Operator behaviour on the S3C computerized control simulator for 1400 MW (N4) PWRs

In 1984 Electricite de France decided to equip the new 1400 MW(e) series of PWR plants (the first unit of which is to be put into service in 1991) with a fully computerized control room. Following this decision, the control room in question was evaluated using an integral representation simulator. A first series of evaluations aimed at assessing control in normal and incident situations was conducted in 1987 and yielded valuable information on the man-machine interface, work-station ergonomics, knowledge based aspects and organization of work. The superiority of this type of control room over traditional control rooms was demonstrated and much of the experience gained on the simulator was taken into account in the construction of the first unit, both in the specifications for the information treatment and dialogue systems and in the design and fitting out of the control room. A second series of evaluations relating to control in accident situations will be conducted in 1989 after additional functions and information treatment systems have been incorporated in the simulator. (author). 5 refs, 1 fig