Method and apparatus for coordinating operation of valves

Abstract

A method and apparatus for coordinating operation of a valve are disclosed. In some examples, an apparatus includes a valve controller to receive a first signal from a first control system to change an operating state of a valve, the valve controller providing exclusive control of the valve for the first control system. In some examples, the valve controller receives a second signal from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve, and sends a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to methods and apparatus for operating valves, and more specifically, to methods and apparatus for coordinating the operation of valves. Background Technology

[0002] In traditional process control environments, valves are placed in manual mode for routine maintenance. For example, a valve in a process control environment can be placed in manual mode via a local interface on the valve controller. In some examples, a physical lock may be placed on the valve to prevent other valve controllers from operating the valve during maintenance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Methods and apparatus for coordinating the operation of valves are disclosed. In some disclosed examples, an apparatus includes a valve controller for receiving a first signal from a first control system to change the operating state of the valve, the valve controller providing exclusive control of the valve to the first control system. In some disclosed examples, the valve controller receives a second signal from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve, and sends a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve.

[0004] In some disclosed examples, a method includes receiving a first signal at a valve controller from a first control system to change the operating state of a valve, the valve controller providing exclusive control of the valve to the first control system. In some disclosed examples, the method includes receiving a second signal at a valve controller from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve, and sending a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve.

[0005] In some disclosed examples, a non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions, when executed, to cause a valve controller to perform the following operations: receive a first signal from a first control system to change the operating state of a valve, the valve controller providing exclusive control of the valve to the first control system. In some disclosed examples, the non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions, when executed, to cause the valve controller to perform the following operations: receive a second signal from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve, and send a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a first example of a process control environment for coordinating valve operation;

[0007] Figure 2 This is a second example of a process control environment used to coordinate the operation of valves;

[0008] Figure 3 This is a third example of a process control environment used to coordinate the operation of valves;

[0009] Figure 4 It means that it is possible Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 A flowchart of an example method executed at the example valve controller to coordinate the operation of the valve;

[0010] Figure 5 It is capable of executing instructions to implement Figure 4 Methods and Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Example processor platform for example valve controller.

[0011] The figures disclosed herein are not to scale. Where possible, the same reference numerals will be used in the figures and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or similar parts. Detailed Implementation

[0012] A traditional process control environment may include one or more control systems communicating with multiple valve controllers that independently control corresponding valves among multiple valves. Thus, during an event (e.g., maintenance, shutdown, startup, etc.), multiple control systems may attempt to operate a given valve. For example, a first control system might perform maintenance on a valve and have exclusive control over it. During maintenance, an event may occur, and a second control system may request to operate the valve but be unable to do so. This is problematic because the second control system cannot identify which control system is controlling the valve and cannot operate the valve to resolve the event.

[0013] In a traditional process control environment, the first control system can operate using a first communication protocol (e.g., MODBUS, HART, Profibus, DeviceNet, Profinet, Ethernet IP, Foundation Fieldbus, etc.), while the second control system can operate using a second communication protocol that is different from the first communication protocol.

[0014] Furthermore, for a given valve, one communication protocol can override another. For example, a first control system might need to perform maintenance on the valve and might use the MODBUS communication protocol to operate the valve in manual mode. During maintenance, a second control system using the HART communication protocol could override the first control system and operate the valve in automatic mode. Overriding the first control system jeopardizes the maintenance and may be unsafe because the first control system can no longer operate the valve.

[0015] Unlike the traditional process control environments described above, the methods and apparatus disclosed herein enable valve controllers to coordinate valve operation between automatic and manual modes in multiple control systems.

[0016] As used herein, the term "automatic mode" refers to a valve controller automatically outputting a signal that includes and / or carries data and / or information constituting and / or indicating a corresponding control signal to control the corresponding valve. As used herein, the term "manual mode" refers to a valve controller being operated locally (e.g., via a local screen, button, maintenance handheld device connected to the valve controller, etc.) and / or via a control system to output signals to control the corresponding valve.

