Adaptive Human–Machine Interface Supporting Operator’s Cognitive Activity in Process Control Systems

Abstract

The article covers the issue of information arrangement and presentation in a human–machine interface (HMI) for monitoring and control of complex process systems. Experience shows that there is no universal interface equally efficient in all cases. The article describes the concept of a multi-layered interface with three layers – system, analytical and functional. The same process information may be presented differently in these layers. Each layer is designed to support a certain type of an operator’s cognitive activity: the system layer is meant for control support, the analytical layer – for assistance in the assessment and prediction of situation development, the functional layer – for the support of supervisory activities. Depending on the situation, each layer may be visible, semi-transparent or transparent (disabled). The multi-layered adaptive interface is described with the example of a VDU format for monitoring and control of a coolant circulation loop at a nuclear power plant.