In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environments, ensuring operator comfort and efficiency is critical. Ergonomics, a discipline focused on optimizing human well-being and system performance, plays a pivotal role in workplace design. Robotas Technologies has embraced this principle in the development of its Mascot systems, which are specifically engineered to improve ergonomics for electronics manufacturing professionals. This article discusses the ergonomic innovations of Robotas’ Mascot products and highlights their benefits for productivity, safety, and operator satisfaction.
Effective ergonomic design is built on seven key principles: working height, work area, reach zones, parts presentation, range of vision, lighting, and equipment adjustability.3 Robotas’ Mascot systems incorporate each of these elements to provide operators with a seamless and comfortable working experience:
1. Adjustable Working Height. One of the foundational aspects of ergonomic design is ensuring that workstations accommodate different operator heights and preferences. Robotas’ Mascot Standalone and Pushtrack systems feature motorized height-adjustable workbenches. These benches have a height range from 97.5-125.5 cm, fully complying with the ISO 14738 standard for optimal working zones that suggests standing heights should be between 100-125 cm.4 By allowing operators to adjust the bench height, these systems reduce strain on the back, shoulders, and neck, which are common areas of discomfort in static work environments.
2. Optimal Work Area Dimensions. The depth of Mascot systems — 56 cm for the Standalone units and 67 cm for Pushtrack and Conveyor models — ensures operators can comfortably access their work area without overreaching. These dimensions align with established ergonomic guidelines that state the standard depth of a workbench is anywhere between 45.7-91.4 cm5, creating a workspace that minimizes unnecessary movement and maximizes efficiency.
3. Reach Zones Designed for Efficiency. Dynamic pick-to-light (DPL) arrays and motorized carousels are used for component storage and part delivery to the operator. These material storage systems ensure that components are always within a comfortable reach (between 26.5-49 cm). Robotas’ in-line Pushtrack and conveyorized Mascot models mount these peripherals on articulated arms, which operators can easily adjust and lock to their preferred position. This adaptability ensures compliance with ISO standards, which recommend that objects should not be placed more than 48.5 cm from the operator.2 By eliminating the need for awkward stretching or twisting, these features reduce physical strain and improve workflow efficiency.
4. Simplified Parts Presentation. Parts presentation is a critical aspect of ergonomic workstation design. Mascot systems use intelligent technology to streamline this process by using motorized carousels and DPL arrays to automatically present the required component. This minimizes repetitive movements and in turn reduces the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders.
Additionally, operators can customize the placement of components within the carousels and arrays (with 50 component storage bins in the carousel and a four-level DPL array with a flexible height and angle for each shelf). Frequently used parts can be stored in easily accessible compartments, while heavier items can be placed on lower shelves to reduce exertion. These design features not only enhance comfort but also boost efficiency by reducing time spent searching for components.
The ergonomic features of Robotas’ Mascot systems yield significant benefits that extend beyond operator comfort. These advantages include:
- Improved Health and Safety: Ergonomically designed workstations reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, a common issue in manufacturing environments. By minimizing repetitive movements and awkward postures, Mascot systems help operators maintain their physical health, leading to fewer sick days and lower healthcare costs for employers.
- Enhanced Productivity: When operators are comfortable and free from physical strain, they can focus more effectively on their tasks. This results in faster assembly times, higher output, and improved overall efficiency. The intelligent parts presentation and adjustable components of Mascot systems further streamline workflows, enabling operators to complete tasks with minimal effort.
- Better Product Quality: Ergonomic workstations reduce errors by promoting precision and focus. In electronics manufacturing, where accuracy is paramount, this can significantly improve the quality of the final product. Operators working in a well-designed environment are less likely to make mistakes, ensuring consistent and reliable results.
- Increased Job Satisfaction: Comfortable work environments contribute to higher job satisfaction and morale. When employees feel that their well-being is prioritized, they are more engaged and motivated. This positive workplace culture can lead to lower turnover rates and a more dedicated workforce.
- Long-Term Sustainability: By reducing physical strain and improving efficiency, ergonomic designs promote long-term sustainability in manufacturing operations. Companies that invest in ergonomics are better positioned to attract and retain skilled talent while maintaining high standards of productivity and quality.
Robotas Technologies has set a new standard for ergonomic excellence in electronics manufacturing. The Mascot systems are a testament to the company’s dedication to human-centric design, showcasing how technology can be tailored to meet the needs of operators. By addressing health, anthropometric data, comfort, and efficiency, Robotas empowers businesses to achieve sustainable growth while prioritizing the well-being of their workforce.
In a competitive manufacturing landscape, the importance of ergonomics cannot be overstated. Robotas’ commitment to creating adaptable, inclusive systems highlights the impact that thoughtful design can have on both individuals and organizations. The Mascot systems serve as a benchmark for ergonomic innovation, proving that productivity and well-being are not mutually exclusive but inherently interconnected.
References
- ISO – International Organization for Standardisation (2016) ISO 6385:2016 Ergonomics Principles in the Design of Work Systems. Available at: https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/en/#iso:std:iso:6385:ed-3:v1:en (Accessed: 14th January 2025)
- HSE – Health and Safety Executive (2025) Design. Available at: https://www.hse.gov.uk/humanfactors/topics/design.htm (Accessed: 14th January 2025)
- Bosch Rexroth AG (2012) Ergonomics Guidebook for Manual Production Systems. Available at: https://www.valin.com/documents/pdf/Bosch-Ergonomic-Guidebook.pdf (Accessed: 14th January 2025)
- Bourret, Q. (2022) 4 Tips for a More Ergonomic Production Line. Available at: https://blog.3ds.com/brands/delmia/4-tips-for-a-more-ergonomic-production-line/ (Accessed: 14th January 2025)
- Panero, J. and Zelnik M. (1979) Human Dimension & Interior Space. New York: Watson-Guptill Publications
