ABSTRACT
It is well understood that part-to-part (or batch-to-batch) variation cannot be avoided. Pioneers such as Deming and Taguchi taught that reducing variation would result in an increase not only in manufacturing yields but also in the end—customers’ perception of quality. However, before we reduce variations, we need to understand their source and their interactions. Tightening tolerances on all components may result in less variation in the overall product but it may also lead to excessive manufacturing costs. This chapter focuses on tolerance specifications and analysis as a design element. It will explore various techniques available for analysis and tools for making decisions on their levels.
