Overview
EN ISO 10579:2013 (identical to ISO 10579:2010 including Cor 1:2011) is a Geometrical Product Specification (GPS) standard that gives rules for dimensioning and tolerancing non-rigid parts. It addresses parts that deform in the free state (under their own weight or residual stresses) but are intended to be verified or assembled in a restrained condition. The standard explains how to indicate restraint, free‑state tolerances and the conditions (orientation, gravity, support) needed to interpret drawing requirements correctly.
Key Topics
- Scope and definitions
- Defines a non-rigid part (deforms beyond drawing tolerances in the free state) and free state (subject only to gravity).
- Basic principles
- Distortion in the free state must not prevent bringing the part within specified tolerances using reasonable assembly/inspection forces (those expected in normal assembly).
- Where necessary, tolerancing applies in a restrained condition rather than the free state.
- Drawing indications
- Use the identification “ISO 10579‑NR” on drawings to indicate non‑rigid parts.
- Specify restraint conditions in a note (e.g., datum surfaces mounted, mating sizes, fixtures, orientation and gravity direction).
- Use modifying symbols (per ISO 1101) to show tolerances that apply in the free state.
- Informative guidance
- Annex A provides sample drawing annotations and interpretations (examples include specifying how surfaces are clamped or bolted and the mating condition used for verification).
- GPS matrix position
- EN ISO 10579 is a global GPS standard influencing form, orientation, location and run‑out chains (see ISO/TR 14638 for the GPS matrix).
Applications
- Design and drafting of thin, flexible or stressed parts (thin metal sheets, plastics, rubber components) where manufacturing release or handling changes shape.
- Production engineering and tooling: defining how parts are fixtured, clamped or restrained for inspection and assembly.
- Quality control and metrology: establishing repeatable verification procedures that reflect assembled function rather than the uncontrolled free state.
- Industries: automotive, aerospace, consumer products, medical devices and any sector using flexible components or precision sheet/formed parts.
Who should use this standard
- Mechanical design engineers, CAD/drawing specialists, manufacturing engineers, inspection and quality engineers, and standards/technical committees responsible for tolerancing practices.
Related standards
- ISO 1101 – Geometrical tolerancing (referenced normative standard for symbols and tolerance frames).
- ISO/TR 14638 – GPS masterplan and matrix context.
- Other GPS standards on positional tolerancing, datums and material requirements (see the ISO 10579 bibliography).
Keywords: EN ISO 10579:2013, ISO 10579, non‑rigid parts, GPS, dimensioning and tolerancing, geometrical product specifications, drawing indications, inspection restraint.
