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ISO 14405-1 – Linear Sizes vs. Geometric Specifications

ISO 14405-1 – Linear Sizes vs. Geometric Specifications

Learn ISO 14405-1 and how linear sizes differ from geometric tolerances. Understand LP and GG symbols to avoid common GD&T interpretation errors.

Overview of ISO 14405-1

ISO 14405-1 defines how linear sizes are specified and interpreted in engineering drawings. It clarifies the difference between size specifications and geometric tolerances, introducing concepts like local size (LP) and global size (GG).


This standard is critical because many engineers incorrectly assume size controls geometry, leading to misinterpretation and manufacturing issues.

Core Principle

Principle

Description

Impact

Linear Size Specification

Defines how size dimensions are applied to features

Ensures clarity in dimensioning

Local Size (LP)

Measures size at a specific cross-section or point

Controls variation at a local level

Global Size (GG)

Measures overall size across the entire feature

Controls variation at a local level

Core Concepts

Ensures overall functional fit

Technical Product Specification (TPS)

Size measured at individual sections of a feature.


Purpose: Size measured at individual sections of a feature.

Global Size (GG)

ISO GPS Integration

Size measured across the entire feature.


Purpose: Ensures the part meets overall functional requirements.

Size measured across the entire feature.


Purpose: Ensures the part meets overall functional requirements.

Independency from Geometry

Model-Based Definition (MBD)

Size does not automatically control form or orientation.


Purpose: Size does not automatically control form or orientation.

High-Cost Errors

Confusing Size with Geometry

Assuming size tolerances control form leads to rejected or non-functional parts.

Ignoring LP/GG Symbols

Misinterpreting local vs. global size causes incorrect inspection results.

How to Apply ISO 14405-1

01

Define Size Requirements

Specify dimensions clearly on the drawing.

Specify dimensions clearly on the drawing.

02

Choose LP or GG

Decide whether local or global size is functionally required.

03

Avoid Assumptions

Do not assume size controls geometric form.

Do not assume size controls geometric form.

04

Apply with ISO 8015

Ensure the independency principle is respected.

Ensure the independency principle is respected.

05

Validate Measurement Methods

Confirm inspection matches LP or GG definitions.

Confirm inspection matches LP or GG definitions.

Manual GD&T checks take 20 minutes. NexCAD does it in couple of seconds.

Manual GD&T checks take 20 minutes. NexCAD does it in couple of seconds.

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