Scale Flashcards
What are the four main scales of production?
- One-off / prototype
- Batch production
- Mass production
- Continuous production
These scales vary based on the quantity of products to be manufactured.
Define ‘prototype’ in manufacturing.
A prototype is a draft version of a product that allows the exploration of ideas before full development.
It helps in showing design concepts to users.
What is one-off production?
One-off production refers to the creation of a single product at a time, often handmade.
It is sometimes referred to as job production.
What is batch production?
Batch production is a method where a group of identical products is produced simultaneously before moving to the next group.
Each batch can have different specifications.
List examples of batch production.
- Baked goods
- Clothing
- Computer chips
- Die- or mould-making
- Electrical goods
- Flat-pack furniture
- Jet engine production
- Machine tool manufacturing
- Material coating
- Newspapers/magazines
These examples illustrate the diversity of products made using batch production.
What characterizes mass production?
Mass production creates standardized goods in large quantities, often using assembly line techniques.
It is capital intensive and relies on economies of scale.
What is the difference between batch and continuous production?
Batch production produces groups of products at a time, while continuous production manufactures materials without interruption.
Continuous production often operates 24/7 with minimal shutdowns.
What is continuous production?
Continuous production is a flow production method used to manufacture materials continuously without interruption.
It is typically used for bulk materials like oil and chemicals.
What does infrastructure in manufacturing refer to?
- Advanced manufacturing systems
- Engineering tools for design and manufacturing
- Product and process layouts and equipment
- Manufacturing training and education
- Manufacturing deployment
- Business practices
Infrastructure supports the overall functioning and efficiency of manufacturing processes.
Define ‘product layout’.
A product layout arranges equipment or work processes according to the progressive steps of product creation.
It is often exemplified by assembly lines.
What is a process layout?
A process layout groups similar equipment or functions together, allowing parts to move from one area to another.
This is common in machine shops.
What is cellular manufacturing?
Cellular manufacturing arranges production workstations in a sequence to support smooth material flow with minimal delay.
It enhances speed and flexibility in production.
What is automation in manufacturing?
Automation is the technology that allows processes to be executed without human assistance.
It can range from partial assistance to fully robotic systems.
What are the basic elements of an automated system?
- Power
- Program of instructions
- Control system
These components work together to execute manufacturing processes.
What is manual production?
Manual production is sometimes the most efficient form of manufacturing, especially for tasks that are difficult to automate.
It often allows for unique customization.
What is required for fully automated production?
- Conveyor systems
- Robotics
These components work together to create a fully automated manufacturing environment.
List the types of robots used in manufacturing.
- Cartesian
- SCARA
- Articulated
- Delta
- Collaborative (cobots)
Each type serves specific functions in the manufacturing process.
What is Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)?
CAM uses software and computer-controlled machinery to automate manufacturing processes.
It requires software, post-processing, and machines to operate effectively.
