1.6 Standardised and Bought-in Components

Define standardised components

Standardised components are those that must be able to fit other elements of a design.

Consider what would happen if you bought a punched notepad only to find that the holes were in the wrong position for the clips in your folder. This has been addressed by stationery manufacturers adopting a universally accepted standard spacing of 80 mm.

Give examples of standardised components that are incorporated into products

• screws

• light bulbs

• tyres

• plumbing fittings

• door locks

• audio connectors

• batteries

• fuses

• fitted kitchen units

• printer cartridges biro refills

• memory cards.

How do universal standards improve the nature of bought-in components?

Compatibility achieved by the adoption of universal standards makes it possible for product designers and manufacturers to specify third party bought-in components for their products.

Define bought-in components

Product parts that are sourced from external suppliers rather than being manufactured in-house.

Define sub-assembly

A self-contained element of a product that is made separately and incorporated in the final assembly stages.

What are the advantages of bought-in components?

• The components can be bought in bulk, which reduces the unit cost.

• No need to set up a manufacturing facility, reducing the need for specialist equipment and expertise which can be very expensive.

• A greater level of consistency in the components.

• Time will be saved.