Stream-of-variation based quality assurance for multi-station machining processes - Modeling and planning

In the effort of quality assured product design and implementation, a reliable 3D manufacturing variation propagation model for multi-station machining processes (MMPs) is a key enabler to evaluate the output of geometric and dimensional product quality. Recently, the extension of the stream-of-variation (SoV) methodology provides quality engineers with a tool to model the propagation of machining-induced variations, together with fixture- and datum-induced variations, along multiple stations in MMPs. In this chapter, we present a generic framework of building the extended SoV model for MMPs. Its application in manufacturing process planning is introduced and demonstrated in detail through a 3D case study.