Method and apparatus for verifying valve position parameters

Abstract

Methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture are disclosed for verifying valve position parameters. An example apparatus includes a field device and a valve position verifier apparatus, the field device further including a sensor interface for receiving raw valve position parameters from a sensor, and a position comparator for determining a deviation between the raw valve position parameters and interpreted valve position parameters. The valve position verifier apparatus further includes a parameter comparator for determining whether the deviation exceeds a threshold, and an alarm generator for generating an alarm when the parameter comparator determines that the deviation exceeds the threshold.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to valve control systems and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for verifying position parameters of a valve. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, process control systems (such as those used in chemical, petroleum, and / or other processes) have become increasingly complex with the proliferation of field devices that include increased processing capabilities. Contemporary process control systems include a greater number and variety of field devices or instruments used to measure and / or control different aspects of the process control environment. In addition to utilizing field devices to monitor and / or control core processes, field devices have also been increasingly used for peripheral tasks, such as self-diagnostic testing.

[0003] Process control systems in which a field device fails or degrades during operation (e.g., a component of the field device fails or degrades) may experience increased downtime. Field device failure / degradation during operation may also result in undesirable operating conditions if the failed field device provides erroneous or inaccurate data to the process control system. The likelihood of a failed field device causing an undesirable operating condition can be mitigated by implementing redundant feedback circuitry in the field device.

[0004] Field devices within process control systems may be located in harsh environments (such as areas with extreme vibration, high voltage, and / or wide temperature ranges) that can accelerate failures. As increasingly powerful field devices are implemented at increasingly lower costs, process control systems can implement field devices capable of performing self-diagnostics. Using self-diagnostics to monitor field devices in a redundant manner can mitigate the impact of potentially failing field devices and enable technicians to replace these potentially failing field devices during scheduled maintenance, rather than halting system operations to replace the field devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An example apparatus for verifying a position parameter of a valve includes a field device and a valve position verifier apparatus, wherein the field device further includes a sensor interface for receiving unprocessed valve position parameters from a sensor and a position comparator for determining a deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameters and an interpreted valve position parameter, the valve position verifier apparatus further including a parameter comparator for determining whether the deviation exceeds a threshold and an alarm generator for generating an alarm when the parameter comparator determines that the deviation exceeds the threshold.

[0006] An example method for verifying a position parameter of a valve includes receiving an unprocessed valve position parameter from a sensor, determining a deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and an interpreted valve position parameter, determining whether the deviation exceeds a threshold, and generating an alarm in response to determining that the deviation exceeds the threshold.

[0007] An example non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for validating a valve position parameter includes instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to at least: receive an unprocessed valve position parameter from a sensor, determine a deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and an interpreted valve position parameter, determine whether the deviation exceeds a threshold, and generate an alarm when it is determined that the deviation exceeds the threshold. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an example valve position verifier apparatus and field device in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of an example implementation of a field device.

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of an alternative example implementation of a field device.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of an example implementation of an example valve position verifier apparatus is shown.

[0012] Figure 5-6 Yes means you can use Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method performed by an example valve position verifier apparatus to verify one or more position parameters of a valve.

[0013] Figure 7 is constructed to execute machine-readable instructions to implement Figure 5-6 Methods and Figure 1 and / or a block diagram of an example processing platform for an example valve position verifier apparatus of FIG.

[0014] Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and accompanying written description to refer to the same or like parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Process control systems are becoming increasingly complex as individual components with increasing data acquisition resolution, processing power, and signal conditioning are developed. Process control systems are used to monitor and / or control various aspects of operations performed in a process control environment, such as, for example, manufacturing components, processing raw chemical materials, etc. Process control systems typically include at least one controller with associated inputs and outputs that allow the controller to acquire signals from various input field devices and / or instruments and control various output field devices and / or instruments.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "field device" and "instrument" refer to control devices such as, for example, actuators, actuator assemblies, actuator controllers, actuator positioners, sensors, transmitters, valve assemblies, etc., which can be used in an overall process control system to measure and / or control different aspects of the process control system (e.g., other process control devices). A field device such as a valve (e.g., a valve assembly) can include both electrical and mechanical components. For example, a valve can include electronic components such as a digital valve positioner, a flow sensor, a pressure sensor, a travel sensor, a valve controller, etc. In another example, a valve can include mechanical components such as an actuator (e.g., a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, etc.), a mechanical housing, a process connection, etc.

[0017] Field device failures may be caused by a variety of reasons (such as, for example, continuous operation, environmental factors, manufacturing defects, etc.). In some examples, field devices may operate in high-cycle applications. For example, a valve may continuously perform a full-stroke operation, which includes adjusting the valve stroke from fully open to fully closed and from fully closed to fully open. Such a full-stroke valve can be designed to achieve an extended operating life cycle. However, the timing of inevitable failures may be unpredictable and may occur during operation. Not knowing when a field device is expected to fail or is about to reach a state of imminent failure poses a serious problem for the continuous operation of existing process control systems. Sudden field device failures during operation may cause loss of the field device and the equipment that the field device is monitoring and / or controlling.

[0018] The examples disclosed herein relate to process control systems, and more specifically, to verifying valve position parameters. Generally, these examples determine valve position parameters and deviations between valve position parameter values. In response to the calculated deviation exceeding a determined threshold, the examples disclosed herein further generate an alarm condition. Although the examples described below are described as being applicable to process control systems including valves, the teachings of the present disclosure may be more generally applicable to parameters associated with other devices in a process control system, such as actuators, solenoids, data acquisition modules, pumps, thermal management systems, and the like.