[0017] The implementation of a valve controller that coordinates valve operation among multiple control systems offers numerous advantages over the conventional process control environments described above. For example, because the disclosed valve controller receives a first signal from a first control system to operate the valve and provides exclusive control of the valve to the first control system, other control systems cannot control the valve. Accordingly, the first control system is the exclusive operator of the valve and cannot be overtaken by another control system unless the valve is operated locally. Furthermore, because the disclosed valve controller sends a response indicating which control system has exclusive control over the valve, any requesting control system can quickly identify which control system is operating the valve, for example, in an emergency.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a first example process control environment 100, which includes an example valve controller 102 for coordinating valve operation among multiple control systems. Figure 1 In the example shown, the process control environment 100 includes a valve controller 102, a first example valve 104 having a first example flow control member 106, a first example actuator 108, a first example control system 110, a second example control system 112, and a local control system 114.

[0019] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, valve controller 102 is operatively coupled to a first actuator 108, a first control system 110, a second control system 112, and a local control system 114. Valve controller 102 is also operatively coupled to a first valve 104 (e.g., a control valve, isolation valve) via the first actuator 108. Therefore, Figure 1 The valve controller 102 can control the first valve 104 via communication (such as signals, messages, etc.) sent from the valve controller 102 to the first actuator 108.

[0020] For example, in response to a control signal (such as a pneumatic control signal, hydraulic control signal, electrical control signal, etc.) sent from valve controller 102 to first actuator 108 (such as a pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, solenoid, etc.), first actuator 108 moves and / or adjusts the position of first flow control member 106 (such as a valve plug, valve disc, valve ball) of first valve 104 so that the position of first flow control member 106 matches the desired position (such as the closed position) indicated by the control signal.

[0021] although Figure 1 Example process control environment 100 illustrates a specific number of control systems, valves, specific valve types, and a specific arrangement of control systems and valve types relative to each other. In other examples, process control environment may include any number of additional control systems, valves, any number of valve types, and any arrangement of control systems and valve types relative to each other.

[0022] Figure 1 The valve controller 102 controls the position of the first valve 104 based on example control signals received by the valve controller 102 from the programmable logic circuit (PLC) 116 and / or more generally from the first control system 110. In some examples, the control signals correspond to a setpoint associated with the position of the first valve 104 (such as the desired position of the first valve 104). Figure 1 In the example shown, the control signal includes and / or carries data and / or information to control the position of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104.

[0023] For example, during automatic mode operation, from Figure 1 The control signal from the first control system 110 can instruct the valve controller 102 that the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 will be in the open position. Thus, in the illustrated example, the valve controller 102 instructs the actuator 108 to adjust the position of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 so that the position of the first flow control member 106 matches the open position. During automatic mode operation, the valve controller 102 can continuously operate the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 between, for example, the open position and the closed position. In some examples, the valve controller 102 can operate the flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 between different positions to increase / decrease the fluid flow rate through the first valve 104.

[0024] To operate the first valve 104 in manual mode, a control system within the control system (such as the first control system 110, the second control system 112, and the local control system 114) sends a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104 in manual mode. In response to the requesting control system, the valve controller 102 grants that control system exclusive control to operate the first valve 104. For example, the first control system 110 may send a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104 in manual mode. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 grants exclusive control to first control system 110 to operate first valve 104. Additionally, second control system 112 may send a control signal to valve controller 102 requesting operation of first valve 104. In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 sends a response to second control system 112 indicating that first control system 110 has exclusive control to operate first valve 104 and that first control system 110 is operating first valve 104 in manual mode. In some examples, first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate first valve 104 until first control system 110 sends a control signal to valve controller 102 to return first valve 104 to automatic mode operation. Alternatively, valve controller 102 may return first valve 104 to automatic mode operation after a period of time, for example, by revoking the exclusive control of first control system 110. In some examples, valve controller 102 may determine that first control system 110 is offline (e.g., lost connection, poor network connection, offline, etc.). Thus, valve controller 102 can return first valve 104 to automatic mode operation after a period of time, for example, by revoking the exclusive control of first control system 110. In some examples, first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate first valve 104 and an event may occur. During the event, second control system 112 may send a control signal to valve controller 102 requesting operation of first valve 104. In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 sends a response to second control system 112 instructing first control system 110 to have exclusive control to operate first valve 104. Second control system 112 may send a request to first control system 110 to operate first valve 104. In the illustrated example, first control system 110 sends a control signal to valve controller 102 to return first valve 104 to automatic mode operation. Thus, second control system 112 may send a control signal to valve controller 102 requesting operation of first valve 104, and valve controller 102 may grant second control system 112 exclusive control to operate first valve 104 to resolve the event.

