Optimization of Interface layout of electrical equipment using Heuristic Algorithm

Facility Layout Problem(FLP) is a major matter in the process of human-machine interface(HMI) design, which has a direct impact on how well operators perform their duties. Electrical equipment, which controls the power system, has a direct impact on how safely the system operates. The current optimization techniques prioritize improving the equipment’s performance characteristics at the expense of user aspects. This work aims to apply heuristic algorithms that introduce cognitive psychology and adopt the layout principle as a constraint condition to solve this problem. The improved analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to conduct the optimal design practice of the HMI of electrical switching equipment, develop the optimization mathematical model, and quantify the subjective and objective layout principles. Comparing the optimization results reveals that the genetic algorithm’s optimization impact is superior and the ant colony algorithm’s iterative pace is faster. The HMI’s optimized design based on a heuristic algorithm can improve the usability of interface operation, and has a certain reference for the optimization design of HMI of electrical equipment.