A work cell is required to make 140 computerized diagnostic assemblies (for installation into hybrid automobiles) each day. The cell currently works an eight hour shift, of which seven hours is available for productive work

These assemblies require five operations. Standard times for these operations are: Operation A, 3.0 minutes, B, 1.8 minutes, C, 2.4 minutes, D, 2.5 minutes, and E, 1.4 minutes.
(a) What is takt time for this cell?
(b) How many workers will be needed to achieve this schedule?

(a) Takt time = 420 / 140 = 3 minutes/unit.
(b) Total operation time = 3.0 + 1.8 + 2.4 + 2.5 + 1.4 = 11.1 minutes. A minimum of four workers are required (11.1 / 3 = 3.7).