Abstract:

To prevent interface similarity-induced errors in nuclear power plants, this study investigated the impact of interface similarity on cognitive performance and identified the optimal similarity range using semantic differential scale and scenario-based experiments. Firstly, a multi-dimensional perceptual feature system for interface similarity was developed through literature review, and 10 key similarity variables applicable to industrial control scenarios were identified. Secondly, a normalized equation for estimating the overall perceived similarity of nuclear power interfaces was established using semantic differential questionnaire survey and multiple linear regression analysis. Finally, typical interfaces from nuclear procedure tasks and alarm handling tasks were selected as experimental materials. Interface samples with varying levels of similarity were constructed based on three feature dimensions: color, layout structure, and complexity. Subjective questionnaires and scenario-based task experiments were conducted to measure and analyze the optimal range of similarity. The results indicate that interface similarity has a significant impact on operators' cognitive responses. with color, layout, and complexity as core dimensions. Cognitive performance is optimal when the interface similarity falls within the "generally similar" range (4-6).

Key words: nuclear power interface, interface similarity, cognitive performance, visual search, scenario-based task experiment