New and emerging technologies · GCSE Design and Technology

Technology in industry

Automation uses machines and robots to do tasks once done by people. It is fast, accurate and consistent, but costly to set up and can replace jobs.
CAD (computer-aided design) lets designers draw, test and change designs on screen. CAM (computer-aided manufacture) uses the design data to control machines such as laser cutters, CNC routers and 3D printers.
Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) use computer-controlled machines that can switch quickly between products.
Just in time (JIT) production orders materials only when they are needed, so less money is tied up in stock and less space is used.
Lean manufacturing aims to cut waste of every kind: materials, time, energy and effort.

Crowdfunding raises money for a new product from many people online, and tests whether there's demand.
Virtual marketing uses social media and websites to promote products cheaply to many people.
Cooperatives are businesses owned and run by their members, who share the profits.
Fair trade makes sure producers in developing countries are paid a fair price and work in good conditions.
Technology push: new technology leads to new products. Market pull: customers' wants lead to new products.

Changing job roles: fewer manual jobs, but more skilled jobs in programming and maintenance.
Inclusive design makes products usable by as many people as possible, including disabled and older people.
New products use finite resources and create waste, so designers should consider sustainability.
Planned obsolescence means designing products to last a limited time so people buy replacements. It creates waste, whereas design for maintenance makes products easy to repair.

Automation: Using machines and robots to do tasks once done by people.
CAD: Computer-aided design: designing on a computer.
CAM: Computer-aided manufacture: using computers to control machines.
Just in time: Ordering materials only when they are needed.
Lean manufacturing: Production that aims to eliminate all waste.
Crowdfunding: Raising money for a product from many people online.
Planned obsolescence: Designing products to become out of date or stop working after a set time.
Market pull: New products created because customers want them.