Linear Programming Applied to Optimization of Instrument Panel and Workplace Layout

Abstract

This paper investigates the application of several linear programming algorithms to the problems of workplace and instrument panel design. The various approaches described depend primarily upon the type of problem constructed; that is, upon the structure of constraints and available information. Two types of optimization functions are described, one based upon the distance between available positions and the second based on minimum eye travel. One formulation incorporates the probability of transition between any pair of available positions as a design parameter. The results indicate that solution of these problems is possible by several algorithms, primarily the transportation algorithm and the assignment algorithm. A solution using Simplex was attempted for one type of design and the constraint structure proved to be complex.

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