[0025] In some examples, the first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and an event may occur. During the event, the local control system 114 may be used to operate the first valve 104. Thus, the local control system 114 can override the first control system 110 to operate the first valve 104 to resolve the event.

[0026] Figure 2 It includes Figure 1 The second example process control environment 200 is the valve controller 102 shown in the example. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the process control environment 200 includes a valve controller 102, a first example valve 104 having a first example flow control component 106, a first example actuator 108, a first example control system 110, a second example control system 112, and the aforementioned... Figure 1 The local control system 114 of the first example process control environment also includes a second example valve 202 having a second example flow control component 204 and a second example actuator 206.

[0027] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 is operatively coupled to first actuator 108, second actuator 206, first control system 110, second control system 112, and local control system 114. Figure 2 The valve controller 102 is also operatively coupled to the first valve 104 via the first actuator 108 and to the second valve 202 via the second actuator 206. Therefore, Figure 2 The valve controller 102 can control the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 via communications (e.g., signals, messages, etc.) sent from the valve controller 102 to the corresponding first actuator 108 and / or the corresponding second actuator 206.

[0028] For example, in response to a control signal (such as a pneumatic control signal, hydraulic control signal, electrical control signal, etc.) sent from valve controller 102 to first actuator 108 (such as a pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, solenoid, etc.), the first actuator 108 moves and / or adjusts the position of the first flow control member 106 (such as a valve plug, valve disc, valve ball) of the first valve 104 so that the position of the first flow control member 106 matches the desired position (such as the closed position) indicated by the control signal. As another example, in response to a control signal (such as a pneumatic control signal, hydraulic control signal, electrical control signal, etc.) sent from valve controller 102 to second actuator 206 (such as a pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, solenoid, etc.), the second actuator 206 moves and / or adjusts the position of the second flow control member 204 (such as a valve plug, valve disc, valve ball, etc.) of the second valve 202 so that the position of the second flow control member 204 matches the desired position (such as the closed position) indicated by the control signal. As another example, in response to a control signal (such as a pneumatic control signal, a hydraulic control signal, an electrical control signal, etc.) sent from the valve controller 102.

[0029] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the second valve 202 is operatively arranged in series with the first valve 104. For example, the second valve 202 may be arranged in series with the first valve 104 such that when the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 are in the open position, Figure 2 The process fluid traveling in the indicated flow direction passes through the first valve 104 and then through the second valve 202. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the first valve 104 is an isolation valve, and the second valve 202 is a control valve. In other examples, the first valve 104 may be a valve of a type other than an isolation valve (such as a control valve, etc.), and the second valve 202 may be a valve of a type other than a control valve (such as an isolation valve, etc.). Although Figure 2 Example process control environments 200 illustrate a specific number of control systems, valves, specific valve types, and a specific arrangement of control systems and valve types relative to each other. However, in other examples, process control environments may include any number of additional control systems, valves, any number of valve types, and any arrangement of control systems and valve types relative to each other.

[0030] Figure 2 The valve controller 102 controls the position of the first valve 104 and the position of the second valve 202 based on control signals received by the valve controller 102 from the PLC 116 and / or more generally from the first control system 110. In some examples, the control signals correspond to setpoints associated with the position of the first valve 104 (such as the desired position of the first valve 104) and / or setpoints associated with the position of the second valve 202 (such as the desired position of the second valve 202). Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the control signal includes and / or carries data and / or information to control the corresponding position of one of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202.

[0031] For example, during automatic mode operation, from Figure 2 The control signal from the first control system 110 can instruct the valve controller 102 to place the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 in the open position. Thus, the valve controller 102 of the illustrated example instructs the actuator 108 to adjust the position of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and instructs the actuator 206 to adjust the position of the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 so that the positions of the first flow control member 106 and the second flow control member 204 match their respective open positions. During automatic mode operation, for example, the valve controller 102 can continuously operate each of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 between the open and closed positions. In some examples, during automatic mode, the valve controller 102 can operate the flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 between different positions to increase / decrease the fluid flow rate through the first valve 104 and the second valve 202.

