Production and Planning Methods

Question 1

Production Methods

Answer 1

One-off,
Batch,
Mass

Question 2

Production Methods - One-off

Answer 2

Single products,
Every product is unique,
Very labour intensive,
Highly skilled workers,
Flexible factory/workshop,
Expensive products

Question 3

Production Methods - Batch

Answer 3

Groups of products,
Similarly within groups,
Quite labour intensive,
Skilled workers,
Flexible factory/workshop,
Moderate product prices

Question 4

Production Methods - Mass

Answer 4

Many identical products,
Automated production,
Low skill workers,
Expensive set-up costs,
Low running costs,
Inflexible factory,
Cheap products,
Higher unemployment

Question 5

Methods to Improve Production

Answer 5

CAD/CAM,
CNC Machining,
Gantt and flow charts,
Jigs and fixtures,
Just-in-time production,
Standard components

Question 6

CAD/CAM (Computing Aided Design / Manufacturing)

Answer 6

CNC machines will accurately and repeatedly manufacture the 3D models from the design software.

Question 7

CAD/CAM - Advantages

Answer 7

Don’t have to be on the same site,
Efficient so fewer staff required,
Run simulations on CAD models,
Connects to stock control

Question 8

CAD/CAM Disadvantages

Answer 8

Very expensive to set up,
Staff need to be trained,
Reduces the number of skilled workers in society

Question 9

Jig

Answer 9

A device which holds or guides a tool, improving accuracy and repeatability.

Question 10

Fixture

Answer 10

A device which holds a part in place so it can be worked on. Improves accuracy and repeatability.

Question 11

Standard Components

Answer 11

Nuts and bolts,
Motors,
Servos,
Power supplies,
Filters

Question 12

Standard Components - Advantages

Answer 12

Can be manufactured in large quantities, making them cheaper to buy.

Manufacturers can focus on their own product rather than designing every component.

Replacements can be sourced easily.

No need to buy equipment or train staff to manufacture components.

Question 13

Standard Components - Disadvantages

Answer 13

They may restrict the design somewhat.

Manufacturer must deal with a third party supplier.

There may be delivery problems that the manufacturer can’t control.

There may be quality problems that the manufacturer can’t control.

Question 14

Gantt Charts

Answer 14

Gantt charts show tasks, duration, deadlines and workers.

Allow manufacturers to manage their resources.

Show task dependencies.

Question 15

Flow Charts

Answer 15

Flow charts show events, decisions and processes.

Question 16

Just-in-time Production

Answer 16

Just-in-time is a production setup where supplies and stock arrive as they are needed.

Manufacturers therefore do not have to hold large quantities of warehouse stock.

Question 17

Just-in-time Production - Advantages

Answer 17

No stock is held. Money is saved on warehouses, staff and associated costs.

Waiting and delivery times are shortened.

Question 18

Just-in-time Production - Disadvantages

Answer 18

Can’t adapt to a sudden increase in orders.

Manufacturer becomes very supplier dependent.