Technology Application of practical mechanical electrical related sciences

Technology Application of practical, mechanical, electrical & related sciences to industry and commerce

Technology � Robotics � Automation � Communications � Design � Tomorrow’s World

Robotics � Handling � Welding � Other operations – see British Library production applications � Assembling � Packaging & palletising � Measurement, inspection & testing � Hazardous applications � Bottling example

What’s in the news today? � Technology of Business

Automation � Planning � Operating – see Stansted airport � Controlling � Stock Control

Communication � Social networking � Improvements in internal & external communication � Internal information can be processed & amended quickly � Company intranet � Increased speed of communication � Relationship marketing � Internet

Design � CAD = computer aided design ◦ Use of computers to improve the design of products � CADCAM ◦ Approach that combines computer-aided design & computer-aided manufacture, using IT to aid both the design & manufacture of an item

Design � Comparison & testing of new ideas � Two-dimensional drawings threedimensional images � Simulate testing � Creation of new products

Other aspects of technology � Investor relations � Nature of employment ◦ New skills & jobs ◦ Multi-skilling ◦ Changes in working practices

Benefits of using technology in operations � What are they?

Benefits of using technology in operations � Reduces costs � Improves quality � Reduces waste � Increases productivity � Increases flexibility � Financial monitoring � New & better products & services � Better working conditions

Issues in introducing & updating technology � Resistance to change � Lower morale � Cost � Keeping up with change � Lower barriers to entry

Are there any problems? � What do you think?

� Business week links