Manufacturing Considerations and Sustainability
This page delves into the ethical, environmental, and sustainability considerations that modern manufacturers must address. It also explores the role of robotics in production and the concept of material sustainability.
When it comes to ethical considerations, companies must focus on creating a safe environment for customers. This includes:
- Obtaining informed consent
- Ensuring voluntary participation
- Protecting customer privacy and confidentiality
Environmental considerations for manufacturers include:
- Managing byproducts of manufacturing processes
- Assessing the environmental impact of raw material extraction
- Monitoring carbon emissions and power usage
- Optimizing transportation distances
- Ensuring proper waste disposal
Highlight: Sustainable products often feature responsibly sourced materials, minimize environmental impact during production, prioritize worker welfare, and are designed for recyclability.
The role of robots in production has become increasingly significant. Cobots in manufacturing are used to:
- Replace repetitive and manual tasks
- Reduce labor costs
- Increase efficiency and productivity
Example: In an automotive assembly line, robots might be used for precise welding tasks, while humans oversee quality control and perform more complex assembly steps.
The advantages of using robots in production include:
- Transferring mundane jobs to higher-skilled roles (e.g., programming)
- Continuous operation without breaks
- Reduced labor costs
However, there are also disadvantages:
- High initial costs and maintenance expenses
- Potential job losses in certain sectors
- Safety concerns and risk of injuries around automated machinery
The page also discusses the concept of finite and non-finite materials:
Definition: Finite materials are non-renewable resources that are consumed faster than they can be replenished, such as coal, gas, and oil.
Definition: Non-finite materials are renewable resources that can be replaced at a rate equal to or faster than consumption, like oxygen, water, and wood.
Renewable power resources are crucial for sustainable energy production. Examples include:
- Wind power
- Wave energy
- Biomass
- Geothermal energy
- Solar power
Vocabulary: The product life cycle consists of five stages: extraction, processing, distribution, use, and end of life.
The concept of planned obsolescence is also introduced:
Definition: Planned obsolescence is a strategy where products are designed with a limited lifespan to encourage repeat purchases.
Lastly, the page touches on the pros and cons of global marketing and the use of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) in modern production processes.
Highlight: While global marketing can reach a wider audience, it also presents challenges such as language barriers, differing regulations, and increased shipping costs.
Understanding these concepts is essential for students studying Design and Technology, as they provide a comprehensive overview of the complexities involved in modern manufacturing and product development.
