Motion Study: These motions are productively used in workplace to organize a better

method of performing a job. ... According to Gilbreth, “Motion study is the science of
eliminating wastefulness, resulting from using unnecessary, ill directed and
inefficient motion.”

What is the principle of motion analysis?

Every work consists of some motion. These motions are productively used in
workplace to organize a better method of performing a job. According to Gilbreth,
“Motion study is the science of eliminating wastefulness, resulting from using
unnecessary, ill directed and inefficient motion.”

What is Simo chart?

“SIMO” stands for simultaneous-Motion Cycle chart. It. is one of micro motion study
devised by Gilbreth and it presents graphically the separable steps of each pertinent
limb of the operator under study. It is an extremely detailed left and right hand
operation chart.

What is Simo chart used for?

SIMO is an acronym for Simultaneous-Motion Cycle. The chart is used in conjunction
with Therbligs to study the detailed activity of a worker, to capture how long the
operation takes, and what activities are being performed by each hand.

What are the advantages of using a simultaneous-motion cycle chart SIMO )?

A SIMO chart is beneficial since it allows very accurate and detailed analysis. The
work cycle form the film can be studied, easily, peacefully and away from the disturbing
surroundings of the actual work station.

SIMO (Simultaneous-Motion
Cycle) Chart: Meaning, Method to
Improve and Construction
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SIMO (Simultaneous-Motion Cycle) Chart: Meaning, Method
to Improve and Construction!
“SIMO” stands for simultaneous-Motion Cycle chart. It is one of micro
motion study devised by Gilbreth and it presents graphically the
separable steps of each pertinent limb of the operator under study. It
is an extremely detailed left and right hand operation chart.

It records simultaneously the different therbligs performed by

different parts of the body of one more operators on a common time
scale. The movements are recorded against time measured in “Winks”
(1 wink= 1/2000 minute). These are recorded by a “Wink Counter”
positioned in such a location that it can be seen rotating during
filming process.

Improving the present method:

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Therbligs in the SIMO chart are critically examined to

explore the possibility of:
(i) Removing or eliminating the unproductive Therbligs such as find,
select and avoidable delay etc.

(ii) Resequencing of the productive therbligs such as assemble and

disassemble etc.

A micro motion study analysis sheet or a left hand-right chart is drawn

in Fig. 4.12 for the following information’s.

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Operation: Finish hand filing copper work piece.

Time for searching, lifting and holding work piece to the vice.

Table by left hand = 0.2 min

Time for opening the vice by right hand = 0.2 min

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Holding the work piece in the vice with both hands = 0.4 min

Time taken for lifting and holding file by right hand = 0.2 min

Time taken for hand filing with both hands = 1.00 min

Time for bringing the micrometer by right hand = 0.2 min

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Time taken in checking dimension with both hands = 0.8 min

Time for opening the vice by right hand = 0.2 min

Time taken in removing work piece with left hand = 0.2 min

Micro motion Study

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Dept……………………………………………. Film No……………….

Analysis Sheet
Operation: Finish hand fillings
Charted By……………….

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Date………………………………………………………………………………..
Operator…………………

Construction of “SIMO” Chart:

The SIMO chart for left hand and right hand analysis sheet inform
about the degree of participation of both the hands. The time for each
Therblig recorded on the analysis sheet may be shown to scale by
means of a SIMO chart. Either the SIMO chart may be prepared
independently or the chart may be constructed from the data available
on the analysis sheet.

SIMO CHART (Corresponding to Fig. 4.12)

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Department: …………………………………. Film No…………………

Operation: Finish hand filling

Charted By……………..

Date……………………………………………………………………………….
Operator………………..

A SIMO chart is beneficial since it allows very accurate and detailed

analysis. The work cycle form the film can be studied, easily,
peacefully and away from the disturbing surroundings of the actual
work station. SIMO chart is critically examined in order to grasp a
picture of complete cycle in total details and assists in working out
better combination of the desired motions.

For improving the methods following procedure is followed:

(i) The places in the workstation having non productive Therbligs such
as search, select position and plan etc. are re-examined with a view to
eliminate these basic elements as far as possible.

