In manufacturing systems, the term workstation refers to a location in the factory where some well-defined operation is accomplished by man and/or machines. The machines used in manufacturing or assembly can be classified as follows:
- Manually operated machines.
- Semi-automated machines.
- Fully automated machines.
Manually Operated Machines: In manually operated machines, the machines only provide the power for operations but the control of operations is totally with operators. An operator is required to be at machine continuously during operation.
Semi-automated Machines: A semi-automated machine performs a portion of the work cycle under some form of program/automated control, and a worker tends to the machine for the remainder of the cycle. Typical worker tasks include loading and unloading parts.
Fully Automated Machines: A fully-automated machine operates for extended periods (longer than one work cycle) without involvement of worker in the operations.
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