New MPS rates lean production and ergonomics equal

Tectra Automation recently installed a Manual Production System (MPS) for Crane Payment Solutions, in answer to its requirement for a leaner, more ergonomic work system.

“Constant worldwide cost pressures in manufacturing have led to a mounting need for increased productivity. Economic success does not only depend on lean, waste-free processes, but also on ergonomically-designed work systems that allow employees to do their jobs in comfort, while eliminating waste,” says Greg Calder, Product Manager Linear Motion and Assembly Technologies, Tectra Automation.

MPS makes it easy to construct custom workstations, material shuttles or flow racks for a complete, easy-to-use lean manufacturing design system. This system allows manufacturing and plant engineers to implement any degree of lean production by detecting and avoiding the seven types of waste, ensure that no space is wasted and that ergonomic principles are built-in for optimum working conditions.

In developing the MPS, Bosch Rexroth took inspiration from and based its design on the Japanese Kaizen or Kan Ban principles, as well as the eight ground rules for workplace systems to offer a complete range of “Ergonomic Furniture”.

“Good ergonomics support the value chain and reduce waste, and we are therefore very proud that our MPS for Crane Payment Solutions has been endorsed by Ergomax, a leading ergonomics-human factors consultancy in Africa,” says Calder.

Esmeralda Kerlen, Manager, Ergomax, explains: “Worldwide, there is a shift towards recognising the importance of ergonomic workstations and systems. Furthermore, occupational health and safety legislation is forcing manufacturers and employers to take cognisance of its significance. Not only does ergonomic furniture or equipment boost productivity, it also makes the working environment more comfortable and pleasant for the employee, which facilitates employee wellbeing and contributes to the bottom line. Taking ergonomics into account from the design phase is more cost-efficient. Thus, manufacturers are increasingly considering ergonomics from the outset.”

Enthusing about the value the MPS has added to its process, Markus Prader, Director of Business Development Africa, Crane Payment Solutions, says: “Comprising of grab bins and production storage areas in our repair division, the MPS has allowed us to minimise errors and has improved overall handling. This will benefit our customers in the long run, enabling us to deliver a higher quality service. In addition, our employees are more motivated, efficient and satisfied.”