Showing papers on "Page layout published in 2020"

GRIDS: Interactive Layout Design with Integer Programming

Abstract: Grid layouts are used by designers to spatially organise user interfaces when sketching and wireframing. However, their design is largely time consuming manual work. This is challenging due to combinatorial explosion and complex objectives, such as alignment, balance, and expectations regarding positions. This paper proposes a novel optimisation approach for the generation of diverse grid-based layouts. Our mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model offers a rigorous yet efficient method for grid generation that ensures packing, alignment, grouping, and preferential positioning of elements. Further, we present techniques for interactive diversification, enhancement, and completion of grid layouts. These capabilities are demonstrated using GRIDS, a wireframing tool that provides designers with real-time layout suggestions. We report findings from a ratings study (N = 13) and a design study (N = 16), lending evidence for the benefit of computational grid generation during early stages of design.

Optimum layout design of sewer networks by hybrid genetic algorithm

Abstract: To optimize the layout of a sewer network, first, the feasible layouts of the network are generated and then the best layout design is identified from among the numerous possible configurations sub...

Challenges and opportunities toward fully automated analog layout design

Abstract: Realizing the layouts of analog/mixed-signal (AMS) integrated circuits (ICs) is a complicated task due to the high design flexibility and sensitive circuit performance. Compared with the advancements of digital IC layout automation, analog IC layout design is still heavily manual, which leads to a more time-consuming and error-prone process. In recent years, significant progress has been made in automated analog layout design with emerging of several open-source frameworks. This paper firstly reviews the existing state-of-the art AMS layout synthesis frameworks with focus on the different approaches and their individual challenges. We then present recent research trends and opportunities in the field. Finally, we summaries the paper with open questions and future directions for fully-automating the analog IC layout.

GRIDS: Interactive Layout Design with Integer Programming

Abstract: Grid layouts are used by designers to spatially organise user interfaces when sketching and wireframing. However, their design is largely time consuming manual work. This is challenging due to combinatorial explosion and complex objectives, such as alignment, balance, and expectations regarding positions. This paper proposes a novel optimisation approach for the generation of diverse grid-based layouts. Our mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model offers a rigorous yet efficient method for grid generation that ensures packing, alignment, grouping, and preferential positioning of elements. Further, we present techniques for interactive diversification, enhancement, and completion of grid layouts (Figure 1). These capabilities are demonstrated using GRIDS1, a wireframing tool that provides designers with real-time layout suggestions. We report findings from a ratings study (N = 13) and a design study (N = 16), lending evidence for the benefit of computational grid generation during early stages of design.

Review of Power Module Automatic Layout Optimization Methods in Electric Vehicle Applications

Abstract: The layout of power modules is a crucial design consideration, especially for silicon carbide devices. For electrical layout, optimizing the parasitic parameters can improving switching loss and dynamic behavior. For thermal layout, reducing the thermal resistance and controlling thermal capacitance can reduce the local hot point. Conventional layout design iterations are based on human knowledge and experience. But the major drawback of manual design methods is a limited choice of candidates, large time consumption and also the lack of consistency. With the introduce of automatic layout design, these challenges can be overcome which in the meanwhile alleviates current and temperature imbalance. By reviewing element representation, placement, routing, fitness evaluation, and the optimization algorithm approaches, a state-of-the-art power module layout design method for electric vehicle applications is introduced.

A Deep Learning-Based Method for Heat Source Layout Inverse Design

Abstract: Heat source layout design is an effective technique to enhance the thermal performance in the whole system, which has become a vital part in many engineering fields, e.g. satellite layout design and integrated circuit design. Traditionally, the optimal design is obtained by searching the design space with the optimization technique which repeatedly runs the thermal simulation to compare the performance of each scheme. Due to the extremely large computational burden with this method, the optimization is greatly limited. To overcome the challenge, heat source layout inverse design (HSLID) is proposed in this article to directly generate the layout scheme with the given thermal performance requirement. A novel method for heat source layout inverse design, denoted as SAR-HSLID, is proposed based on the recently deep learning technique, Show Attend and Read (SAR) model. Firstly, regarding the mapping from the required temperature field to layout scheme as an image-to-location task, this article introduces SAR model, which is good at sequence predicting, to generate the layout scheme. The trained SAR is capable of learning the underlying physics of the design problem, thus can efficiently predict the design under given requirement without any physical simulation. Secondly, to ensure that the designed heat source layout exactly satisfies the input temperature field requirement, based on the layout predicted by SAR, we further utilize a simple but efficient optimization process to conduct few post-processing. Finally, a heat source layout inverse design task in a typical two-dimensional heat conduction problem is investigated to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.

