Simulation-Based Interface Evaluation Method of Equipment in Power Plants

Although many human errors are occurring in the maintenance field of power plants, systematic approaches to the reduction of human error are not enough compared with operation fields The authors propose a new method of evaluating and analyzing human interface design from the viewpoint of human error, and have implemented the method on the DIAS system. This system consists of maintenance personnel and equipment interface simulators, and it generates a dynamic interaction between humans and the working environment. The authors applied this system to evaluate the interface design of actual Transformer Protection Relay Panels and their layout in a room in a nuclear power plant. Our customer accepted our evaluation and proposal to modify the panel design.