set the upper and lower deviation of the dimension. Press the selected button in the workbook heading to insert the deviations appropriate to the selected tolerance into the table.
Column 4,5 - Manufacturing (assembly) dimensions of partial components are calculated in these columns.
Column 6 - Select the material of the component in the list box.
Column 7 - Set the heat expansion coefficient. If the check box in the table heading is checked, the values will be set automatically according to the selected material and working temperature [3.1].
Column 8,9 - In these columns, dimensions of partial components at working temperature are calculated.

Note: In the bottom line of the table, the basic dimensions of the closed component are calculated in real time. For detailed parameters of the closed component, see paragraph [4].
Warning: Automatically designed values of heat expansion coefficient are calculated for the proper working temperature using empirically obtained coefficients common to the selected group of materials. Although the values obtained in this way are close to the values obtained by measuring the specific materials, we recommend that the values according to the material sheet or manufacturer's specifications be used for the final calculations.
Hint: In case you only perform a check of the dimensional chain designed in chapter [A], use the function of automatic data transfer.

Parameters of closed component. [4]

This paragraph shows in a well-arranged form the detailed parameters of a closed component for the dimensional chain defined in paragraph [3]. For comparison, the resulting dimensions of the closed component during assembly (20° C) and at working temperature are given here.

4.2 Heat expansion coefficient.

Set the coefficient of heat expansion of the closed component material.

Hint: If the check box in line [4.1] is checked, the coefficient will be set automatically according to the selected material and working temperature [3.1].

4.3 Required limit sizes.

In this paragraph define the required assembly dimensions of the closed component. Limit sizes of the closed component at working temperature are calculated automatically in dependence on the selected heat expansion coefficient [4.1].

4.7 Arithmetic calculation ("WC" method).

This paragraph shows resulting dimensions of the closed component in case the arithmetic "Worst Case" calculation method is used.

Note: Graphic presentation of resulting dimensions, see line [4.21].

4.12 Statistical calculation ("RSS" method).

This paragraph shows parameters of the closed component in case the statistic "Root Sum Squares" calculation method is used.

Productive yield [4.15] specifies the expected ratio of products meeting the specification requirements, i.e. products with a resulting closed component dimension within the interval specified by limit sizes [4.3]. Rejection of the manufacturing process [4.16] represents the estimated number of off-size products per million produced products.

Note: Graphic presentation of resulting dimensions, see line [4.22].

4.17 Limit sizes. 

This paragraph contains the calculation of limit sizes of the closed component for the selected yield of the manufacturing process.

Hint: Traditionally, a manufacturing process with resulting rate of capability 3s (yield 99.73 %) is considered satisfactorily capable.

C. Extended statistical analysis (6 Sigma).

This chapter enables tolerance analysis of a linear dimensional chain using the statistical "6 Sigma" method to be performed.

The "6 Sigma" method is a modern statistical method used for the assessment of manufacturing process quality. It is especially suitable in case of a requirement for higher quality manufacturing processes and for large volumes of production, where the mean value of the process characteristic may be shifted. The objective of the method is to achieve the mean value of the process characteristic at 6s distance from both tolerance limits. For such capable manufacturing process, the rate of 3.4 off-size products per million manufactured is achieved even at the expected mean shift.

Hint: Detailed description of the "6 Sigma" method, see theoretical part of user's guide.

Design of dimensional chain. [5]

This paragraph is meant for the design of a dimensional chain.

Hint: The meaning and a detailed description of parameters used in this paragraph can be found in the theoretical part of the user's guide.

5.1 Design of dimensional chain.

This table is used to define the parameters of individual partial components in a dimensional chain. One line of the table belongs to each partial component. The meaning of columns in the table is obvious from the following description: 

Column 1 - Name of component is an optional parameter.
Column 2 - Set nominal dimension of partial component. "Increasing" components are positive; set the "decreasing" components as a negative value.
Column 3 - Set upper and lower deviation of the dimension. Press the selected button in the heading of the workbook to insert the deviations appropriate to the selected tolerance into the table.
Column 4 - In the list box choose the type of theoretical frequency distribution. As a standard, normal distribution, which best matches the real distribution of random process quantities in the outright majority of cases, is used to describe the manufacturing processes.

