Evaluating the geometric characteristics of cylindrical features

This paper presents mathematical models and efficient methodologies for the evaluation of geometric characteristics that define form and function of cylindrical features; namely cylindricity and straightness of median line. These two problems have similar structures and can be solved by comparable procedures. Based on the proposed methodologies, the cylindricity error evaluation can be performed using any of the following criteria: the least squares cylinders, minimum circumscribed cylinders, maximum inscribed cylinders or minimum zone cylinders. The procedures have been tested for accuracy and efficiency. The results indicate that they provide accurate results quickly.