Lean-Based Integrated Approach for Manual Work Design Optimization in Modular Construction
Publication: Construction Research Congress 2022
ABSTRACT
Well-designed manual work operations are critical to enhancing the productivity and safety of modular construction production lines. Thus, it is essential to analyze current work procedures, and then design the safest and most efficient work methods accordingly. However, what is lacking is an approach for identifying optimal work methods based on consideration, simultaneously, of several design criteria, such as workplace configurations, task time, and ergonomic risk. Furthermore, existing perception-based methods are not conducive to a careful examination of the trade-off between safety and efficiency for different work scenarios. To overcome these limitations, this paper proposes an integrated approach to manual work design optimization in modular construction. This is accomplished by coupling Lean manufacturing tools and statistical analysis of the design of experiments (DOE) with 3D-based ergonomic posture assessment and Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS). As a case study, a drywall sanding task in a modular construction production line is designed. The results indicate the effectiveness of the proposed method to investigate multiple scenarios and thereby achieve optimum design.
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Construction Research Congress 2022
Pages: 335 - 344
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Published online: Mar 7, 2022
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