Comparison of a touch-sensitive VDU and computer-aided keypad for plant control

Abstract The technology of touch screens is discussed with emphasis on the development of appropriate software and human factors. A touch screen was compared with an intelligent keypad in an experiment in which CEGB personnel controlled simulated plant. Users preferred the touch screen in normal conditions and particularly for emergency working. Also, a statistically significant improvement in plant controllability was recorded when the touch screen was used in place of the keypad. Touch screens are seen to possess many advantages over conventional man-machine interfaces. Their use is shown to be appropriate in applications suchas alarm analysis, data and mimic selection and interactive graphics as well as for controlling plant.