Motion Study and Therbligs
- Theory / Concept Name
- Motion Study and Therbligs
- Description
Frank & Lillian Gilbreth — Motion Study
Frank and Lillian Gilbreth pioneered motion study — the systematic analysis of body movements used in performing a task, to eliminate unnecessary motions and reduce fatigue.
Therbligs
The Gilbreths broke all work motions into 17 fundamental hand/body motions called therbligs (Gilbreth spelled backwards, roughly). Examples include:
- Search, Find, Select, Grasp, Position, Assemble, Use, Disassemble, Inspect, Transport Loaded, Transport Empty, Hold, Release Load, Unavoidable Delay, Avoidable Delay, Rest, Plan.
Contribution
- Introduced the use of micromotion study using film to record and analyse motions.
- Lillian Gilbreth applied psychology to management, bridging industrial engineering and human relations.
- Their work directly influenced modern ergonomics and lean manufacturing.
- Theorist / Pioneer
- Frank & Lillian Gilbreth
- Year
- 1911
- Category
- Classical