Technology Flashcards
(8 cards)
Arguments for the use of robots
√ Robots can carry out repetitive tasks with great accuracy time after time – repetitive tasks undertaken by humans can lead to boredom, lack of motivation and human error.
√ They do dirty, dangerous jobs without complaining.
√ They do not get tired, sick, join trade unions, take days off.
√ Although initial costs high, long term costs reduced.
√ Increased output – greater speed. Likely to be fewer mistakes/errors – better quality.
Arguments against the use of robots
X Initial purchase cost can be very high and breakdowns can also be very expensive to resolve.
X Maintenance can be costly as downtime is required.
X Robots have proved to be too inflexible in final assembly where customer options have to be catered for.
X Reprogramming of robots can be very expensive indeed.
X They cannot problem solve.
X Maybe costly to keep up with technological achievements.
Define CAD
Computer aided design is an interactive computer system which is capable of generating,
storing and using computer graphics. It assists design engineers in solving design problems.
Advantages of CAD
√ Accurate designs can be constructed on a computer which can be viewed in 3D and rotated in order to demonstrate the whole range of possible images.
√ They can be easily and cheaply altered for a client - reduce lead time.
√ Designs can be accurately measured and tested on screen in order to detect faults prior to manufacturing.
√ Increased accuracy and ability to alter designs can reduce the cost of the design process.
√ Designs can be more easily stored and quickly retrieved.
√ Considerable sums of money can be saved by eliminating the production and testing of expensive prototypes.
√ Testing programmes can also be included, e.g. wind tunnels.
Disadvantages of CAD
X Cost of setting up – buying the machinery + training of employees to use machinery.
X Possible redundancy payments to unskilled employees.
X Reputation of business if they have to make employees redundant.
Define CAM
The use of computers in production. It occurs in all sorts of industries - for example, the
use of robotic welders in vehicle production.
Advantages of CAM
√ CAM allows for standardised quality – accuracy.
√ Reliability – less waste in manufacture.
√ Lower labour production costs – less supervision.
√ Greater customer satisfaction – fewer returns.
√ Easy to adjust – speed – cheaper.
Disadvantages of CAM
X Cost of setting up – buying the machinery + training of employees to use machinery.
X Possible redundancy payments to unskilled employees.
X Reputation of business if they have to make employees redundant.
