Professor Thomas Maier from the Institute for Construction Technique and Technical Design (Institut für Konstruktionstechnik und Technisches Design) at the University of Stuttgart is the “guiding spirit” behind the new Muller Martini machine generation.

You are considered the “Ergonomics Guru” at the University of Stuttgart. How relevant is ergonomics in mechanical engineering?
Prof. Dr. Thomas Maier*: Ergonomics is becoming more and more relevant to the control systems of products, individual machines and whole systems. An important role in this is played by the Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Ideally, the aim of ergonomics must always be to improve user friendliness or usability.

You have conducted a study of Muller Martini machines. What conclusions have you drawn from an ergonomic point of view for the new machine generation?
The main starting point for the new corporate design is the consistent construction of the machines on the basis of optimum ergonomics. This relates to the working heights, foot room, field of view and ease of reach. We have used these to compile a style guide that applies to all Muller Martini machines. For example, this contains, in line with international standards, a single valid range of working heights for all the machines that will be developed in the future.

So that’s what you have done for the design. How have you optimized the operation?
The new operating concept assumes a logical, intuitive and self-explanatory operating strategy - for example, this affects the angle and position of the operating panel, display sizes and handles.

What is the fundamental significance of a clearly arranged operator guidance?
First it contributes a great deal to competitive distinction in a positive sense. Secondly it prevents errors. This reduces machine downtime which results in higher productivity.

What are the concrete benefits to operators of machines built to comply as far as possible with ergonomic principles?
They suffer less sickness, they have good posture, their health is fostered - in brief:  they enjoy operating the machines and they enjoy their work. A slogan in the trade media claims “Design is sexy”.  Modern machines not only need to produce, but also to communicate as an emotional component.

Do the new machines also contribute to greater safety at work?
Without a doubt; we took special account of this. However, the existing Muller Martini machine concept already met very high standards of safety at work. However, there are always new legal requirements that are taken into consideration for new machine concepts.

Operators of ergonomically designed machines suffer less sickness, have good posture and their health is fostered.

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*Professor Thomas Maier from the Institute for Construction Technique and Technical Design (Institut für Konstruktionstechnik und Technisches Design) at the University of Stuttgart is the guiding spirit of the new Muller Martini machine generation.
www.iktd.uni-stuttgart.de/design