[0019] As will be described in greater detail below, examples disclosed herein provide a valve position verifier (VPV) device for verifying one or more position measurements of a valve. More specifically, the VPV device disclosed herein obtains valve information from a sensing / field device, such as, for example, an actuator controller (e.g., a valve controller), a position sensor (e.g., a digital valve position, a position transmitter, a proximity sensor, etc.), a process sensor (e.g., a flow sensor, a pressure sensor, etc.), and the like. In some examples, the valve information may include parameters related to the operation of the valve (e.g., valve parameters). Furthermore, the valve parameters may include parameters directly related to the position of the valve, such as a command or input signal (e.g., a travel setpoint, a commanded position of the valve, a command signal to an actuator, etc.), a valve position or valve travel (e.g., the position of the valve, the measured position of the valve, etc.), a valve position interpretation (e.g., an interpretation of a valve position signal received from a sensor), a drive signal, and the like.

[0020] In some examples, the VPV device determines which valve position parameters are available based on the power status of a sensing device included in the field device that distributes the valve position parameters to the VPV device. In some examples, the VPV device may determine that the valve controller is powered. In such examples, the VPV device may calculate the deviation between the valve position interpreted by the valve controller and the raw valve position measurement received from the field device. Additionally or alternatively, the VPV device may determine that the position transmitter is powered. In such examples, the VPV device may calculate the deviation between the valve position interpreted by the position transmitter and the raw valve position measurement received from the field device.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, the VPV device may determine that the valve controller and the position sensor are powered. In such an example, the VPV device may calculate a deviation between at least one of the valve controller's interpretation of the valve position, the position transmitter's interpretation of the valve position, and a valve position measurement received by the field device. In some examples, the VPV device may further utilize a voting scheme (e.g., determining a valve position that is common to a majority of the measurements) to determine the current position of the valve.

[0022] In some examples, the VPV device calculates a threshold deviation between at least one pair of valve parameters. For example, the VPV device may calculate a threshold deviation between the position of a valve as interpreted by a valve controller and the position of the valve as received by a field device. Additionally or alternatively, the VPV device may calculate a threshold deviation between the position of a valve as interpreted by a position transmitter and the position of the valve as received by a field device. Additionally or alternatively, the VPV device may calculate a threshold deviation between the position of a valve as interpreted by a position transmitter and the position of the valve as interpreted by a valve controller.

[0023] In some examples, the threshold deviation can be a predefined value set by at least one of a computer algorithm and / or a user / administrator of the process control environment. Additionally or alternatively, the threshold deviation can be a dynamic value set by the computer algorithm that changes based on instantaneous or historical operation of the process control system. Additionally or alternatively, the threshold deviation can be a value utilized to confirm that a field device meets the accuracy safety function requirements specified in the device certificate for the device.

[0024] In some examples, the VPV device compares a threshold deviation of a pair of valve parameters to a difference value received from a field device. In such examples, the VPV device may generate an alarm in response to the received difference value of the pair of valve parameters exceeding the threshold deviation of the pair of valve parameters. In some such examples, the generated alarm may be an audible or visual alarm, such as a stack light, a buzzer, a siren, and / or any other form of audio / visual prompt.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the generated alert may be a notification sent to a user / administrator of the process control system. For example, the generated alert may be a short message service (SMS) text message sent to a phone number associated with the user / administrator of the process control system. In another such example, the generated alert may be an electronic mail (e-mail) message sent to an email address associated with the user / administrator of the process control system.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, the generated alarm may be a notification sent to a higher-level controller in the process control system (e.g., a programmable logic controller (PLC), a plant-level controller, a cloud computing device, etc.). For example, the notification may be a digital data packet indicating the alarm condition that is sent to the higher-level controller. Additionally or alternatively, the notification may be a digital output signal (e.g., a high signal output, a 5 volt output signal, a 12 volt output signal, a 20 milliamp output signal, etc.) sent from a digital output of the VPV device to the higher-level controller.

[0027] As will be discussed in greater detail below in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, a VPV device can have various configurations that may depend on the type of valve and / or characteristics associated with the process control environment in which the valve is disposed. In the examples disclosed herein, these configurations can be varied or altered to optimize the ability of the VPV device to detect a faulty field device before the failure of the device impairs continued operation of the process control system.

[0028] Go to Figure 1 The example valve position verifier (VPV) apparatus 100 disclosed herein operates in a process control environment 102 by obtaining valve position information of a valve assembly 103 from a field device 104. Figure 2 A first example implementation of the field device 104 is further described, and in conjunction with Figure 3 A second example implementation is further described. In some examples, the field device 104 may also include an electronic valve controller, a wireless valve position transmitter, a wired valve position, etc. In the example shown, the VPV apparatus 100 and the field device 104 are housed in a housing 106 and coupled to an example pneumatically actuated valve assembly 103, which includes at least an actuator 110, a valve 112 (e.g., a butterfly valve, a gate valve, etc.), and a sensor 113 (e.g., an encoder, a Hall effect sensor, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a travel sensor, etc.).

[0029] However, other valve assemblies may additionally or alternatively be used, such as electrically actuated valve assemblies, hydraulically actuated valve assemblies, etc. In the illustrated example, the field device 104 includes an electronic valve controller that utilizes a sensor 113 to measure one or more parameters of the actuator 110 and / or valve 112 (e.g., the position of the valve 112 ) and / or to control the actuator 110 and / or valve 112 .

[0030] In addition, the field device 104 can utilize sensors 113 to measure parameters such as, for example, valve travel (e.g., valve position), actuator pressure, drive signals, etc. The field device 104 can control the actuator 110 and / or valve 112 using parameters such as, for example, commands or input signals (e.g., travel set points). The housing 106 of the field device 104 includes a connection point for a pneumatic tube connection 114. The field device 104 can also implement pneumatic control of the actuator 110 via the pneumatic tube connection 114.

