GALO: A Tool for Command Space Layout Optimization Using a Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

This paper describes a software program that was developed to assist the layout design of collaborative workplaces such as a military command centre. The program assesses layout quality based on its support to operator collaboration and searches for optimal solutions using a genetic algorithm. A simulation experiment was conducted to examine the program’s effectiveness. The study involved the allocation of a 10-person team to a command centre that was pre-configured with a mission control style layout. Across 50 simulation runs, a total of 38 unique optimal layouts were identified. These solutions shared an equivalent quality as measured by the objective metric used by the algorithm. Analytical assessment confirmed their optimality for this design problem. The software program provides a useful tool for human factors practitioners to examine layout options of complex workplaces based on an algorithmic approach.

References

Balakrishnan

Cheng

C. H.

(2000). Genetic search and the dynamic layout problem. Computers and Operations Research, 27, 587-593.

Cormen

T.H.

Leiserson

C.E.

Rivest

R.L.

Stein

(2009). Introduction to Algorithms (3rd Ed), MIT Press.

Dijkstra

E.W.

(1959). A note on two problems in connexion with graphs. Numerische Mathematik, 1, 269-271.

Essens

P. J. M. D.

Post

W. M.

Rasker

P. C.

(2000). Modeling a command center. In Schraagen

J. M. C.

Chipman

S. F.

Shalin

V. L.

(Eds.), Cognitive task analysis (pp. 385-399). Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum.

Goldberg

D. E.

(1989). Genetic algorithms in search, optimization, and machine learning, Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley.

Hendy

K. C.

(1989). A model for human-machine-human interaction in workspace layout problems. Human Factors, 31, 593-610.

Holland

J. H.

(1975). Adaptation in natural and artificial systems, Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press.

Wang

(2009). Joint command support through workspace analysis, design and optimization. Technical report (TR-2009-100), Defence Research and Development Canada, Toronto, ON.

Wang

(2017). An algorithmic solution to improve command centre layout, In Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 2017 Annual Meeting, Santa Monica, CA: Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, 445-449.

10.

Wang

(2018). Optimal configuration of a genetic algorithm for command space layout analysis, In Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 2018 Annual Meeting, Santa Monica, CA: Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, 383-387.