Methods-Time Measurement (MTM-1)
Methods-Time Measurement, commonly referred to as MTM-1, is a predetermined motion time system (PMTS) used in industrial engineering to analyze the methods used to perform any manual operation or task. By breaking down human movements into basic, fundamental motions, MTM-1 assigns a standardized time value to each, allowing engineers to calculate the precise time required for a qualified worker to complete a task at a normal pace.
The Origins and Purpose
Developed by H.B. Maynard, G.J. Stegemerten, and J.L. Schwab in the 1940s, MTM-1 remains the gold standard for high-precision manual task analysis. The primary purpose of MTM-1 is to establish engineered time standards, improve workplace ergonomics, and eliminate wasteful motions without the need for a stopwatch. Unlike traditional time study methods that rely on observing a worker and estimating their "pace," MTM-1 is objective and predictive.
Core Motion Categories
MTM-1 categorizes all physical work into a set of basic motions. Each motion has a time value measured in TMUs (Time Measurement Units). One TMU is equal to 0.00001 hours, or 0.036 seconds. The motions are classified as follows:
- Reach: The basic motion of moving the hand to a destination.
- Move: Transporting an object to a destination.
- Grasp: Securing control of an object.
- Position: Aligning or orienting an object to a specific location.
- Release: Letting go of an object.
- Disengage: Breaking contact between two objects.
- Turn and Apply Pressure: Rotational movements and static force application.
- Method Improvement: By analyzing the motions, engineers can identify and remove unnecessary steps before a process even begins.
- Consistency: Standards are based on data rather than subjective judgment, ensuring fairness for the workforce.
- Pre-production Planning: MTM-1 allows companies to set labor costs and layout designs during the design phase of a product.
The Process of MTM-1 Analysis
Performing an MTM-1 analysis involves four distinct steps:
- Breakdown: Divide the task into individual elemental motions (e.g., Reach to part, Grasp part, Move to assembly).
- Classification: Identify the variables for each motion. For instance, a "Reach" depends on the distance and the nature of the object (is it an isolated object, a jumbled pile, or a precise location?).
- Lookup: Use the standardized MTM-1 data cards to find the specific TMU value for the motion and its parameters.
- Synthesis: Sum all TMU values to determine the total standard time for the operation.
MTM-1 Data Standards
The system is highly sensitive to environmental and physical factors. For example, a "Reach" motion is categorized by its ease of locating the target. A "Reach A" is to an object in a fixed location, whereas "Reach C" is to an object intermixed with others, which requires significantly more time. This granular level of detail makes MTM-1 more accurate than other high-level motion systems like MTM-2 or MTM-3.
Conclusion
MTM-1 is a powerful tool for organizations striving for operational excellence. While it requires significant training to master, the ability to predict, analyze, and optimize manual processes provides a competitive advantage. By focusing on the fundamental physics of human motion, MTM-1 helps create balanced, efficient, and ergonomic workstations that benefit both the employer and the employee.
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