G041: Lecture 10 Impact of ICT on Production Methods and Control Mr C Johnston ICT Teacher

Session Objectives Understand how ICT has impacted production control, Understand how ICT has impacted process control.

What are robots What is the assembly line

Production Control Control of production activities so goods produced on time, are an adequate quality, and at a reasonable cost. ICT can help in the process by: Controlling a “Just In Time” Ordering System Delivery of materials to the production line using Automated Guide Vehicles (AGVs) Heavy use of computers and sensors within manufacturing plant. Advantages of using ICT Consistent quality.

Process Control Automatic production which relies upon sensors feeding values back to the computer so variables can be adjusted to keep products consistent. Paper Mill Procedure: Wood pulp and water is mixed, Excess water drained, Rolled using rollers to removed excess water and make correct thickness. Sensors can be used to test the amount of water, thickness and strength of paper produced, Values fed back to computer and if they don’t meet set values adjustments can be made to the assembly line, Computer can make lots of adjustments per minute so paper quality remains very consistent.

Process Control - Advantages Faster production Higher quality, Less waste, Reduced cost, Fewer employees – lower wage bills, 24 hour production, Avoids handling dangerous substances or working in a dangerous environment, Benefits from economies of scale.

What happens on a real car production line

Impact on Society Increased safety within production environment, Increased health and safety issues because using computers, Level of employment – balanced?? Most jobs replaced by computers are low skilled therefore harder for those employed to get work without training.

Topic Exercise Read through the additional notes and reading material for this topic Download and complete this topics exercise.