[0032] To operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 in manual mode, one of the control systems (such as the first control system 104, the second control system 112, or the local control system 114) sends a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 in manual mode. In response to the request from the control system, the valve controller 102 grants that control system exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202. For example, the first control system 110 sends a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 in manual mode. Figure 2In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 grants exclusive control to first control system 110 to operate first valve 104 and second valve 202. Furthermore, second control system 112 can send a control signal to valve controller 102 requesting operation of first valve 104. In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 sends a response to second control system 112 instructing first control system 110 to have exclusive control to operate first valve 104 and second valve 202. In some examples, first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate first valve 104 until first control system 110 sends a control signal to valve controller 102 to return first valve 104 to automatic mode. Thus, second control system 112 can request operation of first valve 104, and valve controller 102 can grant second control system 112 exclusive control to operate valve 104. Therefore, first control system 110 can have exclusive control to operate second valve 202, and second control system 112 can have exclusive control to operate valve 104. Alternatively, valve controller 102 can return the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 to automatic mode operation after a period of time, for example, by revoking exclusive control of the first control system 110. In some examples, valve controller 102 can determine that the first control system 110 is offline (e.g., lost connection, poor network connection, etc.). In this case, controller 102 can return the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 to automatic mode operation after a period of time, for example, by revoking exclusive control of the first control system 110.

[0033] In some examples, the first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202, and an event may occur. During this event, the second control system 112 may send a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104. In the illustrated example, the valve controller 102 sends a response to the second control system 112 instructing the first control system 110 to have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104. The second control system 112 may send a request to the first control system 110 to operate the first valve 104. In the illustrated example, the first control system 110 sends a control signal to the valve controller 102 to operate the valve 104 back to automatic mode. Thus, the second control system 112 may send a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104, and the valve controller 102 may grant the second control system 112 exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 to resolve the event, while still granting the first control system 110 exclusive control over the second valve 202.

[0034] In some examples, the first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202, and an event may occur. During this event, the local control system 114 may be used to operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202. Thus, the local control system 114 can override the first control system 110 to operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 to resolve the event.

[0035] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated example, a first transmitter 208 is operatively positioned between a first valve 104 and a second valve 202. The first transmitter 208 can sense, measure, and / or detect first process data (such as one or more pressure values, one or more flow values, one or more temperature values, etc.) between the first valve 104 and the second valve 202. For example, when the first transmitter 208 is implemented as a pressure transmitter, it can sense, measure, and / or detect first pressure data corresponding to the pressure between the first valve 104 and the second valve 202. The first transmitter 208 can transmit the first process data (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) to the valve controller 102 and / or the first control system 110, respectively. In some examples, the first process data may include and / or indicate diagnostic information corresponding to the availability of the second valve 202 for maintenance. For example, first pressure data corresponding to the pressure sensed, measured, and / or detected at the first transmitter 208 can indicate that the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 have successfully cut off the flow of process fluid (e.g., so that the process fluid no longer flows between the first valve 104 and the second valve 202), thereby making the second valve 202 available for maintenance during manual mode.

[0036] Figure 3 It includes Figure 1 The example valve controller 102 is a third example process control environment 300. Figure 3 In the example shown, the process control environment 300 includes the above-mentioned Figure 1 The first example process control environment 100 includes a valve controller 102, a first example valve 104 having a first example flow control component 106, a first example actuator 108, a first example control system 110, a second example control system 112, and a local control system 114, and also includes... Figure 2 The second example process control environment 200 includes a second example valve 202 with a second example flow control component 204 and a second example actuator 206.

[0037] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, valve controller 102 is operatively coupled to first actuator 108, second actuator 206, first control system 110, second control system 112, and local control system 114. Figure 3 The valve controller 102 is also operatively coupled to the first valve 104 via the first actuator 108, and to the second valve 202 via the second actuator 206. Thus, Figure 3 The valve controller 102 can control the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 via communications (such as signals, information, etc.) sent from the valve controller 102 to the first actuator 108 and / or the second actuator 106.