Diagram of theoretical frequency distribution for normal distribution

Diagram of theoretical frequency distribution for uniform and triangular distribution


Column 5 - Set the capability index of the manufacturing process. If the check box in the table heading is checked, the values appropriate to the selected type of theoretical frequency distribution will be used automatically.
Column 6 - Set the factor of the process characteristic mean shift. This factor determines the relative value of mean shift related to half the tolerance interval. For a manufacturing process with "6 Sigma" quality, the mean shift factor k=0.25 is usually used.
Column 7 - In this column, the modified index of capability is calculated for the mean shift of the process characteristic.
Column 8,9 - In these columns, the mean value and effective standard deviation of the process are calculated.

Hint: The meaning and a detailed description of parameters used in this paragraph can be found in the theoretical part of the user's guide.

5.2 Parameters of selected input component.

In this paragraph, the detailed parameters of the selected input component are presented numerically and graphically in the way it was defined in table [1.1].

Hint: The meaning and a detailed description of parameters used in this paragraph can be found in the theoretical part of the user's guide.

Parameters of closed component. [6]

This paragraph shows in a well-arranged form the detailed parameters of a closed component for the dimensional chain defined in paragraph [5].

6.1 Required limit sizes.

In this paragraph, define the required limit sizes of the closed component given by functional requirements of the product.

6.5 Statistical calculation ("6 Sigma" method).

This paragraph shows the parameters of a closed component using the statistical "6 Sigma" calculation method.

Productive yield [6.11] specifies the expected ratio of products meeting the specification requirements, i.e. products with a resulting closed component dimension within the interval specified by limit sizes [6.1]. Rejection of the manufacturing process [6.12] represents the estimated number of off-size products per million produced products.

Hint: A detailed description of the "6 Sigma" method can be found in the theoretical part of the user's guide.

6.13 Limit sizes. 

This paragraph contains the calculation of limit sizes of the closed component for the selected yield of the manufacturing process.

Hint: For the "6 Sigma" method the manufacturing process with a resulting capability rate 4.5s is considered satisfactory.

D. Selective assembly.

This chapter enables tolerance analysis of a linear dimensional chain using the group interchangeability (selective assembly) method to be performed. 

The selective assembly method is used in mass and large-lot production of precise products which do not require working interchangeability of components within the product. Product assembly is preceded by the sorting of individual components into tolerance subsets. Manufacturing dimensions of components can be prescribed with bigger tolerance. Narrowed tolerance of the resulting dimension is achieved by practical matching (combination) of sorted subsets. 

Designing procedure. 

The task of designing the dimensional chain consists of the following steps:

  1. In table [7.1] define the number, dimensions and tolerances of components that the resulting product will be assembled from. Further select the number of tolerance subsets (subintervals) here for each component, which the components will be sorted into before assembly.
  2. In paragraph [8.1] set assembly parameters.
  3. Set the required limit sizes of the closed component [8.4].
  4. Search for all suitable assembly combinations [8.10].
  5. Check the search results in paragraph [8.11]. You can assess the quality of the dimensional chain design from the number of suitable assembly combinations [8.13]. A further guide for the assessment of design quality is possible unsuitability of a tolerance subset (table [8.14]).
  6. Adjust the dimensional chain parameters for the ineffective design in table [7.1] and repeat the search for suitable assembly combinations [8.10].
  7. Save the workbook with the suitable solution under a new name.

Besides the dimensional chain design itself, the optimization of a number of assembled products for the specified numbers of manufactured components [9] is usually a part of the solution. This task has to be solved repeatedly during production, whenever the stock is replenished before the beginning of assembly. 

Hint: You can find an illustration of the procedure in designing a dimensional chain using the selective assembly method in "example".

Design of dimensional chain. [7]

This paragraph is intended for designing and check of dimensional chain.

In table [7.1] define the number, dimensions and tolerances of all components that the final product will be assembled from. Further select the number of tolerance subsets (subintervals) for each component that the component will be sorted into before the assembly. In paragraph [7.2] you will find the limit sizes of the closed component for any assembly combination of sorted component subsets.

