unit 3.2 Flashcards
Role of Research and Development
R&D is scientific and technical, usually about the product, what it is made of or how it can be made. The investigation or experimentation involving innovation or technical risk, the outcome of which is new knowledge, with or without a specific practical application, or new improved products, processes, materials or services.
Emerging Technologies
Sketches are made and then concepts are chosen to be made into CAD programs Lazer CAD CAM CNC
Impact Emerging Technologies have on design and manufacture
[Choose an emerging technology and explain its importance]
limited human contact, reduce human error, consistent parts etc
Methods and importance of Market Research
Gathering and analysing data about markets and consumers. Can be carried out through observations, focus groups, interviews, questionnaires, social media. Collects peoples reactions to existing products and information on potential users. Helps determine the nature of customers, demand for their product and what competitors are doing.
Obsolescence
When something (a product) becomes obsolete. This happens because it is no longer useful, out of date, cannot be used with current technology, replaced by another product which is more efficient.
Types of Obsolescence: Functional
When manufacturers choose lower-quality materials and processes knowing that the product will be less durable. The reason is cost (materials that are durable are expensive to source, work with and transport). A certain level of quality and durability must be maintained, otherwise customers will not feel they are getting value for money. It is a fine balancing act.
Types of Obsolescence: Technical
When a product becomes obsolete when a new technology/design is developed. Examples of technologies that change products are microchips, small batteries, wifi.
Types of Obsolescence: Style
Related to changing the nature of trends and fashions. Different types of products have fashion cycles of different lengths
Scales of Manufacturing: One-Off Manufacturing
One -off manufacturing (when a unique article or large product made to a specific design is required. Items are handcrafted, but certain processes may be outsourced. It can be costly - labour, materials - but is highly crafted in quality. EG piece of jewellery.
Scales of Manufacturing: Low-Volume Production
Small number of products are made for a specific situation. Can be manufactured locally in smaller multiples.
Scales of Manufacturing: Mass (High-Volume) Production
Production of thousands of items. This is standardised and inflexible, but gives the greatest economies of scale. Time-consuming and costly. Involves robotics, skilled or unskilled workers.
Scales of Manufacturing: Continuous Production
Occurs 24/7 and is usually run by computer aided manufacturing (CAM) systems. No interruptions and needs to be monitored so problems are quickly detected.
