The design drawing is critical for producing a functional precision part. To avoid potential problems during production, Roth applies the ISO GPS standards system to its customers’ drawings.

Today, many design drawings that serve as a basis for production are created using considerably outdated methods and can contain imprecise, ambiguous and contradictory information for geometrical product specifications (GPS) such as size, shape or position. The result? Unnecessary errors and costly correction loops in the production process. But not at Roth: we work in accordance with the GPS standards of the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO): ISO 14405, 8015, 1101 and 22081. This ensures there is no room for interpretation and there are no misunderstandings.

Saving time and money

The ISO GPS system describes the geometric features of workpieces in a precise, standardised and unambiguous manner. In our experience, applying it is definitely worthwhile, as the pre-standardisation of technical drawings eliminates the need for time-consuming and expensive realignments of the production strategy during manufacturing. This saves us – and ultimately our customers – time and money.

Staying on the ball

Our employees were given training before the GPS system was introduced. Since then, we have been constantly learning about the standards system in order to keep abreast of the countless possibilities and the updates within it. This is no small task. After all, the GPS standards system is one of the ISO’s biggest standards systems. It currently comprises around 150 standards, and a further 22 are in development. Nevertheless, it makes sense to keep on top of developments in the standards system – not just to meet current requirements but also with a view to the future.

Gearing up for Industry 4.0

Standardised technical drawings are essential for the fourth industrial revolution, which is characterised by the digitalisation and intelligent networking of machines and processes in production. The GPS standards system is therefore a crucial stepping stone towards Industry 4.0.

However, like all languages, the geometric language must first be learned. But it is certainly worth the effort. Because clear and unambiguous communication is only possible with a shared language.