In logistics, ergonomic optimizations are of central importance for the design of efficient work processes and warehouse structures. The targeted adaptation of workstations and logistics processes according to ergonomic principles can not only minimize physical strain, but also increase employee productivity and satisfaction.
Although the topic of ergonomics enjoys great popularity, it is often associated only with working conditions at the office workplace. However, workplaces in logistics or production, for example, are just as affected. Here, for example, many repacking and packaging processes take place. Experienced employees can be kept in the processes longer by optimizing ergonomics. Motion-Mining® technology uses digital ergonomics analyses to support companies in evaluating the compatibility of people and technology. For a digital ergonomics analysis, the activities performed and the requirements for the user, the equipment used and the knowledge used are considered, among other things.
Ergonomics optimization within the MotionMining® solution approach reveals hidden potential. The solution approach, based on ergonomics optimization, allows an assessment of manual work with wearables (wearable sensors, similar to fitness trackers) and a deep learning algorithm, better known as artificial intelligence. Work processes are, during the ergonomics analysis automatically and anonymously captured for subsequent optimization (ergonomics), processed by artificial intelligence and converted into human-readable metrics. Currently, we distinguish between more than 60 different motion sequences in our ergonomics analysis/optimization. Critical movements such as bending from the back, carrying, lifting, holding, overhead activities are considered in ergonomics optimization. These movements are recorded in movement intervals, during ergonomics analysis and optimization (ergonomics). In addition to typical movements, vibrations and repetitions can also be detected during ergonomics optimization. Based on the data from the ergonomics analysis, overloads and permanent stresses can be detected and measures for avoidance and optimization (ergonomics) can be derived.
Usually, such efficiency and ergonomics analyses, such as MTM, REFA or Leitmerkmalmethode, are performed manually. These methods for ergonomics optimization are thus extremely time-consuming, specific and require a deeper understanding of the process. Traditionally, these efficiency and ergonomics analyses for optimization (ergonomics) are recorded, for example, and then evaluated by a trained process engineer using a stopwatch and clipboard. Since the process engineer accompanies an individual employee throughout the entire duration of the efficiency and ergonomics analyses for optimization (ergonomics) and uses photo or video analyses, among other things, for documentation, such an ergonomics optimization is fundamentally not anonymous. In contrast, efficiency and ergonomics analyses for optimization (ergonomics) with motion mining are anonymous throughout the entire recording period and the subsequent analysis. When evaluating an analysis for ergonomics optimization, only average values are used, i.e. at least two data tracks are evaluated.
The gripping zone must be considered when preparing the material.
In addition, the idea that this is associated with some form of employee wellness is another common misconception. It is up to ergonomics to define meaningful steps that can be taken to perform the job more effectively. Based on this, the following can be concluded: 1.) Responsible, carefully thought-out optimization (ergonomics) combines improved productivity and the necessary protection of employees. 2.) In view of the diverse interrelationships of manual activities in industrial production, the consistent implementation of ergonomic principles at this point is urgently recommended.
In production, both the company and all employees benefit from ergonomic workplace design. When performing their work in an ergonomic work environment, fatigue and health risks are significantly reduced. As a result, productivity is increased, whereas the frequency of errors decreases. It also favors a reduction in the number of days of absence due to illness.
But at what point should optimization (ergonomics) be sought in production? For example, let's look at sitting, a classic of ergonomics, at the beginning. But whether sitting actually represents the new smoking or not remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that incorrect sitting posture has been shown to cause long-term health problems. It is important to always look for the best quality when selecting suitable chairs.
For example, today's work chair must be individually adjustable through continuous adjustability so that the back is protected. Employees should be able to make this adjustment directly while seated. This is the only way to determine the extent to which the selected setting is actually the correct one. Additional quality features for a chair at the workplace in the industry are, for example, seat cushion, solid, easy-care support, synchronous mechanism, adjustable lumbar support.
However, when performing work at a work table that does not ergonomically meet the desired requirements, the best work chair loses its effectiveness. It is therefore imperative that the height of a work table can also be adjusted (electrically). The optimum grip position in production is only achieved through the interaction of the individually adapted work chair and the work table. Sufficient freedom of movement and a solid table design complete the requirement profile with regard to an optimal ergonomic work surface.
The grip area plays a particularly important role when it comes to planning materials and making them available. The two-handed zone is located directly in front of the worker on his or her table. As long as the worker is able to grip equipment and materials without problems and without turning, this is defined as the one-hand zone. Due to the fact that it is determined by body proportions and size, gripping zones vary from person to person. Personal adaptation is therefore also necessary for efficient work processes. Swivel arms are ideally suited here, so that frequently required materials and aids can be made available in an ideal manner. The result is shortened access options, which reduces throughput times and improves productivity while reducing the workload on employees.
Measures for ergonomic optimization include, for example, the correct placement of products in order picking. This can reduce the strain on employees by reducing bending and overhead work. Optimal route planning, so that excessively long walking distances can be reduced, is also a typical measure for ergonomics optimization. When optimizing (ergonomics) walking routes, an increase in efficiency analysis takes place at the same time. Efficiency and ergonomics optimization are often carried out simultaneously.
Seamlessly integrate our Motion-Mining® hardware into your work processes to capture activity and motion data from your employees and vehicles. Evaluate them visually with our AI-powered MPI software.
Record the movements of your employees and vehicles anonymously with our convenient wearables.
Visualize the measured data with our MotionMiners PROCESS INTELLIGENCE software (MPI for short).
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