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A methodology for systemic‐structural analysis and design of manual‐based manufacturing operations
Author(s) -
Bedny Gregory,
Karwowski Waldemar,
Kwon YoungGuk
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
human factors and ergonomics in manufacturing and service industries
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.408
H-Index - 39
eISSN - 1520-6564
pISSN - 1090-8471
DOI - 10.1002/hfm.1012
Subject(s) - realization (probability) , action (physics) , cognition , mental operations , computer science , manufacturing engineering , industrial engineering , process management , engineering , operations management , psychology , mathematics , statistics , physics , quantum mechanics , neuroscience
Abstract The main objective of this study was to develop a method for systemic‐structural analysis and design of manufacturing assembly operations based on the activity theory. The “activity” was defined as behavior distinctively specific to workers, associated with mobilizations and realization of conscious manufacturing goals. The fundamental units of analysis of activity are actions that are both motor and mental. Activity is considered as a complicated structure of actions that are logically ordered in space and time. Each action is comprised of different operations. The building blocks of motor actions are motions. The building blocks of cognitive actions are mental operations. Activity integrates not merely cognitive and behavioral components, but the energy components as well. The proposed methodology is illustrated using an example of two manufacturing assembly operations. © 2001 John Wiley and Sons, Inc.