A Direct Perception Interface for Nuclear Power Plants

Abstract

Following the suggestions of Beltracchi (1987) a direct perception interface for the thermal hydraulic systems of a pressurized water nuclear power reactor (PWR) was developed. It presents operators with an animated graphic of the Rankine heat cycle describing the functional relations of steam generation in a PWR. The ability of students of thermal and nuclear systems to recall system states, and detect and diagnose nine transients was compared to that of experienced nuclear power plant operators. The results were compared to a display representing traditional analog meters. The direct perception interface supported better diagnostic performance, but did not improve memory for quantitative information. Problems in evaluating such displays are discussed, in particular concerning choice of scenarios, and investigation of failure modes of advanced displays.