Industrial Processes and Practices

Flashcards covering key concepts from the Industrial Processes and Practices lecture.

What is continuous production?

A manufacturing process that produces large quantities of identical products continuously, typically automated with minimal human involvement.

What are features that make products suitable for continuous production?

Products must be simplistic, in high demand, and consist of fewer components.

What is the main advantage of continuous production for consumers?

The end product can be very cheap due to low labor costs.

What is one major disadvantage of continuous production?

It can be very expensive to set up the equipment initially.

What characterizes batch production?

Batch production involves making products in specific quantities, such as a batch of 1000 bricks or a baker's dozen of bread.

What is one advantage of batch production?

It allows for flexibility in adapting to market demands and changing product preferences.

What are two main types of production methods in manufacturing?

Assembly Lines and Assembly Cells (Cell Production).

What is an advantage of assembly lines?

Low level training and skill required for workers.

What is an advantage of assembly cell production?

Better quality products and higher job satisfaction among workers.

What is the purpose of just-in-time manufacturing?

To minimize waste and costs by receiving materials only as needed in the production process.

What does using standardized parts allow companies to do?

It allows them to focus on the main product while reducing the need for specialized manufacturing.

What is quality control?

The process of ensuring that products meet specified criteria and function correctly throughout production.

What is the difference between quality control and quality assurance?

Quality control focuses on the product itself, while quality assurance encompasses the entire production process and company practices.

Name one benefit of project management in manufacturing.

Ensures products are completed on time and resources are managed effectively.

What does the critical path analysis help with in project management?

It helps identify essential steps and the timeline of the manufacturing process.

What is sintering?

A method for creating objects from powder by heating the material below its melting point.

What is injection molding?

A manufacturing process where molten material is injected into a mold to create a specific form.

What is the purpose of molds in manufacturing?

Molds are used to create specific shapes when casting materials like metal or resin.

What does CNC stand for?

Computer Numerical Control.

What is an advantage of using CNC machines?

They provide high accuracy and repeatability in cutting and shaping materials.

What are laser cutters primarily used for?

To cut out intricate shapes from materials using a high-intensity light beam.

What is the purpose of 3D prototyping?

To create high-quality models for evaluation during the design process.

What is a feasibility study?

An evaluation method used to determine if a proposed product is worth pursuing for manufacturing and marketing.

What is batch production often characterized by?

Using jigs, templates, and other tools to ensure uniformity in produced items.

What does lamination involve?

Bonding different layers of materials with a bonding agent to create stronger forms.

What is the primary outcome of quality assurance?

To ensure customer satisfaction and uphold the reputation of the company.

What is milling in manufacturing?

A process of cutting material into shapes by removing unwanted portions from a solid block.

What is the disadvantage of high-speed CNC machines?

They are often expensive to set up and maintain.

What is water jet cutting?

A process that uses a high-pressure jet of water mixed with an abrasive to cut materials.

What is extrusion in manufacturing?

A process of pulling or pushing softened material through a die to achieve a desired profile.

What does product differentiation involve?

Making a product distinct from similar offerings in the market.

Why is build quality important for a manufacturer?

It determines the reliability and customer satisfaction associated with the product.

What role does market research play in product development?

It informs manufacturers about the expectations and desires of their target audience.

What is the importance of environmental compliance in manufacturing?

Ensuring that production processes do not harm the environment and use sustainable resources.

What are 'one-off' products?

Unique items that are made individually, requiring highly skilled labor.

What's the purpose of project management systems?

To ensure that manufacturing processes run smoothly and products are completed on time.

What is stamping in manufacturing?

A process of pressing or stamping shapes under high pressure into a material.

What is the role of jigs in production?

To ensure accurate and consistent drilling or shaping of parts.

What materials are typically processed by cutting methods?

Metal, wood, and plastics.

What is the significance of a Gantt chart in project management?

To schedule and visually represent the timeline of a project.

What types of products are best suited for continuous production?

High demand products with simple designs, such as drink cans and light bulbs.

What does 'labour intensive' mean in the context of batch production?

It requires significant human effort and skilled workers to produce items.

What are some disadvantages of batch production?

It can be initially expensive to set up and requires flexibility to change types of products.

How does feedback from clients impact product design?

It provides insights into strengths, weaknesses, and necessary adjustments needed for the product.

What is stamping typically used for in the manufacturing process?

Creating specific shapes from sheet metal under high pressure.

What does the term 'assembly cell' refer to in manufacturing?

A small group of workers who assemble products together, promoting better quality and flexibility.

What is an important factor to consider before making significant investments in product development?

Conducting a feasibility study to evaluate technical and market viability.

What is a template used for in manufacturing?

A shape that helps mark out irregular designs on materials for cutting or shaping.

Why is it essential to have quality control at every manufacturing stage?

To ensure each product meets quality standards and functions correctly, thus ensuring customer satisfaction.