Ergonomics Based Computer-Aided Layout Design Method for Modern Complex Control Panels

An ergonomics based layout method was proposed for the modern complex control panel layout design. The devices grouping method was studied to reduce the complexity of panel overall layout, with ergonomics layout criteria of importance and usage frequency were considered; the pair-wise comparison decision method of analytic hierarchy process was used to determine the relative importance of devices and groups. Genetic algorithm based optimization method of devices arrangement order was studied. Fitness function was constructed based on the ergonomics layout criteria of importance, usage frequency, and operational sequence. The selection, crossover, and mutation operation of the biology heredity were used to search for the optimal or satisfying arrangement solution. Placement method for groups and devices was also proposed. Finally, a case was provided to illustrate the proposed panel layout method.