JNTU
JNTU B.Tech IV AUTOMATION IN MANUFACTURING Previous Question Paper (July/August - 2022 - R15)
Answer any Five Questions. All Questions Carry Equal Marks.
Main
What are the basic elements of an automated system? Explain.
Answer
An automated system consists of three fundamental elements that work together to perform a process without human intervention:
- Power Source: Every automated system requires energy to drive the process and the control system. This is typically electrical power, though hydraulic or pneumatic power may be used for specific actuation tasks.
- Program of Instructions: This is the set of commands or logic that directs the process. It defines the sequence of operations, parameters, and decision-making logic. In modern systems, this is often stored in a computer or PLC memory.
- Control System: This element executes the program of instructions. It monitors the process outputs and compares them against the desired setpoints, making adjustments via actuators to ensure the system operates as intended. This can be an open-loop system (no feedback) or a closed-loop system (with feedback).
What is the difference between fixed automation and programmable automation?
Answer
| Feature | Fixed Automation | Programmable Automation |
|---|---|---|
| Sequence of operations | Determined by equipment configuration; difficult to change. | Controlled by a program; easily changed via software. |
| Production Rate | Very high. | Lower than fixed, but flexible. |
| Flexibility | Low; specialized for one product. | High; capable of handling different product batches. |
| Initial Investment | High (specialized tooling). | High (computer/control hardware). |
| Economic Application | High-volume, mass production. | Batch production or low-to-medium volume. |
Fixed automation, also known as hard automation, uses dedicated equipment designed to perform a specific, repetitive task. The sequence is fixed by the physical arrangement of cams, gears, and wiring. It is ideal for high-volume, low-variety production where the product design is stable over a long period.
Programmable automation uses equipment designed with the capability to change the sequence of operations through a change in the control program. While the hardware is general-purpose, the software is tailored to specific products. This makes it suitable for batch production where the system must be reconfigured frequently to accommodate different product designs.
Briefly discuss about various degrees of automation.
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Draw the simple block diagram of pneumatic circuit and discuss it briefly.
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What are the design considerations for automated flow lines?
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With neat diagrams, explain the functioning of various types of Transfer Mechanisms.
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How the storage buffer between the stages of production lines is useful in improving the productivity?
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Discuss the advantages and limitations of continuous transfer mechanisms.
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What are the factors to be considered in the analysis of line balancing of assembly line design?
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With a neat sketch, explain the various elements of assembly line.
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Describe the “Largest Candidate Rule” method of line balancing of automated assembly lines.
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What is the objective of adaptive control with constraints? With a neat sketch, explain the working of adaptive control turning process.
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Explain briefly the software configuration of Business Process Reengineering.
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Discuss the advantages and limitations of rapid prototyping techniques.
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