Geometric Tolerance Analysis

This chapter focuses on five main literature models of geometric tolerance analysis – vector loop, variational, matrix, Jacobian, and torsor – and makes a comparison between them in order to highlight the advantages and the weaknesses of each, with the goal of providing a criterion for selecting the most suitable one, depending on the application. The comparison is done at two levels: the first is qualitative and is based on the analysis of the models according to a set of descriptors derived from what is available in the literature; the second is quantitative and is based on a case study which is solved by means of the five models. Finally, in addition to providing comparative insight into the five tolerance analysis models, some guidelines are provided as well, related to the development of a novel approach which is aimed at overcoming some of the limitations of those models.