[0038] For example, in response to a control signal (such as a pneumatic control signal, hydraulic control signal, electrical control signal, etc.) sent from valve controller 102 to a first actuator 108 (such as a pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, solenoid, etc.), the first actuator 108 moves and / or adjusts the position of a first flow control member 106 (such as a valve plug, valve disc, valve ball) of the first valve 104 so that the position of the first flow control member 106 matches the desired position (such as the closed position) indicated by the control signal. As another example, in response to a control signal (such as a pneumatic control signal, hydraulic control signal, electrical control signal, etc.) sent from valve controller 102 to a second actuator 206 (such as a pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, solenoid, etc.), the second actuator 206 moves and / or adjusts the position of a second flow control member 204 (such as a valve plug, valve disc, valve ball) of the second valve 202 so that the position of the second flow control member 204 matches the desired position (such as the closed position) indicated by the control signal.

[0039] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the second valve 202 is operatively positioned in parallel with the first valve 104. For example, the second valve 202 may be positioned in parallel with the first valve 104 to enable... Figure 3 In the example first flow line 302, the first process fluid traveling in the example flow direction passes through the first valve 104. Figure 3 In the example of the second flow line 304, the second process fluid traveling in the flow direction flows through the second valve 202, and the first and second process fluids traveling through the first and second flow lines 302, 304 are... Figure 3 Example of a mixed fluid pipeline merging at point 306. Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the first valve 104 is an isolation valve, and the second valve 202 is a control valve. In other examples, the first valve 104 may be a valve of a type other than an isolation valve (such as a control valve, etc.), and the second valve 202 may be a valve of a type other than a control valve (such as an isolation valve, etc.). Although Figure 3The example process control environment 300 illustrates a specific number of control systems, valves, specific valve types, and a specific arrangement of control systems and valve types relative to each other. However, in other examples, the process control environment may include any number of additional control systems, valves, any number of valve types, and any arrangement of control systems and valve types relative to each other.

[0040] Figure 3 The valve controller 102 controls the position of the first valve 104 and the position of the second valve 202 based on control signals received by the valve controller 102 from the PLC 116 and / or more generally, for example, from the first control system 110. In some examples, the control signals correspond to setpoints associated with the position of the first valve 104 (such as the desired position of the first valve 104) and / or setpoints associated with the position of the second valve 202 (such as the desired position of the second valve 202). Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the control signal includes and / or carries data and / or information to control the respective positions of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202.

[0041] For example, during automatic mode operation, from Figure 1 The control signal from the first control system 110 can instruct the valve controller 102 to place the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 in the open position. Thus, the illustrated valve controller 102 instructs the actuator 108 to adjust the position of the first flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and instructs the actuator 206 to adjust the position of the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 so that the positions of the first flow control member 106 and the second flow control member 204 match their respective open positions. During automatic mode operation, for example, the valve controller 102 can continuously operate each of the flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the second flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 between the open and closed positions. In some examples, during automatic mode operation, the valve controller 102 can operate the flow control member 106 of the first valve 104 and the flow control member 204 of the second valve 202 between different positions to increase / decrease the fluid flow rate through the first valve 104 and the second valve 202.

[0042] To operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 in manual mode, one of the control systems (such as the first control system 110, the second control system 112, or the local control system 114) sends a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 in manual mode. In response to the request from the control system, the valve controller 102 grants that control system exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202. For example, the first control system 110 may send a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 in manual mode. Figure 3 In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 grants exclusive control to first control system 110 to operate first valve 104 and second valve 202. Furthermore, second control system 112 can send a control signal to valve controller 102 requesting operation of first valve 104. In the illustrated example, valve controller 102 sends a response to second control system 112 instructing first control system 110 to have exclusive control to operate first valve 104 and second valve 202. In some examples, first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate first valve 104 until first control system 110 sends a control signal to valve controller 102 to return first valve 104 to automatic mode operation. Thus, second control system 112 can request operation of first valve 104, and valve controller 102 can grant second control system 112 exclusive control to operate first valve 104. In this way, first control system 110 can have exclusive control to operate second valve 202, and second control system 112 can have exclusive control to operate first valve 104. Alternatively, valve controller 102 can return the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 to automatic mode operation after a period of time, for example, by revoking exclusive control of the first control system 110. In some examples, valve controller 102 can determine that the first control system 110 is offline (e.g., lost connection, poor network connection, etc.). Thus, valve controller 102 can return the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 to automatic mode operation after a period of time, for example, by revoking exclusive control of the first control system 110.