(ii) Attention is concentrated towards productive Therbligs like

transport loaded, disassemble, assemble and use etc., which may be
re-sequenced in order to reduce total cycle time and fatigue incurred
to the operators.
(iii) Laws of Motion Economy help in improving the existing technique
of performing an operation.

Principles of motion economy

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The principles of motion economy form a set of rules and suggestions to improve the
manual work in manufacturing and reduce fatigue and unnecessary movements by the
worker, which can lead to the reduction in the work related trauma.
The principles of motion economy can be classified into four groups: [1][2]

1. Principles related to the use of human body,

2. Principles related to the arrangement of the work place,
3. Principles related to the design of tools and equipment.
4. Principles related to time conservation.
Use of Human Body[edit]

• The two hands should begin motions at the same time.

• The two hands should not be idle at the same time except during rest periods.
• Motions of the arms should be made in opposite and symmetrical directions and should be
made simultaneously
• Hand motions should be confined to the lowest classification with which it is possible to perform
the work satisfactorily:

1. Finger motions
2. Wrist motions
3. Forearm motions
4. Upper arm motions
5. Shoulder motions

• Momentum should be employed to assist the worker whenever possible, and it should be
reduced to a minimum if it must be overcome by muscular effort.
• Smooth continuous motions of the hands are preferable to zigzag motions or straight-line
motions involving sudden and sharp changes in direction.
• Ballistic (i.e. free swinging) movements are faster, easier and more accurate than restricted
or controlled movements.
Arrangement of the Work Place[edit]

• There should be a definite and fixed place for all tools and materials.
• Tools, materials, and controls should be located close in and directly in front of the operator.
• Drop delivers should be used whenever possible.
• Materials and tools should be located to permit the best sequence of motions.
• Arrange the height of the workplace and chair for alternate sitting and standing, when
possible.
 • Provide a chair of the type and height to permit good posture.
Design of Tools and Equipment[edit]

• Combine tools whenever possible.

• Preposition tools and materials.
• Where each finger performs some specific movement, the load should be distributed in
accordance with the inherent capacities of the fingers.
• For light assembly, a screwdriver handle should be smaller at the bottom.
• Momentum should be used to help the worker in doing their task not to increase their task.
Time Conservation[edit]

• Even a temporary delay of work by a man or machine should not be encouraged.

• Machine should not run idle, it is not desirable that a lathe machine is running and its job is
rotating but no cut is being taken.
• Two or more jobs should be worked upon at the same time or two or more operations should
be carried out on a job simultaneously if possible.
• Number of motion involved in completing a job should be minimized.
Meaning of Motion Study:
In this field, pioneering work was done by Frank B. Gilbreth and his
wife Lillian M. Gilbreth, around 1910, with the name of Motion Study.
Frank Gilbreth. The real founder of motion study as science, defined
motion study as the “science of eliminating wastefulness
resulting from ill- directed and in-efficient motions”. The aim
of motion study is to find the scheme of least wastage of labour.
Later on the scope of Motion Study was enlarged and it was named as
Method Study. Method Study is a technique which analyses each
operation of a given piece of work very closely in order to eliminate
unnecessary operations and to approach the quickest and easiest
method of performing each necessary operation. It includes the
standardization of equipment, methods and working conditions, and
training of the operator to follow the standard method.

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Sometimes method study can also be defined as “systematic

recording and critical examination of existing and proposed
ways of doing work as a means of developing and applying
easier and more effective method and thereby reducing
cost.”
From the above definition, it is clear that the method study is
concerned with the development of efficient and economical work
methods. Proper development of these methods calls for the
cooperative efforts of design engineer, process engineer and method
analyst.

There is a continuing need for analyzing existing methods as the best

methods today may not necessarily remain the best method after some
period. Subsequent investigations may reveal that more economical
materials are available, most efficient machines, tool, jigs and fixtures
have been designed, better inspection methods have been evolved,
more efficient material handling equipment is now available and so
on. Therefore, there is always scope for improvement of existing
methods.

Aims (Objectives) of Motion Study:

Some important aims of the motion study are:
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1. To eliminate wastage of time and labour.

