emerging technologies

Question 1

emerging technologies

Answer 1

rapid 3d prototyping
laser technology
computer aided design
computer aided manufacture 
computer numerical control
robotics

Question 2

rapid prototyping (3d printing)

Answer 2

speedy process for building 3d models or prototype components using cad and plastics or other engineering materials
speeds up the whole product development process as it greatly reduces the time to produce a prototype.
Can be printed, examined, trialed and tested and adjusted immediately a process which once may have taken months

Question 3

laser

Answer 3

safely cut through many layers at a time
speedy accurate and precise
can also be used to take measurements of distances, levels positions and speed, emboss fabrics and detect faults
one off low volume and high volume production.
safe accurate and time efficient allowing for more complexity in design

Question 4

robotics

Answer 4

speedy safe and accurate
can be programmed to work long hours
completed dangerous and repetitive tasks
welding painting material handling assembly and inspection
allows for previously unsafe procedures to be included in the construction of the products
can be programmed to be flexible helping to meet consumer demand

Question 5

computer aided design

Answer 5

can be developed for sketches or drawings from scratch using a program
designs can be easily emailed for quick feedback
stored electronically instead of being drawn and stored on paper
3d visualisations
reducing costs and development time
quick accurate changes to design can be made with less errors eg google sketch up and autocad
can reduce need for prototype

Question 6

computer aided manufacture

Answer 6

the use of digital information from cad designs to directly drive machines and manufacturing systems.
faster production process
less human error so more precise dimensions and material consistency
minimal wasteage of raw materials and less energy consumption
controls things such as lasers, routers, knitters and embroidery and machine tools

Question 7

computer numericla control

Answer 7

the automation of machine tools and the use of cad/cam programs in a series of highly complex steps rto create parts and components
has reduced number of machining steps requring human action - improved consistency and quality
helps with faster results and easy to update designs
system used for any process that can be described as a series of movements and operations eg laser cutting, welding, bending, spinning, pinning, gluing etc