[0031] In the example shown, the valve assembly 103 is installed in a fluid handling system 116 (e.g., a distribution piping system) in a factory environment or processing system. The fluid handling system 116 may be located in an environment that may expose the field device 104 to one or more difficult operating conditions (e.g., extreme vibration, wide temperature ranges, etc.) and cause premature failure of the field device 104. For example, the field device 104 may be installed downstream of a positive displacement pump and subjected to extreme vibration. Different failure modes of the field device 104 may occur due to damage and / or degradation of electrical components of the field device 104 caused by the extreme vibration.

[0032] In the example shown, the field device 104 is coupled to the example VPV installation 100. Although the field device 104 is Figure 1104 is depicted as being coupled to the example VPV device 100 via a physical connection, but the field device 104 and the VPV device 100 may alternatively be coupled via a network, including, for example, one or more data buses, one or more local area networks (LANs), one or more wireless LANs, one or more cellular networks, one or more private networks, one or more public networks, etc. The example VPV device 100 obtains at least one of the interpreted and / or measured valve position parameters during operation (e.g., an operating process) in addition to obtaining the deviation between the interpreted and / or measured valve position parameters from the field device 104. Additionally, at least one of the VPV device 100 and the field device 104 may be communicatively coupled to a process control system 118 that includes a controller for data acquisition and / or processing.

[0033] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a first example implementation 200 of a field device 104. In some examples, the example field device 104 can include an example power supply 202, an example sensor interface 204, an example valve controller 206, an example position transmitter 208, and an example position comparator 210.

[0034] An example power supply 202 included in or otherwise implemented by the field device 104 can power one or more components of the field device 104, which in some examples can include a sensor interface 204, a valve controller 206, a position transmitter 208, and a position comparator 210. In some examples, the power supply 202 can be controlled by an automated process and turned on / off based on at least one of a predetermined schedule and / or a dynamic schedule based on one or more parameters of the process control environment 102. Additionally or alternatively, the power supply 202 can be manually controlled by a user / operator operating in the process control environment 102. In some examples, the power supply 202 can independently power each of the sensor interface 204, the valve controller 206, the position transmitter 208, and the position comparator 210 (e.g., one or more of these components can be turned on / off individually). In some examples, the power supply 202 is also used to transmit at least one of a power status of the field device 104 or a power status of a component included in the field device 104 (eg, the sensor interface 204 , the valve controller 206 , etc.).

[0035] An example sensor interface 204 included in or otherwise implemented by the field device 104 can receive signals from a sensor 113 (e.g., an encoder, a Hall effect sensor, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a travel sensor, etc.). In some examples, the received signal is an analog voltage corresponding to a valve parameter output by the sensor 113. Additionally or alternatively, the received signal can be a data packet including a digital representation of the valve parameter as output by the sensor 113 (e.g., a hexadecimal value based on a communication protocol data packet). In some examples, the sensor interface will also distribute the received signal to at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208.

[0036] The example valve controller 206 and the example position transmitter 208, each included in or otherwise implemented by the field device 104, are capable of receiving raw signals from the sensor interface 204 and independently interpreting (e.g., converting) them into valve parameters (e.g., valve position, valve state, valve temperature, actuator current, etc.) in a desired format. In some examples, the valve controller 206 and / or the position transmitter 208 perform calculations based on the raw signals received from the sensor interface 204, where the raw signals may include analog electrical signals (e.g., voltage amplitude, current measurement, etc.), digital electrical signals (e.g., hexadecimal values ​​based on communication protocol packets), etc.

[0037] In some examples, the valve controller 206 and / or the position transmitter 208 may calculate the valve position parameter based on the raw voltage value and a calibration curve relating the raw analog voltage value to the valve position (e.g., the valve 112 is 100% closed, the valve 112 is 50% closed, the valve 112 is 25% open, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the valve controller 206 and / or the position transmitter 208 may calculate the valve position parameter based on the raw digital electrical signal (e.g., based on a hexadecimal value of a communication protocol packet) and a lookup table relating the raw digital electrical signal to the valve position (e.g., the valve 112 is 100% closed, the valve 112 is 50% closed, the valve 112 is 25% open, etc.).

[0038] In response to determining one or more valve position parameters, the valve controller 206 and / or the position transmitter 208 may further distribute the valve position parameters, independently interpreted by at least one of the valve controller 206 and / or the position transmitter 208, to at least one of the process control system 118 and the position comparator 210. In some examples, the interpreted valve position parameters distributed to at least one of the process control system 118 and the position comparator 210 may be distributed as an analog current (e.g., a 4-20 mA current loop signal) corresponding to the valve parameter as output by the sensor 113.

[0039] Additionally, the example valve controller 206 can control the position of the valve 112 via the actuator 110. In some examples, the valve controller 206 determines the position to which the valve 112 is to be commanded. In some examples, the position to which the valve 112 is to be commanded can be automatically determined by the process control system 118. In such examples, a computer can determine the position to which the valve 112 is to be commanded or moved based on a desired flow parameter for the valve 112. Additionally or alternatively, the position to which the valve 112 is to be commanded can be determined by a user / operator.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, valve controller 206 determines a desired position of valve 112 and utilizes this desired position of valve 112 in a closed control loop in addition to an interpreted valve position parameter, which is interpreted based on the signal received from sensor 133 at sensor interface 204. In such an example, the desired position of valve 112 may be an input to the closed control loop, and the valve position parameter received from sensor interface 204 and interpreted by valve controller 206 may be a feedback signal in the closed control loop. Furthermore, in such an example, the closed control loop may utilize a controller (e.g., a PI controller, a PID controller, a model-based controller, etc.) to determine a control signal based on the input signal (e.g., the desired valve position) and the feedback signal (e.g., the valve position parameter). In some examples, the desired position of valve 112 may be automatically determined by a computer. In such an example, the computer may determine the desired position of valve 112 based on a desired flow parameter of valve 112. Additionally or alternatively, the desired position of valve 112 may be determined by a user / operator.

