Process management using component thermal-hydraulic function classes
US5930315A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 12, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 27, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 12, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S706/915
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A process management expert system where following malfunctioning of a component, such as a pump, for determining system realignment procedures such as for by-passing the malfunctioning component with on-line speeds to maintain operation of the process at full or partial capacity or to provide safe shut down of the system while isolating the malfunctioning component. The expert system uses thermal-hydraulic function classes at the component level for analyzing unanticipated as well as anticipated component malfunctions to provide recommended sequences of operator actions. Each component is classified according to its thermal-hydraulic function, and the generic and component-specific characteristics for that function. Using the diagnosis of the malfunctioning component and its thermal hydraulic class, the expert system analysis is carried out using generic thermal-hydraulic first principles. One aspect of the invention employs a qualitative physics-based forward search directed primarily downstream from the malfunctioning component in combination with a subsequent backward search directed primarily upstream from the serviced component. Generic classes of components are defined in th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.