7.1 Design of dimensional chain.

This table is used to define the dimensions of individual partial components (parts) of the dimensional chain. One line of the table belongs to each component. The meaning of columns in the table is obvious from the following description:

Column 1 - Set the number of identical components joining the dimensional chain.
Column 2 - Name of component is an optional parameter.
Column 3 - Set the nominal dimension of the partial component. "Increasing" components are positive; set the "decreasing" components as a negative value.
Column 4 - Set the upper and lower dimensional deviation. Press the selected button in the workbook heading to insert deviations appropriate to the selected tolerance into the table.
Column 5 - Set the number of tolerance subsets (subintervals) that the component will be sorted into. You will set the identical number of subsets for all components using the selection from the list box in the table heading.
Column 6..11 - In these columns the limit sizes of all tolerance subintervals are calculated. Individual subsets are marked with a numerical index in the heading of table. Together with the component marking, the index is used to unambiguously describe the selected assembly subset (A1, A2, B1, B2, B3, ...).

7.2 Dimensions of closed component.

In the first line of the table, the limit dimensions of the closed component determined by the "Worst Case" method for full tolerances of partial components are specified. This data is only informative and is significant mainly for design centring. In case of well and efficiently performed design of a tolerance chain, the mean dimension specified here should be as close to the required dimension [8.7] as possible. 

In the second line you will find the limit sizes of the closed component for any assembly combination of sorted component subsets. You can set the required assembly combination using the appropriate tolerance subsets in list boxes.

Component pairing. [8]

Solving the task of correct component pairing is an inseparable part of designing a dimensional chain. The purpose of this task is to find such assembly combinations of individual component subsets for which the closed component meets the functional product requirements. The total of found combinations is the criterion for assessment of the design quality. The dimensional chain should be designed so that the number of suitable assembly combinations ranges within reasonable limits.

For small numbers of suitable combinations, it will probably not be possible to use all manufactured parts during assembly. That way the assembly yield of the process decreases and production becomes more expensive. The critical index is the state when some subsets seem unacceptable already in the design stage. 

On the other hand, a large number of suitable combinations signal an ineffective design. The tolerance chain could probably be designed in a more optimal way, with larger tolerances of partial components or with a smaller number of tolerance subintervals.

8.1 Assembly parameters.

The selective assembly method guarantees only partial (group) assembly interchangeability within the selected assembly combinations. In case of wear or damage of a partial component during operation, it is necessary to replace the whole assembled component. That is why the selective assembly method is used especially in the production of precise products, when working interchangeability of components inside the product is not required. 

Although it will result in increased manufacturing costs, it may still be more economically advantageous in case of some products to ensure complete working interchangeability of at least one component. For such defined requirement, we can apply two different solutions (methods) when solving the task of selective assembly:

8.4 Required limit sizes.

In this paragraph, define the required limit sizes of the closed component determined by the functional requirements of the product. The first column shows limit sizes of the closed component during product assembly. The second column shows limit sizes when the selected component is replaced.

8.8 Search of suitable assembly combinations.

This paragraph is used to search for all assembly combinations for which the closed component meets the functional requirements of the product specified in paragraphs [8.1, 8.4]. The program works in two modes:

Set the search mode in list box [8.9]. Run the search using the button in line [8.10], results are specified in paragraph [8.11].

8.12 Total possible combinations.

This parameter specifies the total of all assembly combinations that can be used in assembly of the product. 

8.13 Number of suitable combinations.

This parameter specifies the number of all found assembly combinations for which the closed component meets the functional requirements of the product specified in paragraphs [8.1, 8.4]. The total of found combinations is then the criterion for the design quality assessment. The dimensional chain should be designed so that the number of suitable assembly combinations ranges within reasonable limits. 

For small numbers of suitable combinations, it will probably not be possible to use all manufactured parts during assembly. That way the assembly yield of the process decreases and production becomes more expensive. 

On the other hand, a large number of suitable combinations signal an ineffective design. The tolerance chain could probably be designed in a more optimum way, with larger tolerances of partial components or with a smaller number of tolerance subintervals.

8.14 Table of suitable combinations / Unused subsets.

The table of suitable combinations shows assembly combinations with the closed component meeting the functional requirements of the product specified in paragraphs [8.1, 8.4]. The resulting dimensions of close component for the selected combination are specified in paragraph [8.15].