[0041] In response to determining at least one of the command position, control signal, and interpreted valve position parameter of the actuator 110, the valve controller 206 may further distribute at least one of the command position, control signal, and interpreted valve position parameter to at least one of the actuator 110 and the position comparator 210.

[0042] In addition to independently interpreting the valve position parameter, the example position transmitter 208 can also distribute the interpreted valve position parameter to at least one of the process control system 118 and the position comparator 210. In some examples, the interpreted valve position parameter is distributed as a 4-20 mA signal (e.g., a 4-20 mA analog signal, a 4-20 mA current loop, a current sink, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the interpreted valve parameter can be distributed wirelessly via a network (such as any suitable wired and / or wireless network including, for example, one or more data buses, one or more local area networks (LANs), one or more wireless LANs, one or more cellular networks, one or more private networks, one or more public networks, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the interpreted valve position parameter can be distributed as any digital and / or analog signal.

[0043] The position comparator 210 included in or otherwise implemented by the field device 104 is capable of receiving one or more signals including at least one of an unprocessed valve position parameter received from the sensor interface 204, an interpreted / processed valve position parameter from the valve controller 206, and an interpreted / processed valve position parameter from the position transmitter 208.

[0044] Additionally, in some examples, the position comparator 210 can determine a deviation between one or more pairs of received valve position parameters. For example, the position comparator 210 can determine a deviation between at least one of: a valve position parameter interpreted by the valve controller 206 and a valve position parameter interpreted by the position transmitter 208, a valve position parameter interpreted by the valve controller 206 and an unprocessed valve position parameter received by the sensor interface 204, and a valve position parameter interpreted by the position transmitter 208 and an unprocessed valve position parameter received by the sensor interface 204.

[0045] In some examples, the position comparator 210 can include circuitry configured to sum and / or subtract received signals corresponding to valve position parameters to determine a deviation between the parameters. Additionally or alternatively, the position comparator 210 can include computer-implemented hardware and / or software configured to determine a deviation between the received parameters. In response to calculating one or more deviations, the position comparator 210 can also distribute at least one of the received valve position parameters and the calculated deviations to the valve position verifier device 100.

[0046] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an alternative example implementation 300 of the field device 104. Figure 3In the illustrated example, the power supply 202 does not provide power to the valve controller 206, and the field device 104 in this configuration is used for the functionality of the position transmitter 208, including transmitting the valve position parameter to the process control system 118. In such an example, the position comparator 210 does not receive the interpreted valve position parameter from the valve controller 206. Therefore, in such an example, the position comparator 210 is used only to determine the deviation between the interpreted valve position parameter received from the position transmitter 208 and the raw valve position parameter received from the sensor interface 204.

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 1 is a block diagram of an example implementation of a VPV device 100. The example VPV device 100 utilizes parameters received from a field device 104 to determine whether a deviation between valve position parameters exceeds a threshold. For example, the VPV device 100 may determine whether a deviation between at least one of an interpreted valve position parameter determined by the valve controller 206, an interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter 208, and an unprocessed valve position parameter received by the sensor interface 204 exceeds a threshold. The example VPV device 100 includes an example collection engine 400, an example database 410, an example power state determiner 420, an example threshold calculator 430, an example parameter comparator 440, and an example alarm generator 450. The example VPV device 100 is communicatively coupled to the example field device 104.

[0048] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated example, the VPV device 100 includes a collection engine 400 for acquiring, selecting, and processing valve position parameters (e.g., a measured position of the valve, a commanded position of the valve, a power state of the field device, deviations between valve position parameters, etc.) of the valve 112. For example, the collection engine 400 may acquire, select, and process valve position parameters acquired from the field device 104. In another example, the collection engine 400 may acquire, select, and process valve position parameters from a database 410. In yet another example, the collection engine 400 may acquire, select, and process valve position parameters from the field device 104 via a direct wired or wireless connection.

[0049] In some examples, the collection engine 400 obtains valve position parameters from one or more valves during a normal operating period of the one or more valves (e.g., during an operating valve process, during an operating process control system process, etc.). In some examples, the collection engine 400 obtains processed valve parameters, where the processed valve parameters include processed valve position parameters (e.g., scaled parameters, converted parameters, etc.). In some cases, the collection engine 400 obtains unprocessed valve parameters, where the unprocessed valve parameters include unprocessed valve position parameters (e.g., unscaled parameters, unconverted parameters, etc.).

[0050] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated example, the collection engine 400 processes the valve position parameters by categorizing them by information type. For example, the valve position parameters may include a string of data separated by one or more data delimiters (e.g., a hash mark "#," a space, a comma, etc.). The valve position information between the data delimiters may represent a timestamp and / or value of the valve position parameter. The timestamp may indicate the time when the field device 104 recorded and / or processed the valve position parameter, the time when the VPV device 100 obtained the valve position parameter, etc. In some examples, the timestamp includes a date and time. However, any other timestamp format may be used in addition or alternatively. For example, the timestamp may include a time zone identifier, and the time may be formatted using 12-hour notation, 24-hour notation, Unix time notation, etc.

