From solid modelling to skin model shapes: Shifting paradigms in computer-aided tolerancing

Product design requires the consideration of geometric models and representations that reflect shape deviations and support tolerance management issues. Computer-Aided Tolerancing (CAT) systems have been developed as simulation tools for modelling the effects of tolerances on digital product simulation. However, geometric variations cannot be addressed efficiently with regard to form deviations. This paper investigates the concepts of Skin Model Shapes, which provide a finite describability and the digital representation of the Skin Model concept, and their unified discrete geometry representation. New contributions to tolerance representation and analysis are presented. Applications and perspectives for CAT systems are highlighted as well.