2.7 Scales of production

Prototype

A prototype is an example of one-off production

It is a unique, often experimental model

One-off production

Unique situation

More expensive

Difficult to produce

Batch production

Identical, made at the same time, set number

Equipment can be used to make a similar product

They use both manual and CNC machines, jigs, formers, and other aids

Little downtime

Mass production

Products that are produced on a large scale efficiently and consistently to achieve a low cost per unit

Automated and uses a production line with specialist equipment alongside human operators

Down time for maintenance, faults, or setting up of a new machine

Often involves putting together products from different sub-assemblies

Continuous production

Manufactures identical, high-in-demand components or materials

Highly automated, little human involvement

Highly specialised equipment

Initial investment is huge

Down time is infrequent, only for cleaning or maintenance