From manufacturing tolerancing to adaptive manufacturing targets

Abstract

The functional tolerancing process involves the allocation of the tolerance derived from each functional requirement, expressed at the assembly level, into multiple functional tolerances at the part level. For each part, the manufacturing tolerancing process transfers each functional tolerance into multiple manufacturing tolerances on the dimensions produced throughout the entire process. However, this transfer faces challenges when dealing with tight functional tolerances and constrained process capability. This article proposes an innovative method for adaptively optimizing the production process to enhance its capabilities. Rather than relying on a static manufacturing transfer, this approach involves intermediate measurements of each workpiece during production, modelling its digital shadow. By dynamically adjusting the targets of the upcoming manufacturing dimensions, individual adjustments aim to maximize the likelihood of conformity. This adaptive strategy allows for the allocation of tighter functional tolerances while ensuring workpiece conformity and maintaining the same manufacturing process. Concurrent engineering is thereby facilitated. © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.