Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) Calculator
Utilize this specialized calculator to determine the Normal Time for a “voting” or selection task using both MTM-2 and MOST predetermined motion time systems. Optimize your industrial processes and improve efficiency by understanding the time required for fundamental human movements.
Calculate Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST)
MTM-2 Inputs (for a typical selection/voting task)
Distance to reach the voting mechanism (e.g., button, lever).
Type of grasp required for the voting mechanism.
Distance to move/activate the voting mechanism (e.g., press depth, lever throw).
Cognitive effort involved in confirming the vote.
MOST Inputs (for a typical selection/voting task)
Action Distance for reaching to the voting mechanism (e.g., 1 for within reach, 3 for arm’s length).
Body Motion for any adjustment (e.g., 0 for no motion, 1 for slight bend).
Grasp for the voting mechanism (e.g., 1 for simple contact).
Action Distance for pressing/activating the vote (e.g., 1 for short press).
Position for releasing/returning hand (e.g., 1 for simple positioning).
Action Distance for returning hand to home position.
Calculation Results
Normal Time for Voting (Average)
0.00 TMU
MTM-2 Time
0.00 TMU
MOST Time
0.00 TMU
Time in Seconds
0.00 s
Formula Used: Normal Time (TMU) = (MTM-2 Time + MOST Time) / 2. Time in Seconds = Normal Time * 0.036.
MTM-2 and MOST times are calculated based on the sum of their respective elemental motion values (in TMU).
| System | Motion Element | Description | TMU Value |
|---|
What is Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST)?
The concept of Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) refers to the standardized time required for an average, qualified worker to perform a “voting” or selection task at a normal pace, without any allowances for fatigue, delays, or personal needs. In the context of industrial engineering and work measurement, “voting” typically signifies a decision-making or selection action within a broader operational sequence, such as selecting an option on a control panel, confirming a step in an assembly line, or choosing a component from a bin.
This normal time is established using Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS) like MTM-2 (Methods-Time Measurement 2) and MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique). These systems break down manual tasks into fundamental human motions, assigning pre-established time values (in Time Measurement Units, TMU) to each motion. By summing these elemental times, engineers can accurately predict the time required for a task without needing to observe it directly with a stopwatch.
Who Should Use Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST)?
- Industrial Engineers: For designing efficient workstations, optimizing production lines, and establishing fair labor standards.
- Process Improvement Specialists: To identify bottlenecks, eliminate waste, and streamline operational procedures.
- Manufacturing Managers: For production planning, capacity estimation, and cost analysis.
- Ergonomists: To assess the physical demands of tasks and design safer, more comfortable work environments.
- Anyone involved in task analysis and work measurement: To gain a precise understanding of manual task durations.
Common Misconceptions about Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST)
- It’s the same as Standard Time: Normal Time is the time without allowances. Standard Time includes allowances for personal needs, fatigue, and unavoidable delays.
- It’s only for manufacturing: While originating in manufacturing, PMTS can be applied to any manual task, including administrative, service, and logistics operations.
- It’s subjective: PMTS are based on extensive research and empirical data, providing objective and consistent time values, unlike stopwatch time studies which can be influenced by observer bias.
- It’s too complex to apply: While requiring training, systems like MTM-2 and MOST are designed for practical application, with MOST being particularly known for its speed of analysis.
- It accounts for individual differences: Normal time is based on an “average” skilled worker. Individual performance will vary, but the normal time provides a consistent baseline.
Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The calculation of Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) involves analyzing the “voting” task through the lens of two distinct predetermined motion time systems and then often averaging their results to provide a robust estimate. Both MTM-2 and MOST quantify human motions in Time Measurement Units (TMU), where 1 TMU = 0.00001 hours = 0.0006 minutes = 0.036 seconds.
Step-by-Step Derivation:
- Task Definition: Clearly define the “voting” task, breaking it down into observable physical and mental actions. For example, “Reach for button, press button, release button, confirm selection.”
- MTM-2 Analysis:
- Identify MTM-2 basic motions (e.g., Reach, Grasp, Move, Release, Eye Travel/Focus, Apply Pressure) for each part of the task.
- Assign TMU values to each motion based on distance, weight, precision, and other factors as per MTM-2 tables.
