A METHODOLOGY FOR OPTIMALLY DESIGNING CONSOLE PANELS FOR USE BY A SINGLE OPERATOR

A seven-step methodology is presented to determine a dimensionally cor rect optimal layout of a console panel for a single operator. This met hodology integrates th, steps in the layout design process and uses a mathematical optimization model from facility design to obtain the opt imal panel layout. A major difference in this methodology from previou s work is that the mathematical optimization model incorporates factor s that are only partially included in previous mathematical models. In addition, it includes the areas of the panel components as a new fact or. This methodology is illustrated by the design of a nuclear power p lant console panel.