Cabin Placement Layout Optimisation Based on Systematic Layout Planning and Genetic Algorithm

Abstract: Cabin placement layout is an important part of ship cabin layout design. A good cabin placement layout can improve the efficiency of the ship’s cabin arrangement. However, optimisation of the layout of cabin placement is not widely studied and more often relies on the experience of the staff. Thus, a novel methodology combining systematic layout planning and a genetic algorithm to optimise the cabin placement is presented in this paper. First key elements are converted by a systematic planning method that is often applied in factory layout, and a preliminary cabin placement layout model is established according to these key elements. Then the circulation strength and adjacency strength are taken as sub-objectives to establish a mathematical model, and an improved genetic algorithm is used to optimise the model. The result of the optimisation is compared with the initial schemes to verify the validity of the algorithm. Finally, the human factors are introduced according to the actual situation. The AHP method is used to select the layout scheme of the cabin that is most likely to be applied in the actual cabin layout.

Exploration of Campus Layout Based on Generative Adversarial Network

Abstract: This paper aims to explore the idea and method of using deep learning with a small amount sample to realize campus layout generation. From the perspective of the architect, we construct two small amount sample campus layout data sets through artificial screening with the preference of the specific architects. These data sets are used to train the ability of Pix2Pix model to automatically generate the campus layout under the condition of the given campus boundary and surrounding roads. Through the analysis of the experimental results, this paper finds that under the premise of effective screening of the collected samples, even using a small amount sample data set for deep learning can achieve a good result.

Enhancing the operational performance of mail processing facility layout selection using multi-criteria decision making methods

Abstract: Generally, facility layout design (FLD) has a significant impact on the performance of a manufacturing or service industry which comes under multi-objective problem. Facility layout design is aimed to streamline the work flow and increasing the productivity. This paper attempts to incorporate multi-criteria decision making process (MCDM) methods to find the optimum layout to improve the operational performance through lean service, workplace environment and ergonomics approach. Layout design focuses on identification and elimination of waste (non-value added activities) and comfortable workplace environment with suitable ergonomics conditions in order to achieve the target production. The proposed methods are exemplified through practical applications in Indian postal manual speed post sorting facility layouts. In this case study, we have proposed three methods: analytical hierarchy process (AHP), technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and fuzzy TOPSIS. Empirical results are encouraging for implementing feasible methods in solving a layout design problem.

Chamber layout design optimization of soft pneumatic robots

Abstract: This paper presents a study on improving the mechanical performance of soft pneumatic robots through parameterized layout and shape optimization of air chambers. Most soft robots are designed mainly by using biomimetics or engineering intuition. To fully explore the potential of the soft robots, however, it is highly desirable to develop a rational and systematic method to optimize the structural layout. In particular, structural stiffness of soft pneumatic robots is a key issue to be considered in practical design. This study first shows that the structural layout has a significant impact on the structural stiffness of the soft robot. In the optimization model, the design parameters explicitly defining the layout and shapes of the air chambers are to be optimized. In order to attain adequate structural stiffness so as to enhance the gripping force while improving the delivered motion, the output work is considered as the objective function to be maximized. This optimizaiton model enables a gradient-based mathematical programming algorithm to be used. It is shown through finite element analysis and physical experiments that the optimized layout and shape of the air chambers significantly improve the output work of the soft pneumatic gripper. The method is also adapted to be used in the structural design of a crawling soft robot.

Tangible Web Layout Design for Blind and Visually Impaired People: An Initial Investigation

Abstract: In this poster, we explore the potential of using a tangible user interface (TUI) to enable blind and visually impaired (BVI) developers to design web layouts without assistance. We conducted a semi-structured interview and a co-design session with a blind participant to elicit insights that guided the design of a TUI prototype named Sparsha. Our initial prototype contains 3D printed tactile beads that represent HTML elements, and a 3D printed base that represents the web page layout. BVI users can add an HTML element to the layout by placing tactile beads on top of the base. The base senses the type and location of the beads and renders the HTML element in the corresponding location on the client browser. The poster concludes with a discussion and enumerates future work.