[0051] In some examples, the valve position information between the data delimiters may represent a description of the valve position parameter. For example, the description may include the name of the valve position parameter (e.g., command position, first measured position, second measured position, etc.), the unit of measurement of the valve position parameter (e.g., milliamperes, volts, inches, millimeters, feet, etc.), and the like. In some examples, the collection engine 400 processes the valve position parameter by determining whether the valve position parameter is a calculated parameter based on whether the valve position parameter requires further calculation. For example, a valve position parameter with length-based measurement units (e.g., inches, millimeters, feet, etc.) is a previously processed calculated parameter. Alternatively, a valve position parameter with electrical signal-based units (e.g., milliamperes, volts, watts, etc.) is unprocessed and requires further calculation. For example, a calibration curve may be used to convert the electrical signal parameter to a length-based parameter.

[0052] exist Figure 4In the illustrated example, the VPV device 100 includes a database 410 for recording data (e.g., deviation thresholds, measured valve position values, commanded valve position values, actual deviation values, deviation trend values, etc.). In some examples, the database 410 records flags (e.g., a valve position measurement invalid flag) and / or variables associated with the acquired data. For example, the VPV device 100 may set the valve position measurement invalid flag in the database 410. The example database 410 may respond to queries for information related to the data in the database 410. For example, the database 410 may respond to queries for additional data by providing additional data (e.g., one or more data points), by providing an index associated with the additional data in the database 410, etc. When there is no additional data in the database 410, the example database 410 may additionally or alternatively respond to the query by providing a null index, the end of the database 410 identifier, etc. The example database 410 may be implemented by volatile memory (e.g., synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), RAMBUS dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), etc.) and / or non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory). The example database 410 may additionally or alternatively be implemented by one or more double data rate (DDR) memories (e.g., DDR, DDR2, DDR3, mobile DDR (mDDR), etc.). The example database 410 may additionally or alternatively be implemented by one or more mass storage devices (e.g., hard disk drives, compact disk drives, digital versatile disk drives, etc.). Although in the illustrated example, the database 410 is illustrated as a single database, the database 410 may be implemented by any number and / or type of databases.

[0053] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the VPV device 100 includes a power status determiner 420 for determining the power status of components of the field device 104 (e.g., the sensor interface 204, the valve controller 206, the position transmitter 208, and / or the position comparator 210). In some examples, the power status determiner 420 determines the status of the field device 104 based on a power status signal received from the field device 104. Additionally or alternatively, the power status determiner 420 can determine the power status of the field device 104A based on receiving a valve position parameter from the field device 104. For example, if the VPV device 100 is receiving a valve position measurement from the field device 104, the field device 104 must be powered.

[0054] Upon determining the power status of the components of the field device 104 , the power status determiner 420 also transmits the power status of the components of the field device 104 to the database 410 for storage.

[0055] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated example, the VPV device 100 includes a threshold calculator 430 for calculating a threshold deviation between the interpreted and / or received positions of the valve. In some examples, the threshold calculator calculates the threshold based on which of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 is powered. For example, if the power state determiner 420 determines that both the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 are powered, the threshold calculator 430 calculates a threshold deviation between at least one of: a valve position parameter interpreted by the valve controller 206 and a valve position parameter interpreted by the position transmitter 208, a valve position parameter interpreted by the valve controller 206 and a raw valve position parameter received by the sensor interface 204, and a valve position parameter interpreted by the position transmitter 208 and a raw valve position parameter received by the sensor interface 204.

[0056] In some examples, the threshold calculator 430 calculates the threshold based on input from a user / operator operating in the process control environment 102. Additionally or alternatively, the threshold is an automatically calculated value that is calculated based on one or more parameters of the process control environment 102. For example, a process with a tighter control range (e.g., a process that requires precise actuation of the valve 112) may utilize a lower threshold than a process with a wider control range (e.g., a process that does not require precise actuation of the valve 112). Additionally or alternatively, the threshold deviation may be a value utilized to confirm that the field device 104 meets the accuracy safety function requirements (e.g., a percentage deviation between values ​​less than or equal to 5%, a deviation between values ​​less than 2 mm, etc.) as specified in the device certificate of the field device 104. In some examples, the threshold calculator 430 may further distribute the calculated threshold to the database 410.

[0057] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the VPV device 100 includes a parameter comparator 440 for comparing one or more deviation thresholds calculated by the threshold calculator 430 with one or more actual deviations received by the collection engine 400 from the field device 104. In some examples, the parameter comparator 440 compares the deviation threshold to the actual deviation by subtracting the actual deviation from the deviation threshold. If subtracting the actual deviation (e.g., the comparison value) from the deviation threshold produces a negative number (e.g., -3 mm, -5 inches, -2 mA, etc.), the parameter comparator 440 can determine that the actual deviation exceeds the threshold. Alternatively, if subtracting the actual deviation from the deviation threshold produces a positive number (e.g., 4 mm, 3 inches, 4 mA, etc.), the parameter comparator 440 can determine that the actual deviation does not exceed the threshold.

[0058] Additionally or alternatively, parameter comparator 440 can determine whether a percentage deviation between valve position parameters exceeds a threshold. In such an example, parameter comparator 440 is further configured to determine a percentage deviation between one or more pairs of valve position parameters received from field device 104. For example, if the raw valve position parameter is 50 mm and the valve position parameter interpreted by valve controller 206 is 49 mm, the percentage deviation is 2%. The calculated percentage deviation is then compared to a received threshold percentage deviation value received from threshold calculator 430. In some examples, when parameter comparator 440 receives the raw valve position parameter, the valve position parameter interpreted by valve controller 206, and the valve position parameter interpreted by position transmitter 208, parameter comparator 440 can further apply a voting scheme to the received parameters. For example, parameter comparator 440 can determine the current valve position using a majority rule with respect to the received parameters (e.g., two of the three received parameters).

