This paper presents an algorithm for generating tolerance chains from the mating relations between components of assemblies. The algorithm is developed upon a feature-based assembly modeling strategy that represents each component in close relation to its mating features, dimensions, and tolerances. The mating relations within an assembly are described by a mating graph. Tolerance chains together with their dimensions and tolerances are generated automatically by searching through a mating graph for matching mating features. A prototype program package based on the presented algorithm has been developed, and several examples of various complexity have been tested with success.
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