2. To reduce fatigue and boredom of work by avoiding unnecessary

movements.

3. To find the best way of doing & job,

4. To have more effective utilisation of materials, machines and

workers.

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5. To improve the design of work place layout.

6. To standardise the method, obtained after conducting the motion

study.

7. To train the individual worker for its practice as per standardised

method.
Procedure for Motion Study:
Motion study can be performed in the following steps:
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Step I: Break Up the Operation of the Job:

Make a detailed list of all operations in the present method of
manufacturing a job. All the material handling, machine work, and
hand work are also included in this detail.

Step II: Question Each Detail of the Job:

Following questions should be asked on himself by the motion study
engineer about the way in which these operations are to be performed,
and about the tools and equipment’s needed. The procedure of this
questioning is known as ‘Critical Examination’.

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Questions are asked on the following five points:

(i) Purpose:
What is the purpose of this operation? Does this fulfill the
requirements? and whether this can be eliminated?

(ii) Place:
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Where is the best place to do this operation?

(iii) Sequence:
What is the best time to do this operation and whether it can be done
at the same time as before or at any other better time? When will it be
more suitable and economical?

(iv) Person:
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Who will do this operation? Who can do it in a better way?

(v) Means:
Flow this operation can be performed, i.e. which machines and tools
are to be used? Can we make the work more easier and safer for both
worker and equipment?

Step III: Develop a New Method:

After considering the above questions, a new better method is
developed.

Apart from the above considerations, before finalising the

new method, the following facts should also be thought over
during the motion study:
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Elimination:
Every operation or detail of the job should be thought that whether it
can be eliminated without any harm.

Combining:
In this aspect, it is to be observed that whether two or more operations
can be combined without any adverse effect to save operation time.

Rearrangement:
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If rearrangement in the sequence of operations help in simplification

or in any other aspect then it should be done.

For example, in a factory main sequence of operations was:

(a) Assembling

(b) Storage

(c) Inspection

(d) Dispatching.

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In this sequence, inspection was carried before dispatching and
defective components were being sent back to department for
correction.

After sometime, it felt that storage before inspection yields

unnecessary more material handling and internal transportation of
defective components. It can be avoided, if inspection is carried out
before sending the products for storage.

Then this sequence of operations is rearranged as follows:

(a) Assembling

(b) Inspection

(c) Storage

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(d) Dispatching.

Simplify. In simplification, it is found that if the operation is possible

with any other easy, safe and economical method that should be
adopted.

The work can also be simplified by:

(a) Placing the materials, tools and equipment’s at proper working
area.

(b) Using gravity feed hoppers and other material handling

equipment.

(c) Taking useful work by both hands.

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(d) Using special jigs and fixtures.

Step IV: Installing the New Method:

After having developed the method, this is required to install. The new
method must first be got approved from the supervisors, workers and
management. Then the workers must be trained to work according to
this new method and their habits must be developed to follow the
correct way. For some-time, close contacts must be maintained with
the progress of the job until it runs satisfactorily.

Step V: Maintaining new Method:

Once a method is installed, it should be maintained in its specified
form, and not allowed to slip back to old form or introduction of any
other unauthorised changes.

For proper maintenance, following steps are advised:

(i) Copies of the job instruction sheets should be distributed to all
concern. These sheets must supply the detail for setting up the job and
proper operation.

(ii) Routine checks are necessary to compare what is actually being

done against the job instruction sheets.

(iii) Selection and training of persons must be done according to the

job specifications for this new method.

Micromotion Method of Motion Study:

Some motions require very small time and it is difficult to measure
time for these motions accurately but the time required by these
motions cannot be neglected because they are repeated hundreds of
time.

Therefore, the motions are taken on picture films with the help of
picture camera. Very small time upto 0.0005 minute can be measured
by this system. When picture camera is used, the procedure is known
as “Micromotion Study”.

This method gives very accurate analysis of the product but being a
costly, it is used when products are likely to continue for a long time.
Micromotion study has the following important advantages:
(i) It provides permanent record of motion study with the help of
films.

(ii) A large number of workers can see the procedure at any time even
after the completion of motion study work.

