Is a mock-up study important in designing an isolator or glove box?

Which features/characteristics should be checked to carry out a proper ergonomic assessment?

Benefits of a Mock-up Study

When designing an isolator for manual processes, ergonomic assessment is a crucial part of Design Qualification.  The point of the assessment is to test, as accurately as possible, the operations to be performed during real manufacturing with real tools and consumables planned for the specific process, assuring that the operators will be able to perform their tasks in the most comfortable environment, while maintaining an assurance on process quality and safety aspects.

The main purpose, in fact, is to avoid operator fatigue or injury during the process (awkward postures, forceful exertions, static postures or pressure points…) while at the same time to guarantee the correct feasibility of all the process steps. The consequences of neglecting or underestimating this assessment may be irreversible, ultimately causing huge cost and time to rework the already manufactured isolator or, even worse, to affect its usability.

For this reason, it is extremely important that the customer, with the participation of its engineering and operational functions together with the isolator manufacturer, dedicate enough time to this studio. In fact, while the end-user has its knowledge and operation perspective, the experience of the isolator manufacturer will help and suggest possible solutions.

Different isolator manufacturers can use different ways to build a Mock-Up Model, for example using wood, carton, steel, aluminium frames or a combination, and for each material used there are pros and cons. However, it is crucial that the material chosen gives the best flexibility while at the same time provides a good sense of the solid appearance of the equipment.

Comecer’s Mock-up Process

When an organization is interested in a new, custom-built isolator these are the steps we generally follow:

1. Comecer receives a request for a mock-up model.
2. Comecer experts meet with the requesting organization and then produce a mock-up based on requirements.
3. When the mock-up is ready, we organize a client visit to our factory to see the mock-up.
4. Comecer goes through its Mock-up Checklist (see below) with the client to verify that the model covers all topics appropriately and that all client questions are answered.
5. Comecer proceeds with production of the custom-built isolator.

To get an idea of the thoroughness of the Comecer Mock-up checklist, we are enclosing a copy below.

Mock-Up Study Preliminary Checklist

For more information about the mock-up study, please fill the form below.