A new assembly variation analysis model based on the method of power balance for auto-body parts

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new assembly variation analysis model to analyze assembly variation for sheet metal parts. The main focus is to analyze assembly processes based on the method of power balance.

Design/methodology/approach

Starting with issues in assembly variation analysis, the review shows the critical aspects of tolerance analysis. The method of influence coefficient (MIC) cannot accurately analyze the relationship between part variations and assembly variations, as the welding point is not a point but a small area. Therefore, new sensitivity matrices are generated based on the method of power balance.

Findings

Here two cases illustrate the processes of assembly variation analysis, and the results indicate that new method has higher accuracy than the MIC.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to assembly variation analysis for sheet metal parts, which can be used in auto-body and airplane body.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new assembly variation analysis based on the method of power balance.

Citation

Xing, Y. and Wang, Y. (2014), "A new assembly variation analysis model based on the method of power balance for auto-body parts", Assembly Automation, Vol. 34 No. 3, pp. 296-302. https://doi.org/10.1108/AA-02-2014-013