Wire Load Oriented Analog Routing with Matching Constraints

Abstract: As design complexity is increased exponentially, electronic design automation (EDA) tools are essential to reduce design efforts. However, the analog layout design has still been done manually for decades because it is a sensitive and error-prone task. Tool-generated layouts are still not well-accepted by analog designers due to the performance loss under non-ideal effects. Most previous works focus on adding more layout constraints on the analog placement. Routing the nets is thus considered as a trivial step that can be done by typical digital routing methodology, which is to use vias to connect every horizontal and vertical lines. Those extra vias will significantly increase the wire loads and degrade the circuit performance. Therefore, in this article, a wire load oriented analog routing methodology is proposed to reduce the number of layer changing of each routing net. Wire load is considered in the optimization goal as well as the wire length to keep the circuit performance after layout, while the analog layout constraints like symmetry and length matching are still satisfied during routing. As shown in the experimental results, this approach significantly reduces the wire load and performance loss after layout with little overhead on wire length.

Automating the Generation of 3D Multiple Pipe Layout Design Using BIM and Heuristic Search Methods

Abstract: The layout design and spatial coordination of multiple pipe systems is major challenge in the construction industry. The purpose of multiple pipe layout design is to find out an optimal layout for numerous individual pipes to route from a different start locations to different end locations in a 3D environment with no clashes under various kinds of constraints. Currently, pipe layout design is conducted manually by consultants, which is tedious, labor intensive, error-prone, and time-consuming. This paper proposes a BIM-based approach for layout design of multiple pipes using heuristic search methods. Algorithms are developed based on a directed weighted graph according to the physical, design, economical and installation requirements of pipe layout design. Clashes between pipes and with building components are considered and subsequently avoided in the layout optimization. Based on the developed algorithms, simulated annealing (SA) algorithm is used to approximate global optimization in a large search space for multiple pipe layout optimization. As for layout design, Dijkstra algorithm and two heuristic algorithms namely 3D A* and fruit fly optimization algorithm (FOA) are implemented and compared to obtain the multiple pipe system layout design. An example of a typical plant room with nine pipe routes is used to illustrate the developed approach on multiple pipe layout design. The result shows that the developed approach can generate optimal and clash-free multiple pipe system layout. Compared with the conventional method, the developed approach significantly reduces the time and cost for designing multiple pipe layout.

Voting-Based Document Image Skew Detection

Abstract: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is an indispensable tool for technology users nowadays, as our natural language is presented through text. We live under the need of having information at hand in every circumstance and, at the same time, having machines understand visual content and thus enable the user to be able to search through large quantities of text. To detect textual information and page layout in an image page, the latter must be properly oriented. This is the problem of the so-called document deskew, i.e., finding the skew angle and rotating by its opposite. This paper presents an original approach which combines various algorithms that solve the skew detection problem, with the purpose of always having at least one to compensate for the others’ shortcomings, so that any type of input document can be processed with good precision and solid confidence in the output result. The tests performed proved that the proposed solution is very robust and accurate, thus being suitable for large scale digitization projects.

New model for large scale chemical industrial layout optimization

Abstract: Area wide layout is an essential factor that significantly affects the safety, transportation and land occupation of chemical industrial zones. This research proposes a novel methodology to optimize the large-scale area-wide layout design for industrial zones. In layout design, the piping connection between processes is one of the essential issues. However, the complicated pipeline networks and pipe rack have not been taken into account before. Additionally, the current algorithm cannot solve the practical large-scale problem effectively. In this work, a new model and an optimization framework are proposed to solve the general layout problem. In the model, the piping layout and the pipe rack are designed in segments. The layout, pipe connections and pipe arrangement in the pipe rack are optimized simultaneously. Safety, geography and environmental constraints are considered in the optimization. A case study demonstrates the large-scale optimization can effectively reduce the total cost by 14.35% in less than 50 s. The impacts on the area-wide layout of the consideration of multi-utility and pipe rack are also analyzed.

Developing a fuzzy-set-based shortcut layout approach for a semiconductor inter-bay handling system

Abstract: Designing optimal material flow into a semiconductor inter-bay handling’s layout boosts production efficiency, increases yield and throughput, and cuts work-in-process (WIP) as well as cycle time. Intelligent layout of production plants is vital for modern manufacturing, and particularly so for 450-mm wafer-size semiconductor plants. In light of the particular bay nature of a semiconductor plant’s inter-bay, its shortcut design that results on more efficient flow movement become challenging differed from those of a manufacturing system. Additionally, a semiconductor bay’s shortcut layout considerations must address not just how to group stockers, but also how to determine the type of shortcut points and sequence of shortcut locations. Prior to mass production, the assessment expressed by designers’ artificial language, linguistic variable, for the shortcut design phase remains ambiguous and subjective. The need for efficient ways to take designers’ linguistic variables into account in the layout decision increases. The present study suggests a method based on fuzzy set theory to design the shortcut location for a semiconductor inter-bay equipped with a multiple-zone overhead shuttle (OHS) handling system. Unlike traditional layout approaches which can only handle quantitative data with Boolean logic problems, fuzzy-set-based methods offer a way to incorporate the attitude of designers using linguistic variables to represent a problem in decision making when designing semiconductor bay’s shortcut layout. The paper also develops an intelligent hybrid heuristic algorithm incorporating with the goal of maximizing in-sequence movements and minimizing total flow distance to search a better shortcut layout design. An illustrative example from a wafer foundry company is used to demonstrate that the fuzzy-set-based layout design found by the proposed layout method outperforms by other approaches in the OHS travel time, throughput, and flow time performance. The method suggested here can assist semiconductor facility designers in qualitatively and quantitatively improving the material flow and increasing production efficiency by solving their semiconductor bay’s shortcut layout problems.

