10.3 Computer Integrated Manufacturing

When considering design for manufacture (DfM), designers should be able to integrate computers from the earliest stage of design. This requires knowledge and experience of the manufacturing processes available to ensure integration is efficient and effective. Through the integration of computers, the rate of production can be increased and errors in manufacturing can be reduced or eliminated, although the main advantage is the ability to create automated manufacturing processes.

The integration of computer control into manufacturing can streamline systems, negating the need for time-consuming activities, such as stocktaking, but also reducing the size of the workforce.

 CIM

  • A system of manufacturing that uses computers to integrate the processing of production, business and manufacturing in order to create more efficient production lines.
  • Programmable computer based manufacturing system
  • Typically, it relies on closed-loop control processes, based on real-time input from sensors
  • Wikipedia reference

Elements of CIM:

  • Design (CAD) – the product is designed within the CAD software, tested and the necessary G-Code, materials, and other data is generated.
  • Planning – the computer system and database (contains design and production data) helps to plan the most efficient production process.
  • Purchasing – with the design and production the computer system can employ a JIT approach in purchasing the necessary materials.
  • Cost accounting – is the budgeting of the production process, receipts, and all things financial.
  • Inventory control – responsible for tracking the materials, products, again JIT can be employed.
  • Distribution – is receiving materials and the distribution of products to warehouse or vendors.

CIM and scales of production
  • It is costly to set up
  • Therefore it is better suited for large scale production such as batch, volume or mass
  • Advantages and disadvantages of CIM in relation to different production systems
Scale of Production Advantage Disadvantage
One – off or small scale
  •  Costs are too to high to be used therefore not suited
  • Not suited for non-complex products
Batch, Volume or Mass
  • Nicely suited for batch due to the high flexibility and automation of CIM systems
  • Suited for volume and mass due to the fully automated nature of CIM
  • Monitoring of system at all times
  • Great machine utilisation
  • Fewer errors and waste
  • Improvements in productivity and quality control
  • Greater consistency
  • Cheaper products
  • Parts easily manufactured and changed
  • Random introduction of parts
  • Less lead time
  • Less labor
  • Higher quality of finish
  • High initial investment and personnel,
  • Training cost
  • Job losses
  • Lack of individuality
Mass Customisation
  • More choice,
  • Can design in own requirements
  • cheaper products
  • Parts easily manufactured and changed
  • Random introduction of parts
  • Less lead time
  • Higher quality of finish
  • High initial investment and personnel,
  • Training cost
  • Job losses

Advantages and disadvantages of CIM in relation to initial investment and maintenance

Advantages:

  • System is constantly monitored so if there is a breakdown: the type and location of breakdown is easily identified making maintenance easier
  • reduces cost of maintenance
  • After the high initial greater profits will be achieved

Disadvantage:

  • high initial capital costs/investments due to computers, robots, training of personnel
  • maintenance  is complex, requires highly skilled employees

International Mindedness

A CIM system allows for efficient global workflow and distribution.

Theory of Knowledge

Technology has a profound influence in design. How have other areas of knowledge been influenced by technology?

Something Extra …

Design Tech for IB students