Industrial Technical Glossary
Understand the term. Then follow it into the factory.
Definitions connect directly to the Industrial Skillset body of knowledge so terms lead into equipment, processes, quality controls and work methods.
Engineering Definition
Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
A standardized symbolic language used on engineering drawings to control allowable geometric variation in form, orientation, location, profile and runout.
Datum
A theoretically exact reference plane, axis or point used to establish the coordinate framework for geometric tolerances and inspection.
Feature Control Frame (FCF)
The rectangular GD&T callout that defines a geometric characteristic, tolerance, modifiers and datum references.
Quality
First Article Inspection (FAI)
A documented verification that a first production item or representative build meets the applicable engineering and process requirements.
Nonconformance (NCR)
A condition in which a product, process, material or record does not meet a specified requirement.
Statistical Process Control (SPC)
The use of statistical methods, often including control charts, to distinguish common-cause variation from signals that a process may have changed.
Metrology
Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)
A programmable measurement system that uses a probe to determine part geometry in a defined coordinate system.
Calibration
The documented comparison of a measuring instrument against a reference of known value to establish measurement performance and traceability.
Surface Roughness
The fine-scale texture of a surface, often characterized by parameters such as Ra using a profilometer or other suitable method.
CNC
Work Offset
A coordinate-system shift that tells a CNC controller where the programmed part origin is located relative to the machine coordinate system.
Tool Offset
A stored value used by the CNC control to compensate for tool length, diameter or wear relative to the programmed path.
G-Code
A family of CNC commands primarily used to define motion, coordinate modes, interpolation and machining cycles.
M-Code
A family of CNC commands used for machine functions such as spindle control, coolant, tool changes and program stops.
Machining
Safety
Automation
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
An industrial digital controller used to execute programmed logic for machines, processes and automated equipment.
Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)
An electronic motor controller that adjusts supplied frequency and voltage to regulate AC motor speed and torque.
Collaborative Robot (Cobot)
A robot system designed with features that can support defined forms of human-robot collaboration when the complete application is appropriately risk assessed.
Production Systems
Poka-Yoke
A mistake-proofing approach that designs a process, fixture or control to prevent an error or make it immediately visible.
5S
A workplace-organization method commonly expressed as Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain.
Traceability
The ability to connect a product or material to its identity, lot, heat, process history, configuration and relevant records.
Inspection
Avionics & Electronics
Electrostatic Discharge Control (ESD)
The controlled use of grounding, dissipative materials, handling methods and packaging to reduce electrostatic damage to sensitive electronic components.
Crimp Connection
A mechanically formed electrical connection created by compressing a terminal or contact around a conductor using specified tooling and process conditions.
Electrical Bonding
The intentional creation of a low-resistance electrical connection between conductive parts to support electrical continuity, fault-current paths or electromagnetic control.