[0059] In some examples, parameter comparator 440 may further distribute one or more of the comparison values ​​to database 410. Additionally or alternatively, parameter comparator 440 may distribute flags to database 410 for any deviations that exceed their corresponding thresholds.

[0060] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated example, the VPV device 100 includes an alarm generator 450 for determining an alarm condition based on a determination by the parameter comparator 440 that a deviation received from the field device 104 exceeds a threshold value calculated by the threshold calculator 430. In some examples, the alarm generator 450 stores a data set related to the alarm condition in the database 410. Furthermore, in such examples, the data set stored in the database 410 may include information regarding each valve position parameter whose deviation exceeds the threshold value. For example, the data set may include a position specified by a parameter (e.g., 25% closed, 75% open, 24 mm, etc.), a timestamp for the parameter, a deviation between two or more parameters, and the like.

[0061] In response to identifying that an alarm condition exists, the example alarm generator 450 can generate an alarm based on instructions received from the database 410, such as, for example, sounding an alarm, propagating an alarm message throughout the process control network, generating a fault log and / or report, displaying an alarm on a display, etc.

[0062] In some examples, the alarm generator 450 can propagate the alarm to a process control data acquisition system. In such examples, the process control data acquisition system can further utilize the generated alarm to make a process control decision for the process control environment 102. In some examples, the control decision can instruct the process control environment 102 to close the valve 112. Additionally or alternatively, the control decision can instruct the process control environment 102 to divert fluid flow away from the valve 112. Additionally or alternatively, the control decision can instruct the process control environment 102 to restrict fluid flow within the valve 112.

[0063] Although Figure 4 The implementation is shown in Figure 1 The VPV device 100 is an example embodiment of the present invention, but may be combined, divided, rearranged, omitted, eliminated and / or implemented in any other manner. Figure 4 Furthermore, the example collection engine 400, the example database 410, the example power state determiner 420, the example threshold calculator 430, the example parameter comparator 440, the example alert generator 450, and / or more generally, Figure 1 The example VPV device 100 may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Thus, for example, any of the example collection engine 400, the example database 410, the example power state determiner 420, the example threshold calculator 430, the example parameter comparator 440, the alarm generator 450, and / or more generally, the example VPV device 100 may be implemented by one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, programmable processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or field programmable logic devices (FPLDs). When any apparatus or system claim of this patent is read to cover a purely software and / or firmware implementation, at least one of the example collection engine 400, the example database 410, the example power state determiner 420, the example threshold calculator 430, the example parameter comparator 440, and / or the alarm generator 450 is expressly defined herein as including a non-transitory computer-readable storage device or storage disk (such as a memory, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a compact disk (CD), a Blu-ray disk, etc.) that includes the software and / or firmware. Furthermore, Figure 1 An example VPV device 100 may include a Figure 4One or more elements, processes and / or devices in addition to or in place of those shown, and / or may include more than one of any or all of the elements, processes and devices shown. As used herein, the phrase "in communication" (including variations thereof) encompasses direct communication and / or indirect communication through one or more intermediate components, and need not be direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or continuous communication, but also includes selective communication occurring at periodic intervals, predetermined intervals, non-periodic intervals and / or one-time events.

[0064] exist Figure 5-6 The following table shows a representative method for implementing Figure 1 Flowchart of an example method of a VPV device 100. In this example, the method may be implemented using machine-readable instructions including instructions for a processor (such as the following in conjunction with Figure 7 The program may be embodied in software stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a CD-ROM, floppy disk, hard drive, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray disk, or memory associated with the processor 712, but the entire program and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by devices other than the processor 712 and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware. Furthermore, although reference is made to Figure 5-6 The flowchart shown in the describes an example program, but many other methods of implementing the example VPV device 100 may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be changed, and / or some of the blocks described may be changed, eliminated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all of the blocks may be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuits, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), comparators, operational amplifiers (op-amps), logic circuits, etc.) configured to perform the corresponding operations without executing software or firmware.

[0065] As mentioned above, Figure 5-6The example process of can be implemented using encoded instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on a non-transient computer and / or machine-readable medium (such as a hard drive, flash memory, read-only memory, compact disk, digital versatile disk, cache, random access memory and / or any other storage device or storage disk), in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., for an extended period of time, permanently, for a short moment, for temporary buffering, and / or for a cache of the information). As used herein, the term non-transient computer-readable medium is explicitly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or storage disk and excludes propagation signals and excludes transmission media. "Include" and "comprising" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used as open terms in this article. Therefore, whenever a claim lists anything after any form of "include" or "comprising" (e.g., including, including, including, including, including, etc.), it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. can exist without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim or narrative. As used herein, the phrase "at least" when used as a transition term, such as in the preamble of a claim, is open ended in the same manner as the terms "comprises" and "comprising" are open ended. The term "and / or" when used, for example, in a form such as A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, and C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B together, (5) A and C together, and (6) B and C together.

[0066] Figure 5 The example method 500 for verifying one or more position parameters of a valve begins execution at block 502. At block 502, the power status determiner 420 checks the power status of each of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208. At block 504, based on the power status check completed at block 502, the power status determiner 420 further determines whether at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 is powered. In response to at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 being powered, processing transfers to block 506. Alternatively, in response to each of these devices being powered off, processing transfers to block 508.

