A Review on Geometrical Tolerance Applications in The Automotive Industry

Abstract

This paper presents some of the earlier studies pertaining of analytical methods for tolerance, its effect and applications in the automotive industry. In today's automotive and aerospace industries, the tolerance process is crucial in the design phase and product development. In the design process, issues such as matches and limits, geometric and tolerance dimensions (GD & T) should be considered by designers to assist manufacturers and installation operators to reduce the cause of failure of critical parts. The impact of failure can destroy some critical parts and reduce the system performance. It is also noted that automotive suppliers for part and components face problems related to the quality due to miscommunication related to tolerance. Quality improvements with various methods have been made by automotive suppliers for part and components to remain competitive and building long-term relationships with automotive manufacturers. Automotive parts suppliers are required to contribute towards improving the overall quality of the car. While empirical studies show that statistical concepts are essential for good and important quality management in tackling the manufacturing process, there is insufficient emphasis on the use of tolerance in quality practices among these suppliers. The impact on manufacturing costs and the methods used will be reviewed as a benchmark for further research to optimize and improve the component reliability. As a result, it can be ascertained that extensive researches have been carried out worldwide focusing on tolerance optimization method for mechanical components in the automotive industry.