Micro and Memo Motion Study

Introduction

Micro and Memo Motion Study is a crucial aspect of Work Study and Ergonomics. It involves the recording and analysis of motion at the workplace to identify areas for improvement and increase efficiency. In this topic, we will explore the key concepts, principles, and methods associated with Micro and Memo Motion Study.

Key Concepts and Principles

Micro and Memo Motion Study can be defined as the systematic analysis of work processes to identify and eliminate unnecessary motions. It aims to improve productivity, reduce fatigue, and enhance worker safety.

Recording and analyzing motion at the workplace is essential to identify areas of improvement. By observing and documenting the various movements involved in a task, it becomes possible to identify unnecessary or inefficient motions that can be eliminated or optimized.

The principles of motion economy provide guidelines for designing efficient work processes. These principles include:

1. Elimination of unnecessary motion: Unnecessary motions should be minimized or eliminated to reduce fatigue and increase efficiency.
2. Combination of motions: Whenever possible, multiple motions should be combined into a single motion to save time and effort.
3. Simplification of motions: Complex motions should be simplified to make them easier to perform and reduce the risk of errors.
4. Minimization of distance: The distance traveled by workers should be minimized to reduce fatigue and increase productivity.

Movements in Micro and Memo Motion Study can be classified into four categories:

1. Transportation: Movements involved in moving objects from one location to another.
2. Grasping: Movements involved in picking up or holding objects.
3. Operation: Movements involved in performing a task or operation.
4. Release: Movements involved in releasing or letting go of objects.

Charts to Record Motion at the Workplace

There are different types of charts used in Micro and Memo Motion Study to record motion at the workplace. Two of the most commonly used charts are the two-handed process chart and the SIMO chart (Simultaneous Motion Cycle Chart).

The two-handed process chart is used to record the activities of both hands simultaneously. It helps in identifying unnecessary motions and finding opportunities for improvement.

The SIMO chart is used to record the simultaneous movements of multiple body parts or tools. It provides a visual representation of the sequence and timing of these movements.

To use these charts, follow these steps:

1. Observe the task: Carefully observe the task or operation that you want to study.
2. Record the movements: Use the appropriate chart to record the movements involved in the task. Pay attention to the sequence and timing of the movements.
3. Analyze the chart: Analyze the recorded chart to identify areas for improvement. Look for unnecessary or inefficient motions that can be eliminated or optimized.

Micro Motion Study

Micro Motion Study involves the detailed analysis of individual motions within a task or operation. It aims to identify and eliminate micro-motions that can lead to inefficiency and fatigue.

The process of conducting a Micro Motion Study involves the following steps:

1. Select the task: Choose a specific task or operation that you want to study.
2. Break down the task: Break down the task into its individual motions or steps.
3. Record the motions: Use a suitable chart or recording method to document each motion involved in the task.
4. Analyze the motions: Analyze the recorded motions to identify unnecessary or inefficient micro-motions.
5. Propose improvements: Based on the analysis, propose improvements to eliminate or optimize the identified micro-motions.

Micro Motion Study has various real-world applications, such as improving assembly line processes, optimizing manual tasks, and enhancing worker ergonomics.

Memo Motion Study

Memo Motion Study focuses on the analysis of the overall sequence and timing of motions within a task or operation. It aims to identify opportunities for improvement by optimizing the overall motion pattern.

The process of conducting a Memo Motion Study involves the following steps:

1. Select the task: Choose a specific task or operation that you want to study.
2. Record the motions: Use a suitable chart or recording method to document the sequence and timing of the motions involved in the task.
3. Analyze the motions: Analyze the recorded motions to identify areas for improvement in the overall motion pattern.
4. Propose improvements: Based on the analysis, propose improvements to optimize the overall motion pattern and increase efficiency.

Memo Motion Study can be applied to various tasks and operations, such as packaging processes, material handling, and machine operation.

Development, Definition, and Installation of the Improved Method

Based on the findings of Micro and Memo Motion Study, an improved method can be developed to optimize work processes. This involves implementing changes to eliminate unnecessary motions, simplify tasks, and improve overall efficiency.

The improved method is defined as the revised process or procedure that incorporates the proposed improvements identified through Micro and Memo Motion Study. It aims to streamline work processes, reduce fatigue, and increase productivity.

The installation of the improved method involves implementing the changes in the actual work environment. This may include training workers on the new method, modifying workstations or equipment, and monitoring the effectiveness of the changes.

While implementing the improved method has several advantages, such as increased productivity and reduced fatigue, it may also have some disadvantages. These can include resistance to change, initial costs of implementation, and potential disruptions to existing workflows.

Conclusion

Micro and Memo Motion Study play a vital role in Work Study and Ergonomics. By recording and analyzing motion at the workplace, it becomes possible to identify areas for improvement and increase efficiency. The principles of motion economy provide guidelines for designing efficient work processes, and the use of charts helps in recording and analyzing motion. Micro Motion Study focuses on analyzing individual motions, while Memo Motion Study focuses on optimizing the overall motion pattern. The development, definition, and installation of the improved method help in streamlining work processes and increasing productivity. Overall, Micro and Memo Motion Study are essential tools for achieving efficiency and ergonomics in the workplace.

Summary

Micro and Memo Motion Study is a crucial aspect of Work Study and Ergonomics. It involves the recording and analysis of motion at the workplace to identify areas for improvement and increase efficiency. In this topic, we explored the key concepts, principles, and methods associated with Micro and Memo Motion Study. We learned about the importance of recording and analyzing motion at the workplace, the principles of motion economy, and the classification of movements in Micro and Memo Motion Study. We also discussed the different types of charts used to record motion and the steps involved in conducting Micro and Memo Motion Studies. Additionally, we explored the development, definition, and installation of the improved method based on the findings of Micro and Memo Motion Study. Overall, Micro and Memo Motion Study are essential tools for achieving efficiency and ergonomics in the workplace.

Analogy

Imagine you are a chef in a busy restaurant kitchen. You notice that you often have to reach for ingredients that are far away, causing you to waste time and energy. By using Micro and Memo Motion Study, you can analyze your movements and find ways to rearrange your workspace to minimize the distance traveled. This could involve moving ingredients closer to your workstation or reorganizing your tools for easier access. By optimizing your motion patterns, you can increase your efficiency and reduce fatigue, allowing you to prepare meals more quickly and effectively.