Tolerance Stack up Analysis using Monte Carlo Simulation and Vector Analysis Approach

Abstract

Geometric dimensioning and Tolerancing forms an approach for the design and manufacture of mechanical parts which control and restrict dimensional and geometrical deviations within the appropriate limits. It is a way to represent a dimension such that dimensions are interpreted in the same way by design, manufacturing and inspection engineers. The effect of these tolerances on the dimension results into untolerable clearance or interference in the final assembly. To avoid this condition and to meet functional requirements Tolerance stackup analysis is performed on the components and assembly. This study reviews various ways of performing tolerance stack analyses. In the present work one dimensional tolerance stack up analysis is performed by three methods namely Worst Case, Root Sum Square and Monte Carlo simulation. Microsoft Excel VBA (Visual Basic for Application) is used as the programming language to script the different methods of tolerance analysis and results being generated.