2.6 Selecting appropriate tools, equipment and processes

Question 1

How should manufacturers maintain safety in commercial manufacture?

Answer 1

comply with HSWA (health and safety at work act)
comply with COSHH
comply with personal protective clothing regulations 2002
Risk assessments

Question 2

What are the three main forms of a prototype prior to production?

Answer 2

Visual prototype
Proof of concept prototype
Production prototype

Question 3

What is a visual prototype?

Answer 3

shows the overall shape and size of the product, but doesn’t actually have any working parts. Materials are generally not those used for the final product.
provide an opportunity to test the visual impact that a product form may have

Question 4

What is a proof of concept protype?

Answer 4

shows the key functionality and main technical aspects of the design. Appearance is not important. Can be given out to users for testing

Question 5

What is a production prototype?

Answer 5

gives a representation of how the mass-produced product would look and shows how the product would function. Usually uses bespoke parts. Materials are close to the final products
Manufacturers use production prototypes to assess any alterations that may be required prior to mass production

Question 6

What is one-off production?

Answer 6

product designed and manufactured for a single situation. Usually hand manufactured and made to measure or bespoke. Labour intensive and requires skilled craftsmen and manufacturers

Question 7

What is batch production?

Answer 7

A set number of products are made at the same time. Jigs, templates and CNC machinery are used to ensure consistency in the batch. Machines are set up to do a specific task (e.g. depth stop on a pillar drill so all holes are drilled to same depth)

Question 8

Explain mass production?

Answer 8

Large quantities of the same standard product or component are made. Automation of manufacturing process where possible and extensive use of CNC machinery.