The table of unused subsets shows all tolerance subsets (subintervals) for which no acceptable assembly combination can be found. Products sorted into these subsets cannot be used during assembly. The assembly yield of the process decreases and production becomes more expensive. For a correctly designed dimensional chain, this table should remain empty.

Note: The table of suitable assembly combinations contains maximally 1000 found combinations and provides initial information for optimization of the number of assembled products in paragraph [9].

8.15 Dimensions of closed component.

This paragraph numerically and graphically presents the resulting dimensions of the closed component for the assembly combination selected in table [8.14]. The first column shows limit sizes of the closed component during assembly. The second column gives the limit sizes in case the selected component is replaced.

Optimization of number of completed products. [9]

If the selective assembly method is to be effective, it is necessary to solve the problem of optimal choice (combination) of components. The components have to be matched so that it is possible to assemble the maximum possible number of products meeting the functional requirements using the given number of manufactured components.

This task has to be solved repeatedly during production, whenever the stock is replenished before assembly itself is started. The main part of the task is to determine an optimum assembly procedure in order to achieve the largest possible number of assembled products. When solving the task, we have to choose the optimum set of combinations from the subset of acceptable combinations [8.14] used in assembly and at the same time determine the number of products assembled within each used combination.

The solution to the task is not usually unambiguous. It is often possible to find several different assembly procedures leading to an identical number of assembled products. That is why the number of used assembly combinations is used as another optimization criterion. The minimization of the number of used combinations results in simplification and speeding-up of assembly, i.e. a reduction in manufacturing costs. In some practical applications both criteria are identically important.

Warning: The list of suitable assembly combinations [8.14] provides initial information for solving the optimization problem. For correct functioning of the calculation, the data in this list have to be up-to-date and match the designed dimensional chain [7.1]. Before running the optimization it is necessary to run the search of suitable assembly combinations in line [8.10] at least once.

9.1 Number of components in individual subsets.

Set numbers of manufactured components in individual tolerance subintervals in the table.

Note: You can find limit sizes of all tolerance subintervals in table [7.1].

9.3 Optimization method.

Select the required optimization method from the list box.

Note: Although the primary request in case of methods A, B and C is to find the maximum number of assembled products, even these methods enable, to a certain limited degree, minimization of the number of used combinations to be performed.

9.4 Optimization criterion.

Besides the demand to assemble the maximum number of products, the demand to minimize the number of assembly combinations which will be used for assembly of the product often occurs in practice. With a decreasing number of used combinations, however, the total of assembled products also decreases. It is obvious that both these demands are antagonistic. Therefore, the parameter specifying the weight (importance) of individual criteria has to be specified during optimization. Set the mutual rate of importance of both criteria using the scroll bar.

Note: This parameter is important only if the last optimization method "D" in line [9.3] is selected. In case of other methods, the primary request is to find the maximum assembled products and minimization of assembly combinations is used only as an additional criterion.

9.5 Optimization.

The solution of the problem of optimization of the number of assembled products is not usually unambiguous. Several different assembly procedures resulting in the same number of assembled products can often be found. Therefore, the calculation offers the choice of selecting from several different solutions put together using different optimization schemes (algorithms). Select the solution in the list box before running the optimization.

Warning: The list of suitable assembly combinations [8.14] is initial information for the solution to the optimization problem. For proper functioning of the calculation, the list has to include updated information and meet the designed dimensional chain [7.1]. Before running the optimization, it is therefore necessary to perform a search of suitable assembly combinations in line [8.10] at least once.

9.6 Optimization results.

In this paragraph you can find the basic qualitative parameters of the designed assembly procedure. A detailed specification of the optimized assembly procedure can be found in table [9.12].

9.12 Summary of used assembly combinations.

This table shows the detailed specification of an optimized assembly procedure. The left column shows all assembly combinations used for the product assembly. The right column gives the number of products assembled within each combination.

9.13 Number of unused components.

This table shows the numbers of remaining (unused) components which could not be used in product assembly.

Examples. 

For the illustration of problems of tolerance analysis of linear dimensional chains, the user's guide is provided with several practical examples of utilization of this calculation:

Setting calculations, change the language.

Information on setting of calculation parameters and setting of the language can be found in the document "Setting calculations, change the language".

Workbook modifications (calculation).

General information on how to modify and extend calculation workbooks is mentioned in the document "Workbook (calculation) modifications".