Examples: Using Orientation Tolerances

The Orientation Tolerances option allows TolAnalyst to consider tolerances that explicitly control feature orientation. When combined with the option, Float fasteners and pins, the Orientation Tolerances option allows TolAnalyst to use the clearances between features to rotate parts into their worst-case condition.

The Orientation Tolerances option does not consider these tolerances that implicitly control feature orientation: position, surface profile, and linear dimensions defined using the Location Dimension tool.

Example 1

Using this assembly, create a study to evaluate the distance between the base of the “L” bracket and the top plate.
The 106 dimension indicates the distance you are evaluating.
Apply the tolerances shown to the “L” bracket.
With Orientation Tolerances cleared, the results are a minimum of 103.5 and a maximum of 108.5.
With Orientation Tolerances selected, the results are a minimum of 98 and a maximum of 114. When TolAnalyst considers the parallelism tolerance of 1, the feature must also remain within the 125 +/- 2 limits.

Example 2

Using this assembly, create a study to evaluate the distance from the base to the shaft as shown by the 35 dimension.
Apply the size tolerance shown to the two holes in the base.
Apply the size tolerance shown to the diameter of the shaft.
With Float fasteners and pins selected and Orientation Tolerances cleared, the results are a minimum of 33 and a maximum of 37 (shown). Note how the shaft pushes up against the tops of the holes.
With Float fasteners and pins and Orientation Tolerances selected, the results are a minimum of 32 and a maximum of 38 (shown). Note how the shaft is rotated such that it contacts the top outside edge of the left hole and the bottom outside edge of the right hole.