Computer-aided panel layout using a multi-criteria heuristic algorithm

A systematic multi-criteria method for designing panel layout is proposed here. The algorithm contains two phases: first, to find the selection order of each device, and second, to place these devices into the panels. In the selection phase, the most important device should first be entered and placed in the centre of the panel-the most important device is determined by applying Zeleny’s operational model. The other devices’ entering priorities are are determined by the total relationship rating score. In the placement phase, a spiral placement algorithm is used to place devices into the panels. A computer program is implemented for this multiple criteria panel layout algorithm. A layout which has the average performance of 95.2% to the ideal layout is generated. The layout program allows the designer to make manual adjustments interactively, so as to produce a layout that is preferable to the decision-maker’s.