Tolerance analysis programs 1

[CajunCAD]

Does anyone have any experience with tolerance analysis programs?

My boss is under the impression that if I add tolerances to my parts as I create them I would be able to push a button and get a report of potential problems (interference).

Thanks in advance,
Louis

 

[Standing]

Louis,
I do not know of a program that will do what you’re asking within SolidWorks. You could build all your parts at MMC (Maximum Material Condition) then run the interference detection check under tools. I do not build my parts at MMC, because MMC would not really show design intent. Each dimension on the drawing would have to have a tolerance of + .000/-.010. Plus as a side issue, the hardware created by toolbox and the hole created by SolidWorks Hole Wizard always shows interference. At the bare minimum run the interference detection check under tools. Bradley

 

[CajunCAD]

I found 2 programs listed as Gold Partners on the SolidWorks web site:

TASys

http://www.tasysworld.com/

&
Sigmund 3D

http://www.varatech.com/

Has anyone worked with these?

 

[TASys]

Your boss is correct in the fact that using SolidWorks if you add tolerances to the parts as you go TASys software can then let you visualise the model with tolerances set to the max, min and med and so see where potential interferences could occur. This only gives you some idea of what could happen. A full analysis can also be run to give you a report at the end of the analysis to show what % of you assemblies could have a problem using the tolerances you have set and also a list of all the tolerances and their % influence on the problem you are looking at so you know which tolerances need to be controlled more and those that can be relaxed.

Users include a number of companies such as Panasonic, Johnson & Johnson, Fuji Photo Film, Konica, Scitex Digital Printing.....