Technology in Manufacturing

Technology in Manufacturing

• Manufacturing transforms raw materials (metal, textile, paper) into finished products through a series of processes.
• Manufacturing involves sequential stages, categorized into input, process, and output, which together form a production system.
• Input involves raw materials, tools, and equipment needed for manufacturing.
• The process involves actions like measuring, cutting, and forming used to transform inputs.
• The output refers to the finished product resulting from the manufacturing process.

Advances in Technology Improving Manufacturing

• Technological advancements, particularly in information and communication technology, make manufacturing more efficient.
• Automation involves machines performing tasks automatically with minimal human input.
• In the car industry, robots are used for welding and stamping metal parts, monitored and maintained by humans.
• Robots are continually developed to be more intelligent & work more closely with human beings.
• The hope is that robots will become advanced enough to make judgements without needing a human.

Advantages of Automation

• Automation can increase production speed, with robots working faster and without needing rest.
• Automation can be more cost-effective than human labor.
• Robots improve accuracy performing consistent tasks and reducing errors, unlike humans.
• Increased robot accuracy leads to superior product quality and reduced costs.
• Robots can operate in dangerous environments, protecting human workers.

Disadvantages of Automation

• Automation can lead to job losses as robots replace human workers.
• Robots can be very expensive to purchase and maintain.
• Robots cannot carry out tasks that require human judgment.

Smart Technology

• Smart technology connects computerized machines with sensors for data sharing, enhancing advanced tasks.
• Smart machines help organize tasks and track stock levels with minimal human input.
• Smart machines can be a part of the Internet of Things with enables the processing of online customer information
• Automated manufacturing is greatly improved through smart technology

Communication Systems

• Communication systems in modern factories involve smart machines exchanging information for efficient operation
• Workers use digital tools (telephone, email, video conferencing) and devices (tablets, phones) to share and receive information

Specialized Buildings

• Factories now incorporate smart technology and aim to reduce environmental impact through systems like water recycling.
• Factories use modular components for flexible production space.
• Increased automation and new tech like 3D printing reduce space needs, enabling smaller, local manufacturing spaces.
• Factories use automated tagging systems with wireless signals to track materials, tools, equipment, and partly made and finished products.
• Reduces production lead time.

Flexible and Lean Manufacturing

• Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) adapt easily to changes in product design or production levels, using computer-controlled machines with automated material transport.
• Lean manufacturing, originating from Japan, minimizes waste and maximizes efficiency to reduce costs in the process.
• The Just-in-Time (JIT) system delivers materials as needed, minimizing storage space and wasted material.

Advantages of JIT

• Reduced storage needs save money by reducing or eliminating warehouse rental costs.
• Lower costs incurred from storing unused materials.

Disadvantages of JIT

• JIT relies on timely, fault-free delivery of materials.
• Lack of time to return faulty goods can result in money loss if materials or components are not delivered when they are needed.