Which of the following is an example of flexible automation?

Flexible automation is characterized by the ability of a system or machine to adapt its operations to handle different products or tasks without requiring significant adjustments or reconfigurations. The correct choice highlights a system that can change its operations for different products, which embodies the core principle of flexibility in manufacturing and automation.

Systems designed with flexible automation are typically configured with programmable equipment, such as robotic arms, modular components, or use of advanced software, enabling them to switch between product types efficiently. This adaptability allows manufacturers to respond to changing market demands or product variations without the need for entirely different machines or extensive downtime for re-setup.

In contrast, other examples listed do not represent flexible automation. A dedicated machine for one product type is fixed in its function and cannot be easily adjusted to accommodate different products. A manual assembly line relies on human labor without the capability to adapt dynamically to varying product types or configurations. A fixed robotic arm is designed for specific tasks or products and lacks the adaptability that defines flexible automation. Thus, the system described in the correct choice aligns perfectly with the criteria for flexible automation.