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The new Primera saddle stitcher from Muller Martini is a perfect example of logical ergonomic design.
From an ergonomic perspective, it is vital that the interaction between man and machine is user-friendly. As a result, a lot of effort has been channeled into optimizing the Human Machine Interface (HMI). The HMI enables the user to operate a machine, observe the system status and (if necessary) make changes to the work process. To make this possible there has to be a seamless flow of information between man and machine. If this communication process functions without any problems, the working process becomes more ergonomic and more efficient, because an increase in operator friendliness means that the machines can be set up and adjusted in a much shorter space of time.
Logical Ergonomic Setup
To make sure that workplaces and work equipment meet human requirements, different body dimensions and physical abilities must be taken into consideration. If these anthropomorphic factors are taken into account with regard to activities such as seeing, gripping, lifting, sitting or moving, the sense of well-being at the workplace will increase.
The Primera is a perfect example of logical ergonomic design. Operation is self-explanatory and structured in a simple manner, while also offering a high level of comfort. In principle, the new saddle stitcher from Muller Martini allows all important tasks to be carried out at the front of the machine, which is also where all of the operating elements are located. A central screen provides machine operators with an intuitive, central location to work from. The touchscreen features a setup wizard that can be used to guide the user step-by-step through all setup functions.
All local control devices can be viewed at a good angle and provide all of the important details for ongoing production. If the machine operator is temporarily unable to see the keyboard, slightly raised buttons on the screen aid operation. Where earlier generations of machines needed work to stop, the adjustment elements – clearly labelled by symbols – can now be used without halting operations.
Improving Ergonomics, One Step at a Time
Consideration must be given to paper handling at the beginning and end of the saddle-stitching process; this is a critical factor in print finishing due to the load that is reasonable for operators to lift and carry. Streamfeeders allow the paper to be lifted to an ergonomic height from which the flat pile feeder can be easily loaded and the infeed technology they use is better and faster. As standard, every feeder has a hook on which the operating personnel can hang a sample of the sheet to be used for reference.
The separation of products in the feeder is extremely important. There are slide controls on the front of the machine that allow this function to be performed ergonomically. These sliders control the separating needles that separate the sheets. One feature that is both ergonomic and practical is the manual movement direction, which corresponds with the operating direction in the machine.
Easy Access for Stitching and Cutting
Large plexiglas doors make the stitching machines and three-knife trimmers easily accessible elements in the later work process. Adjusting the thickness control is no longer a complicated process. To prepare a brochure for the checking process that ensures it is complete, the machine operator simply types in the required thickness on the HMI. The operator is able to adjust the stitching heads using just a single tool placed directly adjacent to the site where it is used. Previously, the adjustment process required the operator to have very good visual judgement but now, the clearly visible scale has made this task much easier. The development of a simplified threading process has also enabled a huge step forward for wire guiding.
If required, operating personnel can easily install and remove the required auxiliary bands at the three-knife trimmer infeed. All additionally required adjustments to the product thickness, spine length, header section and the optional pneumatic knife clamp can be made on the operator side of the Primera. Thanks to Amrys, the E-version of the Primera is fully automated.
| The aim of ergonomics in industrial science is to design the working environment and the technology used therein in line with human requirements. Firstly, it strives to change production processes in such a way that workers are protected against unnecessary stress and physical damage resulting from their work, while still aiming for maximum efficiency (production ergonomics). Secondly, the aim is to ensure individual machines and end products themselves facilitate comfortable operation (product ergonomics). An employee that works on a machine with optimal ergonomics is sick less frequently, has good posture, and remains healthy. In short, working on the machine is fun. An incorrectly designed workplace leads to lower productivity, lower product quality, higher staff sickness statistics and a lower sense of satisfaction among employees. |
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