(iii) Differences in the old and new methods can be demonstrated, if

both are filmed.

(iv) Films can be demonstrated at any desired speed.

(v) It gives very accurate time for each motion or operation than that
noted by the stopwatch.

Elements of Therbligs Process of Motion Study:

Frank Gilberth developed a set of 17 elementary motions commonly
found in manual operations and called them “Therbligs”, reverse
spelling of his name. We know that motion study is used for deciding
the best way of doing work for which present and proposed methods
are observed by experts by recording on charts.

For the purpose of recording the motions, he splitted up different

motions of process into 17 fundamental elements made by various
members of human body and each event was allotted a symbol and
letter abbreviation. These symbols and abbreviations are used for
preparing motion study charts. To maximise the utility of Charts
sometimes colour codes are also used.

Table showing 17 therbligs with their explanation is given

below:
Present Symbols of Motion Study:
The symbols developed by Gilbreth are much in number and mostly all
are not used in motion study.
Therefore, motions were further reduced and now-a-days
motions and symbols, which are used commonly shown in
the Table given below:

In conclusion, some of the important tools and techniques of method

study have been explained and these are found to be very much useful
for the quick production and to reduce overhead expenses.

Cyclegraph and Chronocycle Graph used in Motion Study:

As an aid for micromotion study, Gilbreth also developed (i)
cyclegraph and (ii) chronocycle graphic techniques for the study of the
motion path of an operator’s hand or finger.

Cyclegraph:
A small electric bulb is attached to the finger, hand or other part of the
body of the operator and it is photographed to record the path of the
motion. With a still camera, the path of light so photographed, is
called a cyclegraph.

Chronocyclegraph:
If an interrupter is placed in the electric circuit with the bulb and the
light is flashed quickly and off slowly, then the path of bulb in the
photograph will appear as a dotted line with pear shaped dots
indicating the direction of motion.

The space between the dots will be according to the speed of the hand
or finger of the body. Size and shape of the pear shaped dot will show
whether body part is in acceleration or in retardation. The number of
dots will give the time taken by that motion and the technique is called
a chronocyclegraph.

Principles of Motion Study:

Only a best method of performing a job is not only with minimum
expenditure but certain other rules or principles should be observed
for increasing the speed to achieve more economy in production.
Basically, there are 26 principles of motion economy.

Although they all are not applied to every operation but form basis or a
code for improving the efficiency and reducing fatigue in manual
work.

(A) Principles related to the use of the “Human Body”.

(B) Principles related to “arrangement of the work place”.

(C) Principles related to the “Design of Tools and Equipment”.

(A) Principles Related to the Use of the “Human Body”:

1. Both hands should start as well as complete their motions at the
same time.

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

3. Use both hands simultaneously and use best motion sequence.

4. Hand motions should be confined to the lowest possible

classifications in order to reduce fatigue.
These are listed in the order of giving least fatigue and
maximum economy:
First—Finger motions.

Second—Finger and wrist motions.

Third—Finger, wrist and lower arm motions.

Fourth—Finger, wrist, lower arm and upper arm motions.

Fifth—Finger, wrist, lower arm, upper arm and body motions.

5. Utilise momentum to assist the worker, wherever possible.

6. Smooth continuous motions produce less fatigue in comparison to

zig-zag or straight line motions involving sudden and sharp change in
direction.

7. Ballistic movements are faster, easier and more accurate than

controlled movements.

8. Sequence of motions should be arranged to build rhythm and

automaticity into the operation. For example, practically everybody
opens and closes his shirt buttons without thinking, using definite
recurring movements. It is performed with positive rhythm and
automaticity.

9. Hands should be relieved of all work that can be done by feet or

other parts of the body.

(B) Principles Related to the Arrangement of the Work

Place:
1. All tools and materials should be placed at a definite and fixed place
with easy reach.

2. All tools, materials and actuating devices should be placed in front

of the operator at a distance as near as possible.
3. Provide gravity feed bins and use power or gravity conveyors to
transport materials.

4. Wherever possible use drop deliveries. Drop delivery means

dropping the article into a chute or on a conveyer as near to the point
of assembly as possible so that gravity assists rather than the hands to
reach the part to its required place.

