Video/CAD animation: a technical tool for simplifying the human task in nuclear plant maintenance

Nuclear plant maintenance requires detailed procedures and carefully controlled processes. Key goals are to complete the tasks safely, efficiently, and at a minimum cost. Design efforts focused on simplification of the human task in plant maintenance can save money and effort while enhancing worker safety. A discussion is presented on the use of one technical tool, video animation, as both a design aid and a training aid. The project discussed is the replacement of the actuator for a motor-operated valve. Video/CAD (computer-aided design) animation was found to be a valuable design tool that can simplify the human task in nuclear plant maintenance.<>