A methodology for systemic-structural analysis and design of manual-based manufacturing operations

The main objective of this study was to develop a method for systemic-struc tural analysis and design of manufacturing assembly operations based on the activity theory. The "activity" was defined as behavior distinctively spec ific to workers, associated with mobilizations and realization of conscious manufacturing goals. The fundamental units of analysis of activity are act ions that are both motor and mental. Activity is considered as a complicate d structure of actions that are logically ordered in space and time. Each a ction is comprised of different operations. The building blocks of motor ac tions are motions. The building blocks of cognitive actions are mental oper ations. 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. (C) 2001 John W iley and Sons, Inc.