CAD/tolerancing integration: a new approach for tolerance analysis of non-rigid parts assemblies

Abstract

The tolerancing integration in CAD model is among the major interests of most mechanical manufacturers. Several researches have been established approaches considering the geometrical and dimensional tolerances on the CAD modelers. However, the hypothesis of rigid parts is adopted in the digital mock-up. Thus, several physical factors are neglected; especially the deformations. In this regard, this paper presents a model for considering both tolerances and deformations in CAD model. The dimensional and geometrical tolerances are taken into account by the determination of assemblies configurations with defects basing on the worst case tolerancing. The finite elements (FE) computations are realized with realistic models. A method for modeling the realistic mating constraints, between rigid and non-rigid parts, is developed. Planar and cylindrical joints are considered. The proposed tolerance analysis method is highlighted throughout two cases study: the first comprises planar joints and the second comprises cylindrical parts in motion.