Modelling strain of manual work in manufacturing systems

Without the use of simulation methods and technology complex logistical issues can only be dealt with insufficiently. While current research concentrates on technological aspects in the improvement of system behaviour, vital tasks in the field of production and logistics despite of increasing automation are undoubtedly assigned to human resources. Present simulation instruments are not or just rarely considering manual activities within the simulation process. The project EMSIG, supported by the BMFT (German Ministry for Research and Technology), builds up a model for the description of manual loads that can be effectively used in planning logistic systems. The author considers how simulation models with detailed worker description support the user in evaluating a manufacturing system in terms of ergonomic and economic aspects in the planning process.