Case Study - MyModular

MyModular is improving the efficiency and inclusivity of cable processing in shipbuilding by developing a modular work cell designed to support a diverse workforce. The Lonsdale-based company, known for purpose-built modular wiring solutions for commercial and residential electrical installations, identified cable processing as a significant and labour-intensive part of shipbuilding—requiring around 29,000 cable cuts per vessel and a team of 6–8 employees.

In collaboration with BAE Systems and Flinders University’s Factory of the Future, MyModular designed and trialled a cable processing work cell capable of loading, measuring, cutting, and packing cables. The project involved understanding and applying: ergonomics, work health and safety, universal design, usability and interface design, systematic instruction.

A co-design process involving Factory of the Future engineers, human factors specialists, and stakeholders from Bedford Group, See Differently, and Autism SA led to the development of a prototype transportable unit that can be flexibly deployed and operated by individuals of differing abilities and backgrounds.

Researchers:

• Dr Sara Howard
• Dr Valerie O’Keeffe