[0067] At block 506, Figure 6 In further detail, the VPV device 100 verifies one or more received / interpreted position parameters of the valve based on at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 being powered. In response to completing processing at block 506 , processing transfers to block 508 .

[0068] At block 508, the VPV device 100 determines whether it is desired to continue monitoring the valve position measurement. In some examples, the valve position measurement is monitored continuously. Additionally or alternatively, the valve position parameter is monitored as long as at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 is powered. Additionally or alternatively, the valve position parameter is monitored based on a schedule determined by a user / operator operating in the process control environment 102. Additionally or alternatively, the valve position parameter is monitored based on a schedule determined by a computer using at least one of a predetermined schedule and / or a schedule that is dynamically updated based on one or more parameters of the process control environment 102. In response to determining that it is desired to continue monitoring the valve position parameter, processing returns to block 502 of the example method 500. Alternatively, in response to determining that it is no longer desired to continue monitoring the valve position parameter, Figure 5 The example method 500 ends.

[0069] Figure 6 An example method that may be performed to verify a position parameter of a valve when at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 is powered is shown in FIG. Figure 5 , block 506). Referring to the previous figures and associated descriptions, Figure 6 The example method begins execution at block 602, where the collection engine 400 receives valve position parameters from one or more powered devices. For example, the collection engine 400 may receive raw valve position parameters when the field device 104 is powered, receive valve position parameters interpreted by the valve controller 206 when the valve controller 206 is powered, and receive valve position parameters interpreted by the position transmitter 208 when the position transmitter 208 is powered. In some examples, at block 602, the collection engine 400 also distributes the received valve position parameters to the database 410.

[0070] At block 604, the threshold calculator 430 calculates a threshold deviation between the values ​​received by the collection engine 400 at block 602. For example, the threshold calculator 430 may calculate a threshold deviation between an unprocessed valve position parameter and a valve position parameter interpreted by the valve controller 206 at block 604. In some examples, the threshold calculator 430 calculates the threshold based on input from a user / operator operating in the process control environment 102. Additionally or alternatively, the threshold is automatically calculated based on one or more parameters of the process control environment 102. In some examples, at block 604, the threshold calculator 430 may further distribute the threshold to the database 410.

[0071] At block 606, power status determiner 420 determines the power status of position transmitter 208 based on the check completed at block 502. In response to position transmitter 208 being powered, processing transfers to block 608. Alternatively, in response to position transmitter 208 being powered off, processing transfers to block 612.

[0072] At block 608, parameter comparator 440 retrieves each of the calculated deviation and the threshold deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and the valve position parameter interpreted by position transmitter 208 from database 410. Furthermore, at block 608, parameter comparator 440 determines whether the calculated deviation exceeds the threshold. In some examples, parameter comparator 440 also distributes the difference between the calculated deviation and the threshold deviation to database 410. In response to the calculated deviation exceeding the threshold, processing transfers to block 610. Alternatively, in response to the calculated deviation not exceeding the threshold, processing transfers to block 612.

[0073] At block 610, in response to the deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and the valve position parameter interpreted by position transmitter 208 exceeding a corresponding threshold, parameter comparator 440 generates a flag indicating this condition. Furthermore, at block 610, parameter comparator 440 may distribute the flag to database 410.

[0074] At block 612, the power status determiner 420 determines the power status of the valve controller 206 based on the check completed at block 502. In response to the valve controller 206 being powered, processing moves to block 614. Alternatively, in response to the valve controller 206 being powered off, processing moves to block 618.

[0075] At block 614, parameter comparator 440 retrieves each of the calculated deviation and the threshold deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and the valve position parameter interpreted by valve controller 206 from database 410. Furthermore, at block 614, parameter comparator 440 determines whether the calculated deviation exceeds the threshold. In some examples, parameter comparator 440 further distributes the difference between the calculated deviation and the threshold deviation to database 410. In response to the calculated deviation exceeding the threshold, processing transfers to block 616. Alternatively, in response to the calculated deviation not exceeding the threshold, processing transfers to block 618.

[0076] At block 616, in response to the difference between the unprocessed valve position parameter and the valve position parameter interpreted by the valve controller 206 exceeding a corresponding threshold, the parameter comparator 440 generates a flag indicating this condition. Additionally, at block 616, the parameter comparator 440 may distribute the flag to the database 410.

[0077] At block 618, the power status determiner 420 determines the power status of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 based on the check completed at block 502. In response to each of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 being powered, processing transfers to block 620. Alternatively, in response to at least one of the valve controller 206 and the position transmitter 208 being powered off, processing transfers to block 624.

[0078] At block 620, parameter comparator 440 retrieves each of the valve position parameters interpreted by valve controller 206 and the valve position parameters interpreted by position transmitter 208 from database 410. Furthermore, at block 620, parameter comparator 440 determines whether the calculated deviation exceeds a threshold value. In some examples, parameter comparator 440 further distributes the difference between the calculated deviation and the threshold deviation to database 410. In response to the calculated deviation exceeding the threshold value, processing transfers to block 622. Alternatively, in response to the calculated deviation not exceeding the threshold value, processing transfers to block 624.

[0079] At block 622, in response to the difference between the valve position parameter interpreted by valve controller 206 and the valve position parameter interpreted by position transmitter 208 exceeding a corresponding threshold, parameter comparator 440 generates a flag indicating such a condition. In addition, at block 622, parameter comparator 440 may distribute the flag to database 410.

[0080] At block 624, the alert generator 450 checks the database 410 for one or more flags generated in response to one or more deviations exceeding corresponding thresholds. In response to detecting one or more generated flags, processing transfers to block 626. Alternatively, in response to determining that no flags were generated, processing transfers to block 628.

