Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Concepts

Flashcards covering key concepts in advanced manufacturing, automation, and related systems, aiding in exam preparation.

Advanced Manufacturing

A modern factory process using technology, machines, and automation for efficient production.

Automation

The use of machines and control systems to perform tasks with minimal human intervention.

Robotics

Technology that involves the design, construction, operation, and use of robots.

CNC Machines

Computer Numerical Control machines that automate the control of machining tools.

PLC Control Systems

Programmable Logic Controllers that automate machinery processes.

Quality Control

The process of ensuring products meet specified standards.

Lean Manufacturing

A production practice that considers the use of resources in terms of value.

Safety Procedures

Guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety in manufacturing.

Control Loop

A system that regulates itself by measuring its output and adjusting input.

Force

A push or pull that can change an object's motion; measured in Newtons.

Proximity Sensors

Devices that detect the presence of objects within a certain range.

Reprogramming

Changing settings in a machine's control system.

Inductive Sensor

A sensor that detects metallic objects without contact.

Capacitive Sensor

A sensor that detects non-metal objects such as liquids and plastics.

Distance Sensor

A device that measures the distance to an object.

Conveyor System

A mechanism that transports materials from one location to another.

Counting Sensor

A sensor used to count objects as they pass by.

Vision System

A system that uses cameras to help machines recognize objects.

Ladder Logic

A programming method used in PLCs that resembles electrical circuits.

PLC

Programmable Logic Controller, a digital computer used for automation.

Actuator

A device that converts energy into motion.

Solenoid

An electrically controlled switch or valve that opens or closes air flow.

Pneumatic System

A system that uses compressed air to move and control machinery.

Teach Pendant

A handheld device used to program and control robots.

Home Position

The robot's starting reference location.

Collaborative Robot (Cobot)

A robot designed to work alongside humans safely.

Light Curtain

A safety device that stops machinery when a person enters a dangerous area.

Circuit Breaker

A device that prevents overload by cutting off power.

HMI (Human-Machine Interface)

A device that allows human operators to control machines.

LED (Light-Emitting Diode)

A semiconductor device that emits light when electricity passes through.

Parameter

A setting that defines how a system operates, such as speed or limit.

Feedback

Information returned to a system to adjust its operation.

Fluid System

A system that uses fluids for control and movement in machinery.

Mechanical System

A system that uses mechanical components to induce movement.

Thermal System

A system that uses heat to perform tasks.

Electrical System

A system that relies on electrical circuits and power for operation.

Safety Tools

Devices or protocols designed to ensure operator safety.

Emergency Stop Button

A button to immediately halt machine operations in emergencies.

External Control

Manual controls that override machine automation.

Indicator Lights

Lights that indicate the status of machinery or alerts.

Ice Cube Relay

An electromagnetic switch used to control electrical circuits.

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

A device that controls the speed of a motor by varying frequency.

Three-Phase Motor

A motor powered by three-phase electric power signals.

Potentiometer

A device for adjusting voltage or current in a circuit.

Limit Switch

A switch that operates based on the position of a mechanical component.

Normally Closed (NC) Switch

A switch that allows current to flow until activated.

Normally Open (NO) Switch

A switch that only allows current to flow when activated.

Photo Eye Sensor

A sensor that detects light presence or absence.

Timer Functionality

The capability to delay actions in automation systems.

Terminal Block

A connection point for wires in a control system.

IO Concept

The distinction between signals coming into (Input) and commands going out of (Output) a PLC.

Bernoulli's Principle

The principle that states faster fluid flow results in lower pressure.

Hydraulic Fluid

Fluid specifically designed for hydraulic systems, differing from regular oil.

Directional Control Valve (DCV)

A valve that directs hydraulic fluid flow in a system.

Suction

The method of gripping or holding objects by creating a vacuum.

Vacuum Generator

A device that produces suction by controlling air flow.

Airflow Direction Control

The process of managing the flow direction in vacuum systems.

Industrial Applications of Vacuum Systems

The relevance of vacuum systems in practical industrial processes.

PLC Training

Education on how to control industrial machines using PLCs.

Electric Power Management

The practice of controlling and optimizing power use in machines.

Emergency Response

Protocols to be followed in case of urgent situations with machinery.

Real-Life Application of Refrigeration

How refrigeration is applied in practical systems like air conditioning.

Refrigeration Cycle

The process of heat removal through compression and evaporation.

Compressor

A device that increases the pressure of refrigerant gas.

Condenser

A component that cools refrigerant and changes it from gas to liquid.

Evaporator

The part of the refrigeration system that absorbs heat, cooling the air.

Low-Pressure Liquid

Refrigerant in a low-pressure state that absorbs heat.

High-Pressure Gas

Refrigerant gas that is compressed to high pressure and temperature.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)

Systems designed to control indoor climate and air quality.

Fluid Power System

A system using liquids or gases to transmit power.

Heating System

A system designed to warm up indoor air using various devices.

Ventilation System

Systems that introduce fresh air into a space and remove stale air.

Air Conditioning System

A system specifically designed to cool indoor air.

Contamination Prevention

Methods used to prevent pollutants in air and fluids.

Air Movement Control

The regulation of airflow within HVAC systems.

Air Distribution

The process of directing air to various parts of a building.

Cooling Effect

The result of removing heat from an area to lower temperature.

Pressure Drop

A decrease in pressure, often leading to temperature reduction.

Heat Absorption

The process where substances take in heat energy.

Real-Time Monitoring

Continuous observation of systems for operational efficiency.

Troubleshooting Skills

The ability to identify and resolve issues within systems.

Control Signal

An output from a PLC that directs machinery operation.

Diagnostic Tools

Instruments used to assess and diagnose system performance.

Automated Assembly

Equipment or processes that assemble products with minimal human intervention.

High-Speed Counting

The ability of sensors to count objects rapidly.

Wireless Sensors

Devices that perform sensing functions without the need for physical connections.

Networking Systems

Systems interconnecting different machines and controllers.

System Maintenance

Regular procedures to ensure operational integrity.

Verification Techniques

Methods used to confirm that systems operate as intended.

Data Logging

Recording operational data for future analysis.

System Integration

The process of combining different subsystems into one cohesive system.

Industrial Automation

The use of control systems for operating equipment in industries.

Operational Reliability

The probability that a system will perform its intended function.

Process Optimization

Adjusting processes to maximize efficiency and results.

Feedback Mechanism

A method of using output data to adjust operations.

Signal Processing

The analysis and manipulation of signals to improve quality.

Control Algorithm

A formula used to regulate the behavior of systems.

Sensor Calibration

The process of adjusting sensors to ensure accuracy.

Maintenance Protocol

Guidelines for keeping systems functioning properly.

Electrical Safety Standards

Regulations that ensure safe operation of electrical devices.