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Design Review Checklist

Run through this checklist before manufacturing or finalizing any jig or fixture. Tick each item that is confirmed.

1Locating

Part is fully located with the minimum number of points (3-2-1).
Datum matches drawing and inspection datums.
Locators hardened and ground; contact areas small and controlled.
No over-locating (e.g. second round pin on the same axis — use diamond pin).
Chips and dirt cannot build up under locating surfaces.

2Clamping

Clamp force presses the part onto locators (direction correct).
Clamping over solid support — no deflection of thin sections.
Clamp force sized above cutting force / friction (Fcl ≥ K·Fc/μ).
No distortion of the part within tolerance.
Finished surfaces protected with pads or soft tips.
Clamps do not obstruct the tool path or spindle.

3Loading / Unloading

Quick and unambiguous loading and unloading.
No interference between part, clamps and fixture during loading.
Ejection / removal does not damage finished surfaces.

4Chips & Coolant

Chips can fall away or be flushed from locating surfaces.
Coolant can reach the cutting zone.
Coolant does not pool where it causes corrosion.

5Accuracy & Strength

Locating and guiding fits sized per tolerances (IT grades, H7/p6 bushings etc.).
Rigidity and stiffness adequate for the cutting forces.
Wear parts (bushings, pins) replaceable.

6Safety

No sharp edges or pinch points on the operator side.
Clamps cannot release under vibration (self-locking).
Rotating fixtures balanced; protruding parts guarded.

7Maintenance & Cost

Standard off-the-shelf components used where possible.
Worn locators/bushings easy to replace.
Clean-up and storage simple.

8Design Tips

Start from the machine table and spindle; design the fixture down from the datum.
Use commercial modular elements to cut design and machining time.
Prototype on cheap material or 3D print to check loading and clash before steel.
Mark fixture with part number and revision for traceability.

All items confirmed — fixture ready for manufacturing review.