3-2-1 Principle of Location

The 3-2-1 principle of location (six point

location principle) is used to constrain the
movement of workpiece along the three axes
XX, YY, and ZZ. This is achieved by providing
six locating points, 3 pins in base plate, 2 pins
in vertical plane and 1 pin in a plane which is
perpendicular to first two planes.
In this method, 9 degrees of freedom is controlled.

Pins A, B, C on the base plane ( a plane parallel to the

plane which contains X and Y axis) restrict the rotation
of component about X axis and Y axis. It also limit the
downward movement of component along z axis. Ie.
1,2,3,4 and 5 degrees of freedom is restricted.

Pins D, E is in plane parallel to the plane containing X

and Z axes. It prevents the rotation of component
about Z axis (6, 7 degree of freedom) and the
movement of the body in along Y axis towards one
direction (8 degree of freedom).
The last pin F is in a plane parallel to plane contains Y
and Z axes. It restricts the movement component along
X axis in one direction.

Three remaining degree of freedom 10, 11, 12 is

unrestricted. It facilitates the loading of the
component in the fixture. This three degree of
freedom may restrict after loading of component by
using clamping devices.