What is a crucial factor in designing manufactured products to facilitate ease of assembly?

In designing manufactured products for ease of assembly, avoiding tight tolerances is indeed a crucial factor. Tight tolerances can complicate the assembly process by requiring precise alignment and fitting of components, which can slow down production and increase the likelihood of errors. When tolerances are relaxed, parts can fit together more easily, allowing for quicker assembly and reducing the need for specialized tooling or techniques. This can lead to a more efficient assembly line, lower costs, and a reduction in the risk of defects during assembly.

While other options may contribute to the overall success of a product's design, they do not address the specific challenge of simplifying the assembly process as effectively as employing broader tolerances does. Simple component shapes, lightweight materials, and multiple assembly methods each have their own benefits but do not necessarily ensure that assembly will be straightforward and efficient, which is why avoiding tight tolerances stands out as a vital factor in this context.