[0043] In some examples, during manual mode, the first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202, and an event may occur. During this event, the second control system 112 may send a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104. In the illustrated example, the valve controller 102 sends a response to the second control system 112 instructing the first control system 110 to have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104. The second control system 112 may send a request to the first control system 110 for control over the first valve 104. In the illustrated example, the first control system 110 sends a control signal to the valve controller 102 to return the first valve 104 to automatic mode operation. Thus, the second control system 112 may send a control signal to the valve controller 102 requesting operation of the first valve 104, and the valve controller 102 may grant the second control system 112 exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 to resolve the event, while still granting the first control system 110 exclusive control over the second valve 202.

[0044] In some examples, the first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202, and an event may occur. During this event, the local control system 114 may be used to operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202. Thus, the local control system 114 can override the first control system 110 to operate the first valve 104 and / or the second valve 202 to resolve the event.

[0045] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the first control system 110 may have exclusive control to operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202. In some examples, the first control system 110 may operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 between different positions to increase / decrease the fluid flow rate through the mixing fluid line 306. For example, the first control system 110 may operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 at a 50% open position. An event requiring maintenance of the first valve 104 may occur. Thus, for example, the first control system 110 may operate the first valve 104 to a 0% open position (e.g., a closed position) and may operate the second valve 202 to a 100% open position to maintain the fluid flow rate through the mixing fluid line 306. In the illustrated example, after the first valve 104 has been maintained, the first control system 110 may operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 back to the 50% open position and operate the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 back to automatic mode.

[0046] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, example transmitter 308 is operated at... Figure 3Downstream of the first valve 104 and the second valve 202 within the mixing flow line 306. Transmitter 308 can sense, measure, and / or detect the passage of... Figure 3 The mixed fluid pipeline 306 incorporates process data of the process fluids (such as one or more pressure values, one or more flow rates, one or more temperature values, one or more density values, one or more viscosity values, one or more opacity values, etc.). For example, when implemented as a temperature transmitter, transmitter 308 can sense, measure, and / or detect the flow of the mixed fluids. Figure 3 The transmitter 308 transmits temperature data corresponding to the temperature of the combined process fluids in the mixing flow line 306. The transmitter 308 can send process data (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) to the valve controller 102 and / or control system 110. In some examples, the transmitted process data (e.g., measured and / or sensed temperature values) can be compared with a process data setpoint (e.g., a temperature setpoint) (e.g., via control system 110). In instances where the transmitted process data does not match the process data setpoint, control system 110 can adjust the flow by generating a control signal. Figure 3 The first and / or second valves 104, 202 respond to the corresponding positions, thereby enabling the travel through Figure 3 The combined process fluid of the mixed fluid line 306 displays the desired process data (e.g., process data matching the process data set point).

[0047] Although the example way of implementing the example valve controller 102 is in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 As shown in the example, but in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 One or more elements, processes, and / or devices illustrated herein may be combined, divided, rearranged, omitted, eliminated, and / or otherwise implemented. Additionally, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3The valve controller 102 can be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Therefore, for example, the valve controller 102 can be implemented by one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, one or more programmable processors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or one or more field-programmable logic devices (FPLDs). When reading any of the device or system claims of this patent to cover implementations that are purely software and / or firmware, the valve controller 102 is hereby explicitly defined as a tangible computer-readable storage device or storage disk that includes the storage of software and / or firmware, such as memory, digital versatile disc (DVD), compact disc (CD), Blu-ray disc, etc. Additionally, besides... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Those other than or replaced by those exemplified in the text Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or

[0048] Figure 3 those exemplified in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Example valve controller 102 may include one or more elements, processes and / or devices, and / or may include more than one of any or all of the illustrated elements, processes and devices.

