Predetermined Time Systems in Work Measurement

Predetermined Time System

• Predetermined time systems are work measurement techniques used to set standards for short, repetitive motions.
• These systems are used for short motions that are difficult to measure with other methods.
• The predetermined time system offers a standard "language" for documenting sequences of elements that define operations.
• It enables determination of standard times for new operations, especially when past data is unavailable.
• It allows comparison of different methods for performing a new task before choosing the best option.
• Predetermined time systems can be beneficial for worker training.

Classifications of Work Measurement Techniques

• Work measurement techniques are categorized and classified based on various methods.
• Performance evaluation is a broad category that includes several evaluation techniques.
• Direct time study is a method of measuring work time directly.
• Predetermined times are a set of time values for specific motions, often involving detailed analysis of workers' motions.
• Work sampling is gathering and analyzing data on the frequency of various tasks.
• Standard data is a body of pre-collected, established data to reference.
• General approaches include methods like MTM (Methods Time Measurement) and MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique).
• Functional approaches are tailored to specific activities.

Advantages of Predetermined Times

• Predetermined time systems are useful when defining standards for very brief, difficult-to-measure motions.
• These methods establish a standard "language" for documenting sequences of work elements.
• They allow for determining standard times for new tasks where historical data is absent.
• They empower the comparison of different approaches to executing a new task.
• Predetermined time systems are valuable for training workers.

Methods Time Measurement (MTM)

• MTM data collection often relies on detailed motion picture recordings of skilled workers performing tasks.
• Influence factors in motion analyses become characteristics applied to establishing standard times.
• Each motion is independently defined and tabulated for defining standard time values.
• MTM became a widely accepted standard method in numerous countries worldwide.

MTM-1 - Basic MTM Module

• The fundamental unit of time is a time measurement unit (TMU).
• 1 TMU is equivalent to 0.00001 hour, 0.0006 minutes, or 0.036 seconds.
• This unit emerged from picture-based recording technology, capable of measuring extremely short motions (around 3-4 hundredths of a second).
• Using TMUs enables the examination of much shorter motions compared to stopwatches.

MTM-1 (1948) - Definition and Characteristics

• MTM-1 is a methodical approach to meticulously dissecting manual work using elemental motions to complete the task.
• Each motion is assigned a pre-determined time value impacted by environmental conditions.
• This is done based on approximately 5,000 time values relating to 23 basic motions.

Basic Elements

• Reach (R): Moving the hand or fingers to a destination, affected by distance and the type of reach.
• Move (M): Transporting an object to a destination, affected by the distance, weight, and type of movement.
• Grasp (G): Securing sufficient control of one or more objects with fingers or hands, dependent on object size, shape, and location.
• Position (P): Aligning, orienting, and engaging an object with another object (minor motions), influenced by handling ease, symmetry, and required insertion pressure.
• Release (RL): Releasing the grip on an object by hands or fingers.

Basic Elements (continued)

• Disengage (D): Breaking contact between objects, affected by the required effort.
• Turn (T): Rotating the hand, optionally loaded, influenced by rotation degree and object weight.
• Apply Pressure (AP): Applying pressure to an object, considered when eyes guide hand movements.
• Eye Travel (ET): Time for eye movements for guiding hand/body movements, affected by distances between travel points and eye-to-travel-line distance.
• Body Leg and Foot Motion (BMF): Motions relating to body and leg movements (e.g., walking, standing, bending).

Other MTM-Based Methods

• MTM-2 (1965): Used for longer tasks, based on 9 basic motions and 39 time values.
• MTM-3 (1970): Consists of 4 categories of manual motions (10 time values). Includes handle, transport, step & foot motion, and bend & arise.
• MTM-V: Used for metal cutting operations.
• MTM-C: Used for clerical work.

MOST - Maynard Operation Sequence Technique

• In MTM, elements stand alone and do not pertain to the operational sequence.
• MOST considers complete operation sequences comprising smaller elements.

What is MOST?

• MOST is Maynard Operation Sequence Technique.
• It was developed by Zandin in 1980.
• It utilizes larger blocks of fundamental motions compared to MTM-1.
• General Move, Controlled Move, and Tool Use encompass different types of movement sequences. Specific movement blocks are used in these types of sequences.

Three MOST Activity Sequences

• General Move Sequence: For free movements through the air.
• Controlled Move Sequence: Object remains in contact or attached during movement.
• Tool Use Sequence: For using common hand tools.

Why MOST?

• It's significantly faster than traditional time study methods (e.g., Basic MOST is 40 times faster than MTM-1).
• It typically achieves high accuracy (up to 95%).
• It requires less documentation for recording.

Remember TMUs?

• Therbligs' time is measured in Time Measurement Units (TMUs).
• 1 TMU = 0.00001 hour, 0.0006 minute, or 0.036 second.
• Conversion factors exist for converting hours, minutes, and seconds to TMUs.

Sequence Models

• Sequence models list the sub-activities within various activities in MOST.

MOST Study Form - Calculation

• Templates detail aspects of a MOST study.
• The form features data fields for recording different activities using various components within a sequence.