- Sum all individual MTM-2 motion TMUs to get the total MTM-2 Time for the task.
- MOST Analysis:
- Identify the appropriate MOST sequence model (e.g., General Move, Controlled Move, Tool Use). For a simple “voting” task, a General Move (A B G A B P A) is often suitable.
- Assign parameter values (A, B, G, P, T) based on the characteristics of the motions involved (e.g., distance, body motion, grasp type, positioning).
- Multiply the sum of the parameter values by 10 TMU (the MOST constant) to get the total MOST Time for the task.
- Normal Time Calculation:
- The Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) is often derived by averaging the MTM-2 and MOST results to provide a balanced estimate.
Normal Time (TMU) = (MTM-2 Time + MOST Time) / 2- Convert TMU to seconds:
Time in Seconds = Normal Time (TMU) * 0.036
Variable Explanations:
| Variable | Meaning | Unit | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTM-2 Reach Distance | Distance hand travels to reach object. | cm | 10 – 80 |
| MTM-2 Grasp Type | Complexity of grasping the object. | Categorical | Simple, Difficult |
| MTM-2 Move Distance | Distance object is moved. | cm | 5 – 50 |
| MTM-2 Decision Complexity | Cognitive effort for confirmation. | Categorical | Low, Medium, High |
| MOST A-value (Action Distance) | Steps for horizontal/vertical movement. | Unitless (MOST steps) | 1 – 10 (for short distances) |
| MOST B-value (Body Motion) | Steps for body movements (e.g., bend, sit). | Unitless (MOST steps) | 0 – 6 (for minor adjustments) |
| MOST G-value (Grasp) | Steps for grasping an object. | Unitless (MOST steps) | 1 – 3 (for simple to difficult) |
| MOST P-value (Position) | Steps for positioning an object. | Unitless (MOST steps) | 1 – 3 (for loose to exact) |
| TMU | Time Measurement Unit (1 TMU = 0.036 seconds). | TMU | Varies by task |
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: Simple Button Press for Quality Check
An operator on an assembly line needs to press a “Pass” or “Fail” button after inspecting a product. This is a simple Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) scenario.
- MTM-2 Inputs:
- Reach Distance: 20 cm
- Grasp Type: Simple (finger contact)
- Move Distance: 5 cm (button press depth)
- Decision Complexity: Medium (brief visual confirmation)
- MOST Inputs:
- Reach Action (A): 2 (for 20cm reach)
- Body Motion (B): 0 (no body adjustment)
- Grasp (G): 1 (simple contact)
- Press Action (A): 1 (short press)
- Position (P): 1 (simple release)
- Return Action (A): 2 (return hand 20cm)
Calculation:
- MTM-2 Time:
- R8B (20cm) = 8.9 TMU
- G1B (Simple) = 3.5 TMU
- M2B (5cm) = 4.9 TMU
- RL1 = 1.7 TMU
- ET/EF = 9.0 TMU
- Decision (Medium) = 5.0 TMU
- Total MTM-2 Time = 8.9 + 3.5 + 4.9 + 1.7 + 9.0 + 5.0 = 33.0 TMU
- MOST Time:
- Sequence: A2 B0 G1 A1 P1 A2
- Total MOST Steps = 2 + 0 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 7 steps
- Total MOST Time = 7 * 10 TMU = 70 TMU
- Normal Time (Average): (33.0 + 70.0) / 2 = 51.5 TMU
- Time in Seconds: 51.5 TMU * 0.036 s/TMU = 1.854 seconds
Interpretation: This task, on average, should take an operator approximately 1.854 seconds to complete under normal conditions. This value can be used for line balancing and cycle time calculations.
Example 2: Selecting a Component from a Multi-Bin System
A warehouse worker needs to select one specific component from a rack with multiple bins, requiring a slightly more complex reach and decision.
