Which tolerance controls the outline or contour of features in 2D or 3D?

Profile tolerance is specifically designed to control the outline or contour of features in both 2D and 3D geometries. It defines a boundary that a surface or a line must adhere to, ensuring that the shape of the feature matches the intended design as closely as possible.

This type of tolerance can apply to the entire profile of a feature, allowing for variations in the actual shape while still maintaining the integrity of the desired contour. Profile tolerances can encompass complex curves and free-form surfaces that are common in modern engineering and manufacturing, providing a significant degree of flexibility while ensuring that the essential characteristics of the part are preserved.

Form tolerances focus more on specific geometric characteristics, such as straightness, flatness, circularity, and cylindricity, rather than the overall contour. Location tolerances, on the other hand, deal with the positioning of features relative to each other and do not control the shape itself. General tolerances apply a standard set of limits to features but lack the specificity and precision needed for detailing outlines or contours. By utilizing profile tolerance, engineers can ensure that the desired visual and functional attributes of a component are met effectively.