[0049] Figure 4 The diagram shows a flowchart representing an example method 400 for operating a coordinating valve. In this example, method 400 can be implemented using machine-readable instructions, including instructions for use by means of, such as, combined below. Figure 5 The example processor platform 500 discussed herein refers to one or more programs executed by a controller or processor such as the example processor 502. These programs may be embodied as software stored on a tangible computer-readable storage medium such as a CD-ROM, floppy disk, hard disk, digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, or memory associated with the processor 502; however, the entire program and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by a device other than the processor 502 and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware. Furthermore, although one or more example programs refer to… Figure 4 The flowchart illustrated herein is for illustrative purposes only; however, many other methods for coordinating valve operation can be used instead. For example, the execution order of the blocks can be changed, and / or some of the blocks described can be altered, eliminated, or combined.

[0050] As mentioned above, Figure 4Example method 400 can be implemented using coded instructions (such as computer and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on a tangible computer-readable storage medium, such as a hard disk drive, flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), cache, random access memory (RAM), and / or any other storage device or disk in which information is stored for any period of time (such as extended period of time, permanent, transient, for temporary buffering, and / or for caching information). As used herein, the term "tangible computer-readable storage medium" is explicitly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or disk, and excludes propagated signals and transmission media. As used herein, "tangible computer-readable storage medium" and "tangible machine-readable storage medium" are used interchangeably. Additionally or alternatively, Figure 4 The example methods can be implemented using coded instructions (such as computer and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on a non-transitory computer and / or machine-readable medium, such as a hard disk drive, flash memory, read-only memory, compact disk, digital multifunction disk, cache, random access memory, and / or any other storage device or disk in which information is stored for any period of time (such as extended time period, permanent, transient, for temporary buffering, and / or for caching information). As used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable medium" is explicitly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or disk, and excludes propagated signals and transmission media. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term in the preamble of the claims, it ends in the same way that the term "comprising" ends in an open-ended manner.

[0051] Figure 4 Example method 400 in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Example valve controller 102 performs actions to coordinate valve operation. When Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 When the valve controller 102 receives the first signal (block 402) from the first control system, Figure 4 Example method 400 begins. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 receives a first signal from the first control system 110 requesting a change in the operating state of the first valve 104. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 provides exclusive control of the first valve 104 to the first control system 110.

[0052] At box 404 Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 receives a second signal from the second control system. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 receives a second signal from the second control system 112 requesting permission to operate the first valve 104.

[0053] At box 406, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 sends a response to the second control system. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 sends an instruction to the second control system 112 indicating that the first control system 110 has exclusive control over the first valve 104 and has changed the operating state of the first valve 104.

[0054] At box 408, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 determines whether it is still receiving signals from the first control system. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 determines whether it is still receiving signals from the first control system 110, indicating that the first control system 110 is still online. If Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 If the valve controller 102 determines that it is still receiving signals from the first control system, then example method 400 ends. However, if Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 If the valve controller 102 determines that it is no longer receiving signals from the first control system, then... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Valve controller 102 cancels exclusive control of the first control system (block 410), and the method returns to block 402. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The valve controller 102 determines that it is no longer receiving signals from the first control system 110, indicating that the first control system 110 is offline. Thus, for example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Valve controller 102 cancels the exclusive control of the first control system 110.

[0055] Figure 5 It is capable of executing instructions to implement Figure 4 Method 400 and Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The example valve controller 102 is an example processor platform 500. The illustrated example processor platform 500 includes an example processor 502. The illustrated example processor 502 is hardware. For example, the processor 502 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, or controllers from any desired family or manufacturer. The illustrated example processor 502 includes local memory 504 (such as a cache).

[0056] The illustrated processor 502 communicates with main memory via bus 510, which includes volatile memory 506 and non-volatile memory 508. Volatile memory 506 may be implemented using synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), RAMBUS dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), and / or any other type of random access storage device. Non-volatile memory 508 may be implemented using flash memory and / or other desired types of storage devices. Access to volatile memory 506 and non-volatile memory 508 is controlled by a memory controller.

[0057] For storing software and / or data, the illustrated processor 502 also communicates with one or more large storage devices 512. Examples of such large storage devices 512 include floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, compact disk drives, Blu-ray disc drives, RAID systems, and digital multifunction disc (DVD) drives.