- MTM-2 Inputs:
- Reach Distance: 50 cm
- Grasp Type: Difficult (small component, precise grasp)
- Move Distance: 20 cm (move component to inspection area)
- Decision Complexity: High (verify part number, check bin location)
- MOST Inputs:
- Reach Action (A): 6 (for 50cm reach)
- Body Motion (B): 1 (slight lean)
- Grasp (G): 3 (difficult grasp)
- Press Action (A): 3 (move component 20cm)
- Position (P): 1 (simple release)
- Return Action (A): 6 (return hand 50cm)
Calculation:
- MTM-2 Time:
- R20B (50cm) = 14.0 TMU
- G1C (Difficult) = 7.3 TMU
- M8B (20cm) = 8.9 TMU
- RL1 = 1.7 TMU
- ET/EF = 9.0 TMU
- Decision (High) = 10.0 TMU
- Total MTM-2 Time = 14.0 + 7.3 + 8.9 + 1.7 + 9.0 + 10.0 = 50.9 TMU
- MOST Time:
- Sequence: A6 B1 G3 A3 P1 A6
- Total MOST Steps = 6 + 1 + 3 + 3 + 1 + 6 = 20 steps
- Total MOST Time = 20 * 10 TMU = 200 TMU
- Normal Time (Average): (50.9 + 200.0) / 2 = 125.45 TMU
- Time in Seconds: 125.45 TMU * 0.036 s/TMU = 4.5162 seconds
Interpretation: This more complex selection task has a Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) of approximately 4.52 seconds. The significant difference between MTM-2 and MOST in this example highlights how different systems can interpret complex motions, making the average a useful compromise.
How to Use This Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) Calculator
This calculator is designed to provide a quick and accurate estimate of the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) for various selection or decision-making tasks. Follow these steps to get the most out of the tool:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Define Your “Voting” Task: Clearly identify the specific actions involved in the selection or decision task you want to analyze. Break it down into simple movements.
- Input MTM-2 Parameters:
- Reach Distance (cm): Enter the approximate distance the hand travels to reach the voting mechanism.
- Grasp Type: Select ‘Simple’ for easy contact or ‘Difficult’ for precise or awkward grasps.
- Move Distance (cm): Enter the distance the mechanism is moved or pressed.
- Decision Complexity: Choose ‘Low’ for automatic confirmation, ‘Medium’ for a brief check, or ‘High’ for detailed verification.
- Input MOST Parameters:
- Reach Action (A-value): Estimate the MOST A-value for reaching the mechanism (e.g., 1 for short, 3 for arm’s length, 6 for longer).
- Body Motion (B-value): Enter the B-value for any body adjustments (e.g., 0 for none, 1 for slight lean).
- Grasp (G-value): Input the G-value for grasping (e.g., 1 for simple, 3 for difficult).
- Press Action (A-value): Estimate the A-value for the pressing or activating motion.
- Position (P-value): Enter the P-value for positioning the hand for release or return.
- Return Action (A-value): Estimate the A-value for returning the hand to its home position.
- Calculate: Click the “Calculate Normal Time” button. The results will update in real-time as you adjust inputs.
- Reset: Use the “Reset” button to clear all inputs and return to default values.
- Copy Results: Click “Copy Results” to easily transfer the calculated times and key assumptions to your reports or documents.
How to Read Results:
- Normal Time for Voting (Average): This is the primary result, representing the average of the MTM-2 and MOST calculated times in TMU. It’s the most balanced estimate of the task’s normal duration.
- MTM-2 Time: The total time in TMU calculated specifically using MTM-2 principles.
- MOST Time: The total time in TMU calculated specifically using MOST principles.
- Time in Seconds: The average normal time converted into seconds for easier real-world understanding.
- Detailed Motion Breakdown Table: Provides a granular view of how each system’s elements contribute to the total time.
- Comparison Chart: Visually compares the MTM-2 and MOST times, helping to identify any significant discrepancies between the two analyses.
Decision-Making Guidance:
The Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) provides a foundational metric for various operational decisions:
- Process Optimization: If the normal time is higher than expected, analyze the motion breakdown to identify inefficient movements or unnecessary decisions.
- Workstation Design: Use the data to optimize the layout of controls and components, reducing reach and move distances.
- Training: Highlight critical motions or decision points that might require specific training for operators.
- Benchmarking: Compare the calculated normal time against industry benchmarks or previous studies to assess efficiency.
- Standard Time Development: This normal time is the first step in calculating standard time by adding appropriate allowance factors.
Key Factors That Affect Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) Results
The accuracy and relevance of the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) are influenced by several critical factors. Understanding these can help in more precise analysis and effective process improvement.
