Minimum-Gap Evaluation Model for Multi-Constraint in One Dimension
The gap between components in an assembly refers to the performance of the assembly. While variation of the gap is associated with tolerancing specifications of components, it is an important issue to investigate the limits of the gap between corresponding components. In this work, we treat the minimum gap gmin, the dominant dimension for a multiconstraint assembly in one dimension, as an index related to the performance of the assembly. We then propose a calculation method for finding the minimum gap, when fitting conditions of linear dimensions are linearly independent. If the fitting conditions are not linear independent, we will find an independent probability distribution function which is defined to conform to all the other fitting conditions. Finally, an evaluation model for multi-constraint in one dimension, similar to the idea of Taguchi loss function, is proposed with an illustration. The assembled state of an assembly with multiconstraint in one dimension thus can be evaluated based on the model and calculation method proposed in this paper. By comparing the minimum gap, the assembly with least clearance is then identified.