[0058] The illustrated example processor platform 500 also includes user interface circuitry 514. User interface circuitry 514 can be implemented using any type of interface standard, such as an Ethernet interface, Universal Serial Bus (USB), and / or PCI Fast Interface. In the illustrated example, one or more example input devices 516 are connected to user interface circuitry 514. One or more input devices 516 allow users to input data and instructions into processor 502. One or more input devices 516 can be implemented, for example, one or more buttons, one or more switches, a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, and / or a liquid crystal display with a touchscreen. One or more example output devices 518 are also connected to the illustrated example user interface circuitry 514. One or more output devices 518 can be implemented, for example, using one or more light-emitting diodes for presenting visual information, one or more speakers for presenting auditory information, and / or display devices (such as liquid crystal displays, cathode ray tube displays, etc.) for presenting text or image information. The illustrated example user interface circuitry 514 can therefore include a graphics driver, such as a graphics driver chip or processor.

[0059] The illustrated processor platform 500 also includes network communication interface circuitry 520 to facilitate the exchange of data and / or signals with external machines via network 522. In some examples, network 522 may be facilitated via 4-20mA cabling and / or via one or more communication protocols including, for example, Foundation Fieldbus, High-Speed ​​Addressable Remote Sensor (HART), Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Profinet, Modbus, and / or Ethernet.

[0060] Used to implement Figure 4 The encoded instructions 524 of method 400 can be stored in local memory 504, volatile memory 506, non-volatile memory 508, mass storage device 512, and / or a removable tangible computer-readable storage medium such as a CD or DVD.

[0061] Based on the above, it will be appreciated that the disclosed method and apparatus advantageously provide the ability to coordinate valve operation across multiple control systems. For example, since the disclosed valve controller receives a first signal to operate the valve from a first control system and provides exclusive control of the valve to the first control system, other control systems cannot control the valve. Accordingly, the first control system is the exclusive operator of the valve, and cannot be overtaken by another control system unless the valve is operated locally. Furthermore, because the disclosed valve controller sends a response indicating which control system has exclusive control of the valve, any requesting control system can quickly identify which control system is operating the valve, for example, in an emergency. The disclosed method and apparatus improve the safety and operation of the process control environment by coordinating valve operation.

[0062] Although certain example apparatuses and methods have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all apparatuses and methods that fall entirely within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. An apparatus for coordinating operation of a valve, comprising: A valve controller receives a first signal from a first control system to change an operating state of a valve, the valve controller providing the first control system with exclusive control of the valve; receives a second signal from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve; and sends a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The first control system and the second control system are communicatively coupled to the valve controller.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The first control system operates using a first communication protocol, the second control system operating using a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The first control system changes the operating state of the valve from an automatic mode to a manual mode.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: A local control system coupled to the valve controller.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein, The local control system overrides the first control system to operate the valve.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The valve controller sends a response indicating that the first control system no longer has exclusive control of the valve after a period of time.

8. A method for coordinating operation of a valve, comprising: A valve controller receives a first signal from a first control system to change an operating state of a valve, the valve controller providing the first control system with exclusive control of the valve; receives a second signal from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve; and sends a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The first control system and the second control system are communicatively coupled to the valve controller.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein, The first control system operates using a first communication protocol, the second control system operating using a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein, The first control system changes the operating state of the valve from an automatic mode to a manual mode.

12. The method of claim 8, further comprising a local control system coupled to the valve controller.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, The local control system overrides the first control system to operate the valve.

14. The method of claim 8, further comprising: A response is sent to the first control system and the second control system indicating that the first control system no longer has exclusive control of the valve after a period of time.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause a valve controller to perform at least the following: receive a first signal from a first control system to change an operating state of a valve, the valve controller providing the first control system with exclusive control of the valve; receive a second signal from a second control system requesting permission to operate the valve; and send a response to the second control system indicating that the first control system has exclusive control of the valve and has changed the operating state of the valve.

16. The computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein, The first control system and the second control system are communicatively coupled to the valve controller.

17. The computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein, The first control system operates using a first communication protocol, the second control system operating using a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol.

18. The computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein, The first control system changes the operating state of the valve from an automatic mode to a manual mode.

19. The computer-readable medium of claim 15, further comprising a local control system coupled to the valve controller.

20. The computer readable medium of claim 19, wherein, The local control system overrides the first control system to operate the valve.

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