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Reference · DFM for Assemblies

DFM assemblies.
Multi-part design.
Assembly cost.

DFM for assemblies. Reduce parts count, simplify assembly, design for repeatable assembly. Tolerance allocation across assembly.

01 · Key principles

Key principles.

Reduce part count

Consolidation

Combine parts where possible. 3D printing enables.

Tolerance allocation

Stack-up

Distribute tolerance across mating parts.

Self-locating features

Lead-in chamfers

Chamfered insertions for robot/manual assembly.

Asymmetric orientation

Single way

Orient features so part assembles single way only.

Standard fasteners

Off-shelf

Standard fasteners reduce inventory.

Captive features

Snap-fits

Eliminate fasteners with snap-fits where possible.

FAQ

Assembly time costs?

Manual labor $30-100/hour. Automation $10-30/hour amortized. Reduce assembly time = save cost.

Tolerance stack-up?

Multiple parts mating. Worst case = sum of tolerances. RSS = √(sum of squares). RSS more realistic.

Self-locating features?

Lead-in chamfers (45° × 1mm typical). Robots can position to ±0.1 mm; chamfer handles error.

Reducing parts count?

Combine parts where possible. 3D printing enables impossible-to-machine consolidation.

Standard fasteners selection?

M3-M10 metric most common. Avoid custom unless needed. Standard saves cost throughout supply chain.

Production volumes effect?

Higher volume justifies investment in automation, custom fasteners, tooling.

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