Introduction to Automation for Manufacture Vocabulary Flashcards

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers key definitions, enablers, types (Hard and Soft), and operational characteristics of automation in manufacturing as presented in the lecture.

Automation

The process of having machines follow a predetermined sequence of operations with little or no human involvement, using specialised equipment and devices to perform and control manufacturing processes.

Sensors

Devices used to provide input and achieve control within an automated manufacturing process.

Actuators

Devices used in automation to perform physical actions or control manufacturing processes.

Vision systems

A technology enabler used in automation for inspection, decision-making, and part rejection.

CAD/CAM

Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacture; modern technologies that serve as enablers for automation.

FMS

Flexible Manufacturing Systems; a technology that uses computer integration to allow machines to be reprogrammed for different part shapes and dimensions.

CIM

Computer Integrated Manufacturing; a high-level enabler for manufacturing automation.

Task

As defined in the context of automation, it is the combination of decision and action ($\text{Task} = \text{decision} + \text{action}$).

Fixed automation (Hard automation)

Machines designed to produce a standard product with high initial investment, lack of flexibility, and high production volumes.

Flexible automation (Soft automation)

Also called programmable automation; machines that achieve flexibility through computer control and can be easily reprogrammed for different parts.

Transfer lines

A specific example of fixed automation used in mechanical assembly processes.

Manufacturing cells

An example of flexible automation capable of making small batches economically.

Straight transfer mechanism

A type of transfer mechanism for workpieces that moves in a linear path between power heads.

Circular transfer mechanism

A type of transfer mechanism using a rotary indexing table to move workpieces between power heads.

Part variety (Hard Automation)

Characteristics of fixed automation where the variety of parts produced is described as being 'Few'.

Part variety (Soft Automation)

Characteristics of flexible automation where the variety of parts produced is described as being 'Infinite'.

Lot size (Hard Automation)

The standard production volume for fixed automation, typically defined as lot sizes $>100$.

Lot size (Soft Automation)

The standard production volume for flexible automation, typically defined as lot sizes of $1-50$.

Part changing time (Soft Automation)

The time required to change parts in a flexible system, which is described as 'Very short'.

WIP

Work In Progress; a metric that automation aims to reduce to improve manufacturing efficiency.

Feasibility Study

A planning process for automation that includes rationalising product design, planning fixtures, parts handling, and using computer simulation.