Abstract
The paper deals with some technical activities which are of particular importance in relation to production, but which are not always recognized as having a direct bearing thereon. Simplification of product, functional development and production research provide means by which existing facilities may be made to yield greater output, that is, to increase production efficiency. They also make it certain that industry will in the future employ those processes which ensure the maximum economic gain.
The attitude of the mechanical engineer to production techniques as a part of design also receives consideration, together with the desirability of infusing designers and draughtsmen with a greater interest in new methods. The responsibility of industry in affording training for this purpose is also discussed.
The lack of adequate support for production research is emphasized, while attention is drawn to the difficulties of small firms in benefiting from the results of research and development work on new processes.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.