Principles of Motion Economy

Industrial Engineering Article Series
Principles of Motion Economy are to be used in motion design, motion analysis, motion study of human operators. Motion design is a technique of Human Effort Engineering, a core focus area of Industrial Engineering. They can also be used in robot motion design.

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Use of the Human Body



1. The two hands should begin as well as complete their motions at the same time.


2. The two hands should not be idle at the same time except during rest periods.


3. Motions of the arms should be made in opposite and symmetrical directions and should be made simultaneously.


4. Hand and body motions should be confined to the lowest classification with which it is possible to perform the work satisfactorily.



5. Momentum should be employed to assist the worker wherever possible, and it should be reduced to a minimum if it must be overcome by muscular effort.



6. Smooth continuous motion of the hands are preferable to straight line motions involving sudden and sharp changes in direction.



7. Ballistic movements are faster, easier and more accurate than restricted (fixation) or controlled movements.



8. Work should be arranged to permit an easy and natural rhythm wherever possible.



9. Eye fixations should be as few and as close together as possible.





Arrangement of the workplace



10. There should be a definite and fixed place for all tools and materials.



11. Tools, materials and controls should be located close to the point of use.



12. Gravity feed bins and containers should be used to deliver material close to the point of use.



13. Drop deliveries should be used wherever possible.



14. Materials and tools should be located to permit the best sequence of motions.



15. Provisions should be made for adequate conditions for seeing. Good illumination is the first requirement for satisfactory visual perception.



16. The height of the work place and the chair should preferably arranged so that alternate sitting and standing at work are easily possible.



17. A chair of the type and height to permit good posture should be provided for every worker.



Design of tools and equipment



18. The hands should be relieved of all work that can be done more advantageously by a jig, a fixture, or a foot-operated device.



19. Two or more tools should be combined wherever possible.



20. Tools and materials should be prepositioned whenever possible.



21. Where each finger performs some specific movement, such as in typewriting, the load should be distributed in accordance with the inherent capacities of the fingers.



22. Levers, hand wheels and other controls should be located in such positions that the operator can manipulate them with the least change in body position and with the greatest speed and ease.

References

Ralph M. Barnes, Motion and Time Study Measurment of Work, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1980

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More Details in
Principles of Motion Economy - Some More Details


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