Question 1: Define 'mass production' and explain one advantage it offers to manufacturers.

Answer: Mass production is the manufacturing of large quantities of standardized products, often using assembly lines. An advantage is that it reduces the cost per unit, making products cheaper for consumers.

Question 2: Describe two differences between batch production and one-off (custom) production.

Answer: Batch production involves making a set quantity of a product in groups, while one-off production creates a single, custom item. Batch production is more efficient for larger quantities, whereas one-off is tailored to individual specifications.

Question 3: Imagine a company producing handmade jewelry. What scale of production are they likely using, and why?

Answer: They are likely using small-scale or one-off production because each piece is handmade and unique, requiring customization.

Question 4: Sketch a simple flow diagram illustrating the steps involved in mass production of a product such as a plastic bottle. Include at least three stages.

Answer: A correct sketch would show stages such as: raw material input (plastic pellets), moulding or shaping process (e.g., injection moulding), and final assembly or quality control. Each stage should be represented with clear labels and arrows indicating the flow.

Question 5: Design Brief: You are asked to create a new reusable water bottle suitable for outdoor activities. Which scale of production would best suit your design if you expect to sell 10,000 units? Justify your choice.

Answer: Mass production would be suitable because it allows for the efficient manufacture of large quantities, reducing costs and meeting the demand for 10,000 units.

Question 6: Explain one benefit and one drawback of using batch production in a factory setting.

Answer: Benefit: It allows for flexibility in producing different products or designs within the same batch. Drawback: It can be less efficient and more time-consuming than mass production.

Question 7: Sketch a layout plan for a small workshop producing handmade wooden furniture. Indicate areas for cutting, assembly, finishing, and storage.

Answer: A well-structured sketch would show a logical flow from raw material storage, to cutting area, assembly zone, finishing station, and storage for completed items, with clear pathways and labels.

Question 8: What are the main environmental concerns associated with large-scale mass production? Provide two points.

Answer: Environmental concerns include high energy consumption and significant waste production, which can lead to pollution and resource depletion.

Question 9: Sketch a simple diagram showing the difference between continuous flow production and batch production. Use labels to clarify.

Answer: A correct diagram would depict continuous flow as a straight, ongoing line with no distinct start or end, while batch production would show separate groups or batches entering and leaving the process, with labels indicating each stage.

Question 10: Design Brief: You are developing a new smartphone stand. Sketch your design idea and briefly explain whether your product is best suited for small-scale, batch, or mass production, providing reasons.

Answer: A sketch should show a simple, stable stand with a slot for a phone, possibly with a foldable or adjustable feature. The explanation should state that it is best suited for small-scale or batch production due to its customization potential and moderate demand, not mass production which requires high-volume manufacturing.