- Reach and Move Distances:
Longer distances for reaching to a control or moving a lever directly increase the TMU values in both MTM-2 and MOST. Optimizing workstation layouts to minimize these distances is a primary goal of work measurement. Shorter, more ergonomic reaches lead to lower normal times and improved efficiency.
- Grasp and Position Complexity:
The ease or difficulty of grasping an object (e.g., a large button vs. a small, recessed switch) or positioning it (e.g., a loose fit vs. an exact alignment) significantly impacts TMU values. Difficult grasps and precise positions require more time and can be a source of fatigue. Simplifying these elements can reduce the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
- Body Motions Required:
Any body movements beyond simple arm/hand motions, such as bending, turning, or walking, add considerable time. MOST, in particular, accounts for these with its ‘B’ (Body Motion) parameter. Minimizing unnecessary body movements through better workstation design or automation can drastically reduce the normal time.
- Decision-Making Complexity:
While not a direct physical motion, the cognitive effort involved in “voting” or making a selection adds to the normal time. If an operator needs to verify multiple parameters, read complex instructions, or choose from many options, the decision complexity increases, adding mental processing time. Simplifying interfaces and providing clear visual cues can reduce this component of the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
- Tool Use and Control Manipulation:
If the “voting” task involves using a tool (e.g., a stylus for a touchscreen, a key for a lock) or manipulating a complex control (e.g., a multi-stage switch), additional motion elements and higher TMU values will be incurred. The design of tools and controls should aim for simplicity and ease of use to minimize the normal time.
- Method Consistency:
The normal time assumes a consistent method of performing the task. Variations in how different operators perform the “voting” action, or even how the same operator performs it at different times, can lead to discrepancies. Standardizing the work method is crucial for achieving the calculated Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the primary difference between MTM-2 and MOST?
A: MTM-2 uses more granular basic motions (Reach, Grasp, Move) and is generally more precise but takes longer to apply. MOST uses broader, sequence-based models (General Move, Controlled Move) and is faster to apply, making it suitable for a wider range of tasks where high precision isn’t always required. Both are used to determine Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
Q: Why is “voting” used in this context, and not political voting?
A: In industrial engineering, “voting” refers to a selection or decision-making action within a work process, such as pressing a button to confirm a step, selecting an option on a screen, or choosing a component. It’s a common element in many manual tasks that contributes to the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
Q: How accurate are MTM-2 and MOST?
A: Both systems are highly accurate when applied correctly by trained analysts. MTM-2 is generally considered more precise for very short, repetitive cycles, while MOST offers good accuracy for longer, more varied tasks with faster application. The accuracy of Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) depends on the analyst’s skill and the detail of the task breakdown.
Q: Can this calculator be used for any task?
A: This calculator is specifically tailored for “voting” or selection-type tasks, modeling common motions associated with such actions. While the principles of MTM-2 and MOST apply broadly, the specific inputs and elemental breakdowns here are optimized for this type of task to calculate Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
Q: What is a TMU, and why is it used?
A: TMU stands for Time Measurement Unit. It’s a universal unit of time used in predetermined motion time systems. One TMU equals 0.00001 hours, 0.0006 minutes, or 0.036 seconds. It’s used to provide a consistent, small unit for measuring very short human motions, ensuring precision in calculating Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
Q: How do allowances factor into this?
A: This calculator determines “Normal Time,” which does not include allowances. To get “Standard Time,” you would multiply the Normal Time by an allowance factor (e.g., 1.15 for 15% allowances for personal needs, fatigue, and delays). This is a crucial next step after determining the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST).
Q: What if MTM-2 and MOST results differ significantly?
A: Significant differences can occur due to the inherent granularity of each system or how the task was interpreted for each. It might indicate that one system is more appropriate for the specific task, or that a re-evaluation of the motion breakdown is needed. Averaging, as done in this Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST) calculator, provides a balanced estimate.
Q: Can this help with process improvement?
A: Absolutely. By quantifying the Normal Time for Voting (MTM-2 & MOST), you can identify which motions consume the most time. This allows you to target specific areas for improvement, such as reducing reach distances, simplifying grasps, or streamlining decision processes, leading to more efficient workflows.