Information system of tuition and thesis payment verification with adaptive layout design

Abstract: The verification system of tuition and thesis payment at ISB Atma Luhur which is running is felt to be less effective and efficient because students must come directly to campus with proof of payment during working hours to verify the payment. Also, there is the possibility of negligence by the finance department that only stamped the payment slip without doing a flag, consequently, related students were unable to carry out the selection of lecture groups and thesis supervisors when the schedule began. This caused them to not get the favorite lecture groups and thesis supervisors because the quota had run out. To overcome this problem, an information system for verification of tuition payment and web-based thesis verification will be developed with an adaptive layout design so that it can be accessed by laptop or smartphone users without reducing comfort during operation. The system development model and tool used in this research are the waterfall model and the Unified Modeling Language (UML), respectively. The developed system can be used by students to upload proof of payment and monitor the verification status of proof of payment that was previously uploaded. The system can also be used by the finance department to verify payments, as well as display and print payment verification reports. The developed system can be accessed anywhere and anytime so that the efficiency and effectiveness of the verification process are increased.

Layout Guidelines for 3D Printing Devices

Abstract: 3D printing methods are constantly gaining in popularity among investors, allowing for the production of products with a complex structure, and also used in the production of products with increasingly longer production series. It is planned to build factories (or those already under construction) in which 3D printing devices are the basic production devices. It is therefore important to develop guidelines and recommendations for layout design principles for additive technologies’ devices. A question should be asked: will the development of a layout for additive technology machines in future factories differ from the preparation of a layout plan, for example, removal machining devices? Is it safe to assume that the mathematical methods of optimizing the layout of Computerized Relative Allocation of Facilities Technique (CRAFT), Computerized Relationship Layout Planning (CORELAP), and Modified Spanning Tree (MST) workstations or Schmigalla triangles will also work for 3D printing machines and devices? In search of answers to these questions, the article will attempt to apply a selected mathematical method to optimize the layout of workstations when machines and devices of additive technology are deployed for the assumed technological process and implemented according to frequently used Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technologies. A sample layout will be prepared for the assumed production plan and selected 3D printing technologies. Requirements and guidelines relevant to the development of layout plans will be collected regarding the necessary space, installations, and connections.

Parametric layout cell design of N-MOS transistor with enhanced radiation hardened properties

Abstract: NMOS design methodology with increased radiation hardness based on the standard manufacturer's technological libraries is presented. Key model parameters definition are discussed, as well as layout design for parametrized components and connected with layout configuration features when projecting integral layout. Test structures are presented for components characterization in radiation environment.

Planning the New Factory Layout of PT Hartekprima Listrindo using Systematic Layout Planning (SLP) Method

Abstract: PT Hartekprima Listrindo is a manufacturer that produces silent, open and mobile/trailer types of diesel-powered generators, along with AMF/ATS panels and synchronous panels with the HARTECH brand. The generators produce eight Kva power variants up to 3000 Kva power. PT Hartekprima Listrindo plans to increase the production capacity by relocating its factories to a new place. The production capacity of the new plant is planned to achieve 20 generators/year in a 5184 m2 total land area of production. This relocation design uses Systematic Layout Planning (SLP) method, and the layout design is simulated. The SLP method is carried out by describing material flow in the production process using a Multi-Product Process Chart (MPPC), and then continued by using Activity Relationship Chart (ARC) which illustrates the relationship among the activities of the departments. The next stage of layout design is describing the Activity Relationship Diagram (ARD) and Area Allocation Diagram (AAD). The comparison layout design resulted in 2 alternative layouts that are better than the initial layout. The chosen layout design is alternative design 1 because it reduces transportation time and increases movement efficiency.

