Today's fast-paced manufacturing culture demands a handbook that provides how-to, no-holds-barred, no-frills information. Completely revised and updated, the "Handbook of Manufacturing Engineering" is now presented in four volumes. Keeping the same general format as the first edition, this second edition not only provides more information but makes it more accessible. Each individual volume narrows the focus while broadening the coverage, giving you immediate access to the information you need. Volume Four, "Assembly Processes: Finishing, Packaging, and Automation" deals exclusively with the finishing of a product. The proper selection of assembly process is critical, as it influences the production rate, quality, and cost of the product through tradeoffs in productivity of the facility and workers. Covering manual assembly as well as automation, the book explores the varied options available for assembly processes and emphasizes the importance of proper selection. Recognizing the growing importance and capabilities of automation, chapters cover the full spectrum of automation, including various types of automated machines, basic automation concepts, and flexible automation. The book's coverage also touches on packaging and provides an illustrative chapter devoted to printed board assemblies.