The use of computers in converting the initial idea for a product into a detailed engineering design.

The use of computers in converting engineering designs into finished products.

The use of technology to ease human labor or extend the mental or physical capabilities of humans.

The systematic elimination of waste.

A system that eliminates work-in-process (WIP) inventory by scheduling arrival of parts and assemblies for an operation at the time they are needed and not before.

The science and technology of robots, their design, manufacture, and application.

A highly structured methodology that incorporates techniques and tools for eliminating defects and variability from a process. To achieve this, a process must not produce more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities.

A system that moves material either vertically or horizontally between a storage compartment and a transfer station or within a process.

A computer-controlled system that uses pallets and other interface equipment to transport work pieces to NC machine tools and other equipment in a flexible manufacturing system.

Continuous improvement that involves all participants.

A flexible group of CNC machine tools that are highly automated and integrated capable of producing a family of parts.

A numerical control method in which one computer is linked with one machine tool to perform NC functions.

A solid-state control system that has a user-programmable memory to store instructions.

The process to accomplish manufacturing involves a combination of machinery tools, power, and labor. Derived from the Latin words manus (hand) and factus (make).

products purchased directly by consumers, such as cars, personal computers, TVs, tires, and tennis rackets.

products purchased by companies to produce goods and/or provide services.

composed of two or more elements, with at least one being a metallic element.

Compound containing metallic (or semi metallic) and nonmetallic elements..

Compound formed of repeating structural units called mers, whose atoms share electrons to form very large molecules. (or Carbon+1)

Mixtures of metal alloys, ceramics, and polymers - processed separately and then bonded together to achieve properties superior to those of its constituents