Efficient layout design automation for multi‐chip SiC modules targeting small footprint and low parasitic

Abstract: It is important to reduce both the size and parasitic of power modules when designing a layout. However, the layout design often relies on experience and was time-consuming. The problem is particularly prominent in silicon carbide (SiC) modules, which requires more parallel dye compared with silicon counterparts. In this study, an algorithm for multi-chip SiC module layout design automation is proposed, which combines genetic algorithm, candidate searching idea, parallel operation and simplified evaluation models for enhancing computational efficiency with reasonable accuracy. A 12-chip half bridge SiC module is studied to verify the feasibility of the proposed method. The results indicate the method is robust and efficient, and can generate optimal layouts with low parasitic inductance and resistance as well as small footprint. It is believed that the method is feasible to guide the automatic optimal layout design for multi-chip SiC modules, targeting small footprint and low parasitic.

Special Optimization Process for Warehouse Layout Design

Abstract: Warehousing activity is essential for all manufacturing companies (final assemblers and suppliers) of the global supply chains. Warehouses are also key elements of global automotive supply chains because the optimal formation and operation of warehouses play important role in manufacturing companies in order to maintain and increase their competitiveness. Warehousing is one of the most important and cost-intensive logistical processes in which the main goal is to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Determination of the ideal warehouse layout is a special optimization process, not a typical mathematical optimization. Therefore, the warehouse layout design has many special characteristics. In the article, the detailed procedure and characteristics of the special optimization process of the warehouse layout design are described. Furthermore, the study also introduces the most commonly used objective functions, their calculation methods, and a large number of design constraints and limitations. The author elaborated a three-step method for defining the ideal warehouse layout which is also introduced in the paper. The main added-value of the study is, that a detailed procedure of the special optimization process of warehouse layout design was elaborated and described by the author. There is a gap in the existing literature in the research topic of the special optimization process of warehouse layout design because there is not available any article which especially discusses the complex and detailed procedure of the special optimization process in any depth.

Safe Three-Dimensional Assembly Line Design for Robots Based on Combined Multiobjective Approach

Abstract: In advanced industrial automation, industrial robots have been widely utilized on assembly lines in order to reduce labor dependence. However, many related layout design approaches proposed are prone to generating unsafe layouts: there generally lacks a consideration regarding robots' heights and assembly range, which will lead to costly collisions in the operation stage. In order to address the problem, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) optimization approach to a safe layout design for an assembly line with robots. We define modeling rules for robots to judge assembly ranges. A quantitative safety indicator is employed as a trigger for 3D collision detection in order to determine the positional relationship and status of the safe assembly collaboration. The optimization goals are established for minimizing the logistical cost and layout area in the model. A combined algorithm of differential evolution and nondominated sequencing genetic II is applied, which effectively enhances the poor diversity and convergence of the mainstream optimization method when solving this model. The benchmark tests and validation proved that our approach yields excellent convergence and distribution performance. The case study verifies that the safe layout model is valid and our approach can generate a safe layout in order to optimize economics and safety.

Method and system for automatically extracting layout design patterns for custom layout design reuse through interactive recommendations

Abstract: Disclosed are method(s), system(s), and article(s) of manufacture for implementing layouts for an electronic design using machine learning, where users re-use patterns of layouts that have been previously implemented, and those previous patterns are applied to create recommendations in new situations.

Expert Guided Analog Layout Placement and Routing Automation for Deep Nanotechnologies

Abstract: This paper presents a new analog layout design tool for placement and routing of circuits using innovative template algorithm to decrease the solution space in an effective way then an optimization method to choose the best placement using satisfiability modulo theories SMT linear Solver. This tool is built in a way to consider the most advanced techniques used in today`s industrial products as well today advanced deep nodes to decrease the design cycle and layout iterations. This tool extracts the main sub-blocks types from the schematics then starts processing on each sub-block alone to find the best matching pattern that satisfies the block constraints and estimate the needed routing taking the parasitic into consideration, then using the SMT solver to find the best area to fit the design.

Layout Design of Warehouse Based on Systematic Layout Planning and GA-ACO Algorithm

Abstract: In the modern logistics process, the warehouse is responsible for storage, processing, and order management. Therefore, the number of functional areas inside the warehouse increases. Using the systematic layout planning (SLP) cannot obtain the optimal layout plan. The combination of genetic algorithm and SLP has become a commonly used method to obtain a layout plan. Genetic algorithm has local optimization, making the obtained layout not the optimum solution. Aiming at this problem, a fusion scheme of ant colony genetic algorithm is proposed. The experimental results show that the layout plan obtained by the method proposed in this paper has a higher comprehensive relationship.