Analytical model of locating system design for parts with free form surfaces

In this study, an analytical model for designing the locating system for non-polyhedral parts is presented. The model is based on constraining maximum (possible) workpiece D0Fs using accurately posed locators. The model consists of three main rules: parallelism between locators, maximum (available) distance between locators and maximum reciprocity (in screw theory) between base, side and stop locators. The model states that the simultaneous consideration of the mentioned three rules is necessary for obtaining a robust locating system. The modeling of the rules is implemented using the innovative base, side and stop locating matrices. The scoring method is employed for selecting the base, side and stop surfaces between locating candidates. A turbine blade model is incorporated to evaluate the suggested model’s capabilities in presenting robust and stable locating system.