3DCS Mechanical delivers simplified stand-alone modeling of mechanical and kinematic assemblies or as an add-on for 3DCS Variation Analyst, one of the core DCS software platforms. 3DCS Mechanical provides a library of joints and constraints to model assembly processes beyond simple sets. These assemblies can be static, or they can move through a range of motion.

To address the need for advanced non-linear equation solving capabilities within 3DCS Mechanical, DCS relied on the partnership and expertise of Spatial Corp., supplier of the General Geometric Constraint Manager (GGCM) developed by ALS Geometric Software S.A.. Using GGCM, 3DCS Mechanical is able to perform a range of analysis on assemblies that may bind or fail to articulate, allowing problem discovery and resolution in a virtual environment prior to production when escalating costs and project delays can be disastrous.

Complex assembly analysis and advanced non-linear equation solving, combined with large-tolerance joint handling capabilities, are some of the features of GGCM that DCS leveraged. “The partnership between DCS and Spatial provides mutual benefit,” notes Linda Lokay, VP Marketing & Business Development at Spatial, “DCS can deliver key differentiating solutions by partnering with Spatial and Spatial gains better insight and knowledge about the stringent requirements needed by DCS helping advance our components.”

“We have built this new tool in response to our customer’s needs, and will continue to streamline its functionality to make it the perfect tool for mechanical assemblies,” says John Mathieson, Executive Vice President and COO at DCS, “With the assistance of our partner, Spatial Corp, we have created a unique software solution that raises the bar for variation analysis.”

After becoming a V6 Partner, this is another proof of all the capabilities that can be delivered from the strong partnership between Dassault Systèmes and DCS!

In today’s world, effective communications and consistent measurements across all engineering disciplines and processes are essential to the design and manufacture of the highest quality products. Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) is key to achieving these goals. 

The GD&T symbols for each dimension on a part represent their relationship to a “datum,” the feature on that part that is used as a reference point for tolerance calculations and dimensional measurements. The datum on each part is considered “zero” and calculations are built from that point to all other dimensions in order to ensure the consistency of the part. A datum system, often referred to as a “zero reference” system, makes it clear to design, manufacturing and quality engineers where they need to begin measuring or manufacturing from. Additionally, the use of datums dramatically simplifies the design and specification processes. 

There are two standard GD&T languages: ASME Y14.5-2009 within the United States, and ISO 1101-2004 outside the United States.

Before GD&T existed, there were no standards; many people interpreted each drawing differently. GD&T is standardized and mathematized which means that anyone who knows the language can read a drawing and interpret it as intended. 

But is it being used to its fullest potential? Many experts, like GD&T pioneer and educator Bob Kaphengst, say it is not. 

According to Kaphengst, the lack of formal education about GD&T is one of the main roadblocks. 

“Most engineering schools and graduate programs do not teach GD&T as part of their curricula,” explained Kaphengst, “so when engineers get into the workplace, they simply apply the symbols they learn on the job to their design work without a true understanding of how to optimize the use of GD&T to improve product quality.” 

“In many businesses, there isn’t smooth, consistent coordination between the designers who apply GD&T and the manufacturing engineers who rely on the symbols for tooling and assembly,” notes Kaphengst. “There needs to be a process where designers ask manufacturing engineers and quality inspectors if the parts and tooling they’ve drawn will fit together and function as intended.”

Kaphengst believes that an understanding of GD&T should extend even beyond the product and manufacturing engineers and that anyone who creates, approves or uses an engineering drawing should know how to read and apply GD&T.. 

GD&T is one of the most powerful tools available to improve quality, reduce cost and shorten delivery time. With a solid understanding of how to optimize this tool, companies around the globe can experience the highest levels of customer satisfaction and profitability.

What do you think?

• Do you agree that GD&T isn't as widely used as it should be?
• Should GD&T be added to engineering school curriculum? Do you know of programs that include it?
• What do you think is the best way to teach GD&T across the organization, including manufacturing, purchasing, etc... not just designers?

More about Robert Kaphengst:

Robert Kaphengst serves as president and chief executive officer of Dimensional Control Systems, Inc., www.3dcs.com, which he co-founded in 1994. In addition, Kaphengst is a frequent industry speaker on the continuous improvement of product quality through processes including GD&T. Prior to co-founding DCS, he was with General Motors for nearly 30 years where he drove manufacturing process improvements. In his last 10 years at GM, he was responsible for the dimensional management process and the use of GD&T within the Truck Division. After leaving General Motors, Kaphengst continued to serve as a contractor, responsible for dimensional problem-solving at assembly plants. Kaphengst is a widely respected pioneer in the application of GD&T. including special applications on body sheet metal. He has taught several hundred classes on the subject at companies across North America, South America, Germany and England.