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assembly-line

Definition

An assembly line is a manufacturing process in which parts are added to a product in a sequential manner to create a finished product efficiently. It's commonly used in mass production settings where the same item is being produced repeatedly.

Analogy

Imagine an assembly line as a sushi conveyor belt restaurant, where each chef adds a different ingredient to your plate as it moves along the belt. By the time it reaches the end of the belt, your dish is complete and ready to enjoy. Similarly, an assembly line adds components to a product step by step until it is fully assembled.

Related terms

Mass Production: The manufacture of large quantities of standardized products, often using assembly lines or automated technology.

Efficiency: The ability to accomplish something with the least waste of time and effort; in manufacturing, it often involves optimizing processes to produce more with less resources.

Sequential Production: A method of production where operations on goods are performed in a fixed sequence; this contrasts with custom or bespoke production where each item may require different operations

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.