Modular workstations put all tools within arm’s reach

An industrial machine manufacturer wanted to improve its associates’ access to tools and supplies. As the business grew, the volume, density and variety of products manufactured increased. The company’s standard shelves and workbenches were no longer sufficient, and it soon became apparent that associates were spending too much time hunting for what they needed. By installing a series of modular workstations, the company was able to boost productivity while saving space.

The workstation supplier (Creform, creform.com), designed and built “u-cells” in place of the standard workbenches. Right-sized and matched to the workstation’s capacity requirements, the u-cells are composed of plastic coated steel pipe and metal joints. They can be quickly and easily altered in a matter of a few hours.

“We’re very pleased with the improvements we’ve made,” says one wiring shop supervisor. “This type of project supports our lean manufacturing initiatives, and the time we spent planning the layout of the cell will pay dividends for many years.”

The cells’ ergonomic principles minimize reach distances and times, increasing productivity while helping minimize worker fatigue. All tools and supplies are now within arm’s reach of the sit-down work cell. Standard hardware units have been integrated into the work cell for small parts, with reels of wire and heat shrink placed above and below the work surfaces. Pegboard on the back of the cell keeps tools easily identifiable and within reach.

With the implementation of the new u-cells, productivity has improved by 30% while required space has been reduced by 20%. When production volumes are high the cells can support extra personnel. When volumes are low and personnel requirements are lowered, the u-cells support the ability for an operator to multi-task.