5. Tools and material should be located in such a way as to achieve the

best sequence of motions.

6. Illuminate the work places properly for adequate seeing and visual
perception.

7. Provide proper working tables, stools and chairs, etc., because to

work in standing or sitting position on floor consumes more time and
energy.

8. The height of the work place and chair etc., should be such that
worker can either sit or stand comfortably.

9. Chairs provided should make good posture.

10. Keep the shops in good order, neat and clean.

(C) Principles Related to the Design of Tools and Equipment:

1. The hands should not be used for work that can be done more
advantageously with the help of devices.

Therefore, following devices should be used to reduce

manual work and to free both the hands as far as possible:
(a) Use power operated tools and equipment;

(b) Use vices, jigs and fixtures etc.;

(c) Use stops, guides etc.;

(d) Use foot pedals.

2. Reduced noise increases speed of work and requires less energy.

3. Wherever practicable, tools and materials should be prepositioned

to reduce search, find and the select operations.

4. Wherever possible two or more tools should be combined.

5. Handles on tools and cranks should be designed to permit

maximum contact with the hands, particularly where force is applied,
such as in a screw driver, plier, scrapper etc.

6. When each finger performs some specific movement, such as in type

writing, the load should be distributed in accordance with the inherent
capacities of the fingers.

7. The location of levers, cross bars and hand wheels, etc. should be so
decided that the operator can operate with the least change in body
position and with greatest mechanical advantage.

Tools and Techniques of Method Study:

1. Operation Chart (Fig 52.1):
This is a graphic representation of the sequence of all operations and
inspections involved in the process. In this chart, all components or
materials entry points are indicated by the horizontal lines and the
processing of these materials are shown vertically. Operation process
charts provide a compact overall view of the whole system of
operations involved in the manufacture of a product.
For drawing the operation charts, final assembly operations are
generally written on the right hand side of the paper. A horizontal line
is then drawn at the top of the vertical line denoting the sequence of
operations and inspections to represent the starting material. Above
this horizontal line, part number (if any) and the name of the item is
given, and below the line material size is mentioned.

Standard time for each operation is mentioned on the left hand side of
its symbol while a brief description of the operation is given on the
right hand side. When another part is assembled, a horizontal line is
drawn into the vertical line just above the operation symbol repre-
senting the assembly.

The operations and inspections required for the manufacture of the

part are then put above this line in the form of column in sequence.
Thus additional columns are introduced, for each part assembled, in
the left with a horizontal line connecting the main assembly column.

When purchased parts are used in the assembly, a horizontal line is

drawn at proper place in the assembly column and parts number and
name is given above the line, while the name of the manufacturing
company from whom it is procured is given below this line.

After all, the sequence of symbols for operation must be numbered.

Each type of symbol has its own (separate) sequence of numbers.
Numbering starts at the upper right hand corner of the chart, i.e. from
top of the main assembly column and proceed downwards until a
horizontal line comes into the column.

Then the symbols on this line from top to downwards are measured,
this follows till this line joins the main assembly column and so on,
and till all the symbols are numbered. Operation process chart for the
manufacturing of an electric bulb is given in the Fig. 52.1.

2. Flow Process Chart:

This is a graphic representation of operation, transportation,
inspection, delays and storage occurring during production. This also
gives the information regarding distances moved and time required
for different items such as transportation, delays and inspection etc.

It is usually prepared for one component of an assembly at a time.

After preparing this chart, an analyst applies motion study and
proposes a new method for doing the same job.

The flow process charts are used for improvement in productivity and
quality. Flow process charts provide an excellent form of
documentation for a process is useful for examining as to how various
steps in a process work together. These are operation (0); Inspection
(□) Transport (=>); Delay (D); and storage (▽).

A good flowchart should show all process steps under analysis, critical
process points for control, suggest areas for further improvement and
help explain and solve a problem.

Flow process chart for vulcanising tyres is given here. The first step in
preparing this chart is filling out of the headings. Each activity is listed
in order as the job is following through the plant and notations are
made as shown in examples.

