Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS) and Methods-Time Measurement (MTM-2), Components of a basic PMTS, PMTS data levels, Application of PMTS systems

Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS)

Also known as predetermined time standards (PTS) or synthetic time standards.

• Define the time needed for the performance of various operations by derivation from pre-set standards of time for various motions & not by direct observation & measurement
• Established for basic human motions, classified according to the nature of the motion & the conditions under which it is made

Example: Putting a washer on a bolt. The operator will reach to the washer, grasp the washer, move the washer to the bolt, position it on the bolt & release it

Components of a basic PMTS

Advantages of PMTS systems

• One time is indicated for a given motion
• Irrespective of where such a motion is performed
• Timing by direct observation & rating can sometimes lead to inconsistency, PTS system avoids both rating & direct observation
• Can lead to more consistency in setting standard times
• Possible to define standard time for a given operation before production begins
• Allow to change the layout & jigs & fixtures in such a way that the optimum production time is achieved
• Allow to draw up an estimate of the cost of production before starting operation

PMTS data levels: Basic motions (Methods-Time Measurement - MTM)

• MTM-1 comprises the motions RELEASE, REACH, GRASP, MOVE, POSITION, RELEASE.
• At MTM-2 these motions are combined into GET & PUT.
• At MTM-3 the motions have been further combined as HANDLE, to give a description of the complete work cycle.

Application of PMTS systems

Can be applied in three main ways:

• Direct observation of the motions used by the operative
• Mental visualization of the motions needed to accomplish a new or alternative work method
• From analysis of a film/video taken of the operative at the place of work

Methods-Time Measurement (MTM-2)

• The system most likely to be used by the work study person is MTM-2
• MTM-2 employs exclusively behavioral concepts
• The MTM-2 system provides time standards ranging from 3 to 61 TMU

MTM-2 data card

The Derivation of TMU Value

TMU (Time Measurement Unit) is a system of time measurement used in MTM-2.

                - The unit of measurement is equal to 0.00001 hour.

TMU per hour/ minute/ second is equal to:

1Hour                 =             100,000 TMU’s
1 Minute             =             1667 TMU’s
1 Second             =             27.8 TMU’s

Above time are applicable to Day Rate or non-incentive & described as MTM100 performance or Low task.

When incentive is introduced, worker should produce more TMU’s

The higher performance level is described as MTM120 or High task. TMU per hour/ minute/ second is equal to:

1Hour                  =             100,000 TMU’s
1 Minute              =             1667 TMU’s
1 Second              =             27.8 TMU’s