The Discussion of Uncertainties in Surface Texture during Design, Manufacture and Measurement

The objective of this paper is to examine different uncertainties between design, manufacture and measurement in surface texture by carrying out a deeply discussion and seeking possible evaluation methods. The analysis of correlation uncertainty, specification uncertainty and measurement uncertainty is carried out. All possible contribute elements of the uncertainties are listed and examined with presently available knowledge. The relationships and management between these uncertainties are discussed based on the requirements of Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS). It concludes that a rigorous control of specification uncertainty in the early stage of the design process can significantly reduce the cost and avoid later disputes over acceptance or rejection of product. A management method to reduce specification uncertainty based on comprehensive analyse is proposed. A statistical evaluation method of the specification uncertainty for a specified case is proposed and tested. The ultimate aim of the paper is to link design, manufacture and measurement seamlessly by decreasing uncertainties between them; thus to remove chaos and reduce waste, and to underpin a rigorous and cost-saving manufacture supply chain.