Mirror image parts?

• A. Avoid
• B. Use
• C. Duplicate
• D. Ignore

Answer: (A)

When parts are mirror images, extra effort and cost are added to design, tooling, and assembly. The best approach is to avoid producing separate mirror-image versions unless there’s a functional need for asymmetry. Designing a single part that can be used on both sides (or features that are symmetric so one part serves both orientations) reduces tooling complexity, inventory management, and the risk of misassembly. This keeps manufacturing lean and simpler.

Choosing to use or duplicate mirror-image parts would create unnecessary variants and drive up cost, while ignoring the issue ignores potential assembly errors and variability.