Subjective estimates of times for assembly work

Research by Chan and Hoffmann (2013, 2016) showed that people can estimate task times with reasonable accuracy. That work included experiments on Fitts’ task, a double component movement task, pin-to-hole assembly and ballistic movement tasks. In each case, a linear relationship was found relating subjective estimates of task time and actual task times. In this research, the work has been extended to two industrial assembly tasks: assembly of a U-bolt from components and the more complex task of assembling a hacksaw. These tasks were done in an ergonomically designed work space, with components placed within the Normal Work Area and using jigs for convenience of using two-handed assembly. Actual and estimated component times were obtained from video and voice recordings. Results showed that estimated times were lower than actual assembly times, but higher than times predicted using the MODAPTS predetermined motion time system. Participants appeared to have most difficulty estimating times for task components involving fine manipulation, such as inserting and tightening screws. •A good relationship between actual and estimated task times for complex tasks of assembly was found.•Tasks used were U-bolt and hacksaw assembly.•Estimated task times are lower than for actual task times and higher than MODAPTS times for tasks studied.•Standard deviations of estimated task times are much larger than for actual task times.