The symbols in such charts are short hand tools and serve as sign
posts to make critical areas for improvement. In this way, by preparing
Flow Process Chart, a process or a job can be analysed step by step.
Activities can be eliminated in some cases, combined in others, rear-
ranged for more effective processing or simplified. The proposed new
method is also drawn in the chart shown at Fig. 52.2.
Flow process charts are of following two types:
(i) Flow Process Chart—Product Analysis:
This chart is based on product analysis. This is a graphic
representation of different steps involved in performing the work
required to convert a product from one stage to another.
(ii) Flow Process Chart—Man Analysis:
This chart is based on man analysis. This is a graphic representation of
different steps a person performs when doing a job and his move-
ments from one place to another in performing that job. Until and
unless clearly mentioned, flow process chart refers to that of flow
process chart based on Product Analysis.

3. Flow Diagram:
It is the plan view of a work to a certain scale and a line diagram
indicating the path followed by the object under study. This gives an
overall view of an existing or proposed process and is used for making
improvement. It shows the path followed by the material, man or
equipment. Where more than one floor is involved, an isometric
drawing can be used (Fig. 52.3).

Normally the “Flow Diagram” should also accompany the Flow

Process Chart.

Flow Process Charts and Flow diagrams are very simple and effective
tools of method study. They are very useful in establishing the overall
sequence of operations and in determining the best layout for an
economical and effective flow of materials. They present a clear
picture of a process and are very effective tools for studying and
improving a complex job.

By systematically examining these charts, improvement can be made

on the methods of production, sequence of operation and layout etc.
Thus, work can be reduced, time can be saved and expenses can be
cut.

Fig. 52.2 is a Flow Process chart for vulcanising tyres and Fig. 52.4 is a
Flow Diagram of the existing methods. From the study of these two,
Fig. 52.5 shows a proposed Flow Diagram.
For charting these diagrams, keeping in mind the principles of Motion
Economy, the first step is to record the existing methods being used
for vulcanising of tyres. For this purpose, a Flow Process chart has
been charted and flow diagrams have also been made. Now an ideal
procedure or process will have maximum number of operations during
course of action.
After going through the Flow Process chart, it becomes clear that there
is much of transportation between different operations. So to make
things more clear, a flow diagram is charted and it clearly shows the
distance travelled by a tyre which is being repaired.

After critically examining the Flow Process chart and Flow Diagram,
critically an alternative improved layout has been developed. It
involves the movement of only two small machines which are flexible
and mobile, therefore their movement will not be a problem at all.
Further a gate is proposed with the central wall. This will not only
reduce the distance travelled by a tyre but will also enable to simplify
the things and reduce fatigue.

Now comparing the present and proposed Flow diagrams,

we get the following results:
Repairing of tyres

Distance travelled by each tyre = 87 m (Existing)

= 43 m (Proposed)

Savings = 44 m

4. String Diagram:
This diagram is a layout drawing on which a length of string is used to
record the extent as well as the pattern of movement of a worker or
piece of equipment working within a limited area during a certain
period of time. It is used to study where the journeys are irregular in
distance and frequency, otherwise it will be difficult to assess exactly,
what is happening.

It is used to investigate movement in the following

situations:
1. When a group of operators is working.

2. When a single operator is attending several machines.

3. In processes, where several sub-assemblies has to be moved to other
assembly.

4. Where processes require the operator to be moved from one work

place to smother.

5. For checking the relative values of various layouts.

Construction:
To construct a diagram, study is made for the movements in the task
concerned and every journey involved in the performance of the work
is recorded on the study sheet.

The proforma of which is given below:

From the study sheet, a scale layout drawing is prepared of the area to
which the recorded moves have taken place. The drawing should
include building features such as walls and doorways, block plans of
machinery and other equipment’s installed nearby the route, whether
or not it is actually concerned with the job or equipment being studied.

This complete drawing should then be attached to a sheet of plywood

or composition board and panel pins shown in the String Diagram Fig.
52.6 driven into it at each of the terminal points observed during the
study. It will also be necessary for additional pins to be driven in,
where the direction of moves between these points changes.

