Optimization-Based Layout Design. Issue 3 (8th July 2010)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Abdel-Malek, K.; Mi, Z.; Yang, J.; Nebel, K.
• Is Part Of: Applied bionics and biomechanics. Volume 2:Issue 3/4(2005)
• Page Start: 187
• Page End: 196
• Publication Date: 2010-07-08
• Subjects: Layout design -- global optimization -- ergonomics -- human modeling; Bionics -- Periodicals; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Biomedical engineering -- Periodicals; 003.505
• DOI: 10.1533/abbi.2004.0046
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1176-2322

Abstract

Abstract : The layout problem is of importance to ergonomists, vehicle/cockpit packaging engineers, designers of manufacturing assembly lines, designers concerned with the placement of levers, knobs, controls, etc. in the reachable workspace of a human, and also to users of digital human modeling code, where digital prototyping has become a valuable tool. This paper proposes a hybrid optimization method (gradient-based optimization and simulated annealing) to obtain the layout design. We implemented the proposed algorithm for a project at Oral-B Laboratories, where a manufacturing cell involves an operator who handles three objects, some with the left hand, others with the right hand.