Design of computerized operator support system for technical specification monitoring

Abstract

A critical but difficult task performed by the operators of nuclear power plants (NPPs) is monitoring their operation in compliance with their technical specification (Tech Spec). The volume of the document, complexity of the contents, high workload, diversity of the interpretation, and time dependence are the representative challenges encountered by operators. To address these challenges, several researchers have attempted to develop operator support systems that can assist operators to perform Tech-Spec-related activities. However, complying with a Tech Spec requires various types of monitoring functions, and a rule-based system is not typically an efficient method. Therefore, this paper proposes a computerized operator support system for monitoring a Tech Spec. First, this study analyzes the structure and the surveillance requirements in a Tech Spec. Second, artificial intelligence techniques are reviewed. Third, the architecture of the system is proposed. Finally, this paper introduces a prototype for monitoring a Tech Spec.