Now a strong thread is tied to the starting point pin and by reference
to the study, taken round each of the terminal points on the drawing in
the sequence in which they were visited. The pins placed at corners
along the route enable the thread to follow on the diagram, a path very
similar to that actually taken while the study was made. In this way, it
is possible to record on the diagram any number of journeys between
any number of points.

Fig. 52.6 shows the string diagram recording the journey of a

laboratory assistant in performing a day’s work.

5. Man-Machine Chart:
This chart describes graphically the activity of a man and machine he
is attending against a time scale. When a shop has a number of
operators and machines, studies can be made to find what number of
machines each worker can operate or how many workers can work on
each machine.
During the machining cycle of many semi-automatic machines, the
operator has time in which he can run one or more other semi-
automatic machines. In this way, such charts enable the management
to minimise the idle time of the worker and to use the machines to
their full capacity.

For example, suppose there are three workers and each worker is
doing the same operations on his machine. Suppose that the time to
set up a machine cycle is 0.50 minute and machining time taken is
0.75 minute.

Fig. 52.7 shows the ease ill which one worker operate one machine.

From Fig. 52.7, it is very clear for each operation that the worker is
idle for 0.75 minute, when the machine is running. Its alternative can
be to put two machines and let allow one worker to work on both of
them.
This case is shown in Fig. 52.8.

In this case, the worker still remains idle for 0.25 minute in each
operation. So in order to minimise this, let us allow one worker to
work on three machines. This is shown in Fig. 52.9.

In this case, the worker would have no idle time, except for necessary
personal and fatigue allowances, but each machine would be ideal for
0.35 minute after each operation. Now, therefore, the problem is,
which of the alternatives would be economical ? For this purpose, the
unit cost of idle time of one worker and the unit cost of idle time of
each machine is estimated and then the economical alternative is
calculated.

Operation Analysis:
Where workers do their job independently, management requires to
know whether they are doing job, in the most efficient way or not. The
purpose of operation analysis is to determine a simpler and more
economical way of doing a job, by analysing the job and the individual
motions of workers.

Here, a close study of the work of individual worker is made to

determine a better method of performing his job. To do this, operation
analysis is applied. In this, the steps in a job and the motions used by
the worker to perform these steps are recorded. In this study,
principles of Motion Economy are applied. Using these principles as
guide, a better and more economical method of performing an
operation is developed.

To aid this technique, Left-hand/Right-hand chart (Two-hand chart)

and Simo Chart are used. These are shown in Figs. 52.10 and 52.11.
The purpose of constructing these charts is to point out unbalanced
work situations between the two hands so that these situations can be
corrected, thereby reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.

After constructing these chart, we question each step. Can a motion be

eliminated or simplified? Can we eliminate or reduce transportation?
Can we delay? Can holding be eliminated by using a jig or fixture and
so on. Thus questioning each activity and applying the principles of
“Motion Economy”, manual work can be improved.

6. Two-Hand Chart:
This is also known as Left-hand/Right-hand chart and is used to
improve the motion sequence of an operator. The chart is used to
minimise the unnecessary motions and to arrange the remaining
motions in an economical way. The chart is prepared after studying
the working place, arrangement of the worker and of the equipment
while he is working.

Some of the operations like assembling of small instruments such as

pressure gauge, carburetor, time piece and fuel pump etc. where both
hands are used for placing the different components of the article,
Left-hand/Right-hand Charts are prepared. The study of the chart
gives the clear picture of defective arrangement of tools, incorrect
motion sequence and unnecessary and defective motion etc.

A Left-hand/Right-hand chart for the assembling of pressure gauge is

shown in the Table at Fig. 52.10.

7. Simo (Simultaneous Motion) Chart:

This is similar to Table at Fig. 52.10. “Two-hand Chart” with the
difference that the time required for each motion is drawn to scale
with the vertical axis and sometimes coloured to represent the
particular motion.

The procedure to construct this chart is as under:

A spring powered camera with high speed clock is placed near the
work place and is used to record the film time and the operator’s
actions simultaneously. After recording, the film is worked and
processed and viewed to determine the motions performed and time
taken.
From these records, activities and time taken are plotted in
the form of Simo Chart as shown below: