Unit 1: New & emerging technologies

Since when has automation been developing in factories?

• Since the Digital Revolution

• Since the Industrial Revolution

• Since the Technological Revolution

• Since the Information Age

What is one key difference between robotics and automation mentioned in the text?

• Robotics can work without human intervention, while automation cannot.

• Robotics use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve performance, while automation does not.

• Automation is more expensive than robotics.

• Automation can handle harmful materials, while robotics cannot.

Which of the following is an advantage of automation?

• Reduces employment workforce

• Needs maintaining

• Less chance of human error

• Energy needed to power machines

What is a disadvantage of robotics according to the text?

• Increased efficiency

• Can handle harmful materials

• More precise

• Very expensive to set up and repair

Define the term 'automation'.

• The use of control systems to manage processes

• Manual operation of machinery by humans

• The study of workplace efficiency

• The process of hiring more workers

Explain four reasons why a firm might prefer to use robots rather than human workers.

• Cost reduction, precision, endurance, and safety

• Increased social interaction, creativity, empathy, and intuition

• Preference for traditional methods, craftsmanship, and artisan skills

• Legal requirements, union demands, and social responsibility

Explain three disadvantages to the worker when a company decides to use more automation in the workplace.

• Job displacement, skill redundancy, and reduced job satisfaction

• Increased job opportunities, higher wages, and more training

• Improved workplace safety, shorter work hours, and job security

• More vacation time, flexible work schedules, and employee empowerment

Describe two factors that make the production of mobile phone circuit boards suitable for automated assembly line manufacture.

• Complexity of design and need for custom craftsmanship

• High variability and frequent design changes

• Precision and repeatability requirements

• Artisan skills and manual assembly preference

What is the primary purpose of crowd funding as mentioned in the text?

• To provide free gifts to the public

• To allow people to invest in a project and potentially receive rewards

• To pay interest on loans for new businesses

• To advertise products on television

According to the text, how has virtual marketing changed the retail experience?

• It has eliminated the need for physical stores

• It has made algorithms irrelevant in online shopping

• It has become a significant part of the retail experience through online promotion and sharing

• It has increased the costs of retailing from a website compared to a high street shop