The term ‘automation’ refers to a wide variety of systems or processes that operate with little or no human intervention. In most modern automated systems, control is exercised by the system itself, through control devices that sense changes in conditions.

The development of computer and information technology led to the introduction of automation via computer-controlled, electrically powered assembly lines. Automation has made a major contribution towards an increase in both free time and real wages enjoyed by most workers in industrialised nations.

The difference between automated and mechanised production is that automation is more focused on technology and electronic data processing that replaces human labour with machines, while mechanization is based on machinery and equipment that ensures accuracy and speed of operation.

Assembly line production is the mass-production of a product via a flow line based on the interchangeability of parts, pre-processing of materials and work division. 

Put more simply, it means:

• Each manufacturing task is divided up into basic stages.

• Each stage is carried out using specialist labour and equipment - work division.

• A flow line (conveyor belt) moves each part from one stage to the next. This controls the rate of production - how fast it is made. This can, and often is, sped up or slowed down depending on demand.

This makes each individual task repetitive and therefore gives the manufacturer a great deal of quality control. However, these repetitive tasks are increasingly being carried out using control technology - robots.

The benefits of assembly line manufacture to both the consumer and producer are cheaper products - cheaper to make, cheaper to buy.

Mass customisation is a production process that combines elements of mass production with those of bespoke tailoring. Product features are adapted to meet individual customers' needs.

Mass customisation uses some of the techniques of mass production; for example, its output is based on a small number of platforms, the core elements of the design or components that make the basis of the product. In the case of a watch, the internal mechanism is the platform to which can be added a wide variety of personalised options at later stages of the production process. 

Therefore the purchaser of the Swatch watch has thousands of different options in terms of colour, straps, watch faces etc, yet all of them are based on just a few timekeeping mechanisms. Mass customisation is being introduced by many companies. Even a traditional mass production manufacturer like BMW is introducing personalisation of their cars. Nike By You (formally NIke ID) allows customers to customise their clothing and footwear before buying - Have a go: Nike By You.

Computer Numeric Control (CNC) refers specifically to the computer control of machines for the purpose of manufacturing complex parts in a variety of materials. The machines are commonly controlled by a standardized programming language called ‘G code’ (Geometry code). Each code is assigned to a particular operation or process. The codes also control X, Y, and Z axis movements as well as feed rate (speed).

When CAD systems are linked to manufacturing equipment which is also controlled by computers, they form an integrated CAD/CAM system. Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) equipment relies on a series of numeric codes, stored as computer files, to control manufacturing processes. This is then passed onto the CNC where the codes are translated into component shape geometry. The CNC then uses these to cut the required parts.

CAM offers significant advantages over traditional manufacturing approaches. CAM is usually associated with the elimination of human error, reduction in costs, and precision manufacturing. Although the initial set-up costs of a CAD/CAM system can be significant, these can be offset by increased production time, and manageable and predictable tool wear, replacement and maintenance.

Designer design specifically for optimum use of existing manufacturing capability. Design for Manufacture (DfM) is the process of designing products to improve the ease of manufacture; i.e. manufacturability. Simply put, it’s an approach to designing products with ease of manufacture in mind. By making things easier to assemble, one also makes the assembly process faster and more cost-efficient. This results in higher profits for the manufacturer, and can also add value to the customer, while benefiting the environment.

Before DfM the motto was ‘I design it, you build it!!’. Design engineers worked alone or only in the company of other design engineers in “The Engineering Department”. This separation of ‘departments’ went further up the manufacturing and marketing process and often lead to changes in design, concept or manufacturability when each department had its segregated input. This often leads to delayed product launches or issues with manufacturing sufficient quantities. The new approach to manufacturing is the integration of development teams. The team work together to not only design for functionality, but also optimise cost, delivery, quality control, reliability, ease of assembly, testability, ease of service, shipping, human factors, styling, safety, customisation, expandability, and various regulatory and environmental compliance. 

There should also be consideration of how a product can be easily disassembled to be recycled more efficiently and effectively. Repair of the product is also considered to extend the product's life cycle and reduce its environmental impact.