Automated Production Line
An automated production line consists of a series of workstations connected by a transfer
system to move parts between the stations. This is an example of fixed automation, since
these lines are typically set up for long production runs, perhaps making millions of product
units and running for several years between changeovers. Each station is designed to perform
a specific processing operation, so that the part or product is constructed stepwise as it
progresses along the line. A raw work part enters at one end of the line, proceeds through
each workstation, and emerges at the other end as a completed product. In the normal
operation of the line, there is a work part being processed at each station, so that many parts
are being processed simultaneously and a finished part is produced with each cycle of the
line. The various operations, part transfers, and other activities taking place on an
automated transfer line must all be sequenced and coordinated properly for the line to operate
efficiently. Modern automated lines are controlled by programmable logic controllers, which
are special computers that facilitate connections with industrial equipment (such as
automated production lines) and can perform the kinds of timing and sequencing functions
required to operate such equipment.
Automated production lines are utilized in many industries, most notably automotive, where
they are used for processes such as machining and pressworking. Machining is a
manufacturing process in which metal is removed by a cutting or shaping tool, so that the
remaining work part is the desired shape. Machinery and motor components are usually made
by this process. In many cases, multiple operations are required to completely shape the part.
If the part is mass-produced, an automated transfer line is often the most economical method
of production. The many separate operations are divided among the workstations.
Automated Assembly Line
An assembly line is a production process that breaks the manufacture of a good into steps that
are completed in a pre-defined sequence. Assembly lines are the most commonly used
method in the mass production of products. They reduce labour costs because unskilled
workers are trained to perform specific tasks. Rather than hire a skilled craftsperson to put
together an entire piece of furniture or vehicle engine, companies hire workers only to add a
leg to a stool or a bolt to a machine.
An assembly line is where semi-finished products move from workstation to workstation.
Parts are added in sequence until the final assembly is produced. Today, automated assembly
lines are by machines with minimal human supervision. Assembly lines, on the other hand,
have workers (or machines) complete a specific task on the product as it continues along the
production line rather than complete a series of tasks. This increases efficiency by
maximizing the amount a worker could produce relative to the cost of labour.
Determining what individual tasks must be completed, when they need to be completed, and
who will complete them is a crucial step in establishing an effective assembly line.
Complicated products, such as cars, have to be broken down into components that machines
and workers can quickly assemble.
Essential conditions to do automation
Listed below are the 6 factors that we think are essential to follow for successful functional
test automation:
Build a dedicated team
It would be disastrous to get the manual testing team to work on test automation tasks.
The process and strategy for both is totally different, and even the results expected would
differ. Test automation is a dedicated and focused activity to consider, and cannot be
mixed. So, it is important to bring a dedicated team on board for the same.
Selecting the tool
There are some key factors to consider while selecting the automation tool - the
underlying objective and the training involved. It is important to select a tool that is
compatible with the organization and the people who would be involved in the process.
Finding the right tool is just the beginning
Yes, selecting the right tool is absolutely critical and definitely a good start. However, that
doesn’t end the job. The tool cannot be implemented everywhere, as it might not cover
every scenario. But if blended with the right strategy and skill sets, the tool will provide
the expected results.
Blend every aspect together for desired results
Again, it is critical to keep the objective in focus while building the automation strategy. It
is advisable to begin the automation process by creating the test case in a manual format -
collect all the requirements and testing data to build the automation plan.
Know your software/application
This could be the most important step to consider, understanding the application at hand
and knowing the key features of the application. This will help implement the tool
effectively and enable the right third-party integrations. This will ensure effective
automation even in the future.
Moreover, it will help identify any possible defects, memory leaks, performance issues,
scalability issues, and more.
Automation cannot be done for everything
While automation can solve major critical issues, it cannot be a solution for all. So, it’s a
misconception that if you select the right tool you can automate anything. Automation
tools can just make the process easier and faster. You will have to loop in and recruit the
right processes that can meet the desired goals. Automation cannot work in isolation, it has
to work in tandem with the overall testing process.
While we discuss the key factors involved in effective functional test automation, the role
of test engineers has to be specifically emphasized. Test automation engineers are a
valuable asset, as they provide visibility of any probable quality issues for the
development team across the product’s lifecycle.
System Configuration Automated Production Line
1. In-line
Consists of a sequence of workstations in a straight-line arrangement. Common for
machining big work pieces, such as automotive engine blocks, engine heads, and
transmission cases. Can accommodate a large number of workstations, and buffer
storage can also be planned for the configuration.
2. Segmented In-line
Consists of two or more straight-line transfer sections, where the segments are usually
perpendicular to each other. Layout designs include the L-shaped layout, the U-
shaped layout, and the Rectangular layout. Reasons for favouring segmented in-line
over in-line configurations include: floor space considerations; reorientation of work
parts to present different surfaces for machining in different line segments; the swift
return of work holding fixtures (in the rectangular arrangement).
3. Rotary
Consists of a circular worktable around which workparts are fixed to workholders.
The worktable rotates to move each workpart, in turn, into each automated
workstation which is located around the circumference of the worktable. The
worktable is often called a dial, and the equipment is referred to as a dial indexing
machine, or simply, indexing machine. Commonly limited to smaller workparts and
relatively few workstations, and they cannot readily accommodate buffer storage
capacity. However they require less floor space, and are generally less expensive than
other configurations.