[0081] At block 626, the alarm generator 450 generates an alarm. In some examples, the example alarm generator 450 may generate an alarm, such as, for example, generating an alarm (e.g., illuminating a stack light, sounding an audible alarm, etc.), broadcasting an alarm message throughout the process control network, generating a fault log and / or report, displaying an alarm on a display, etc. In some examples, the fault log and / or report will also include a log of which of these calculated deviations exceeds a corresponding threshold. Additionally, in such examples, the completion Figure 6 The example method is processed, and the processing returns to Figure 5 Block 508 of the example method 500 shown in FIG.

[0082] At block 628, in response to not detecting the generated flag in the database 410, no alarm is required and the fluid process system 116 maintains normal operation. Figure 6The example method is processed, and the processing returns to Figure 5 Block 508 of the example method 500 shown in FIG.

[0083] Figure 7 Is able to execute instructions to achieve Figure 5-6 Methods and Figure 1 The processor platform 700 can be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a mobile device (e.g., a cell phone, a smart phone, an iPad, etc.). TM tablet computer), personal digital assistant (PDA), internet appliance, or any other type of computing device.

[0084] The processor platform 700 of the illustrated example includes a processor 712. The processor 712 of the illustrated example is hardware. For example, the processor 712 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, GPUs, DSPs, or controllers from any desired family or manufacturer. The hardware processor can be a semiconductor-based (e.g., silicon-based) device. In this example, the processor implements the example VPV device 100, which in some examples may include or otherwise implement the example acquisition engine 400, the example power state determiner 420, the example threshold calculator 430, the example parameter comparator 440, and the example alarm generator 450.

[0085] The processor 712 of the illustrated example includes a local memory 713 (e.g., a cache). The processor 712 of the illustrated example communicates with a main memory including a volatile memory 714 and a non-volatile memory 716 via a bus 718. The volatile memory 714 can be implemented by 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 memory device. The non-volatile memory 716 can be implemented by flash memory and / or any other desired type of memory device. Access to the main memories 714 and 716 is controlled by a memory controller.

[0086] The processor platform 700 of the illustrated example also includes an interface circuit 720. The interface circuit 720 may be implemented by any type of interface standard (such as an Ethernet interface, a universal serial bus (USB), interface, near field communication (NFC) interface and / or PCI express interface).

[0087] In the example shown, one or more input devices 722 are connected to the interface circuitry 720. The input devices 722 allow a user to enter data and / or commands into the processor 712. The input devices may be implemented by, for example, an audio sensor, a microphone, a camera (still or video), a keyboard, buttons, a mouse, a touch screen, a track pad, a trackball, an isochronous device, and / or a voice recognition system.

[0088] One or more output devices 724 are also connected to the interface circuit 720 of the illustrated example. The output device 724 can be implemented, for example, by a display device (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube display (CRT), an in-place switching (IPS) display, a touch screen, etc.), a tactile output device, a printer, and / or a speaker. Thus, the interface circuit 720 of the illustrated example typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, and / or a graphics driver processor.

[0089] The interface circuitry 720 of the illustrated example also includes communication devices, such as transmitters, receivers, transceivers, modems, and / or network interface cards, for facilitating data exchange with external machines (e.g., any computing device) via a network 726. Communication may occur through, for example, an Ethernet connection, a digital subscriber line (DSL) connection, a telephone line connection, a coaxial cable system, a satellite system, on-site wireless communication, a cellular telephone system, and the like.

[0090] The processor platform 700 of the illustrated example also includes one or more mass storage devices 728 for storing software and / or data. Examples of such mass storage devices 728 include floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, compact disk drives, Blu-ray disk drives, RAID systems, and digital versatile disk (DVD) drives. In this example, the one or more mass storage devices 728 implement the database 410.

[0091] Used to implement Figure 5-6 The coded instructions 732 of the method may be stored in the mass storage device 728, the volatile memory 714, the non-volatile memory 716, and / or on a removable tangible computer-readable storage medium such as a CD or DVD.

[0092] As can be appreciated from the foregoing, example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed for detecting a failed field device before its failure impairs the continued operation of a process control system. A process control system in which a field device fails during operation may experience increased downtime, resulting in lost revenue. Furthermore, a field device failure during operation may also create a hazardous operating condition if the failed field device provides erroneous or inaccurate data to the process control system. Therefore, detecting a failed field device before its failure is crucial to the successful operation of a process control system.

[0093] Although certain example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. A device for verifying valve position parameters, comprising: The field device further comprises: a sensor interface for receiving unprocessed valve position parameters from a sensor; Position transmitter; valve controller; and a position comparator for determining a deviation between the raw valve position parameter and one or more interpreted valve position parameters independently determined based on the raw valve position parameter by at least one of the position transmitter or the valve controller by: determining a deviation between the raw valve position parameter and an interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter when the valve controller is not powered; and determining a deviation between at least one of the raw valve position parameter, the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter, and the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the valve controller while both the position transmitter and the valve controller are powered; and A valve position verifier device, the valve position verifier device further comprising: a parameter comparator configured to determine whether the deviation exceeds a threshold; and An alarm generator is configured to generate an alarm when the parameter comparator determines that the deviation exceeds the threshold.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The one or more interpreted valve position parameters is a 4-20 mA current signal.

3. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve position verifier apparatus further includes a power status determiner for determining a power status of at least one of the position transmitter and the valve controller, the position transmitter and the valve controller being powered independently of each other.

4. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The position comparator is configured to determine a current valve position using a voting scheme with respect to at least two of the raw valve position parameter, the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter, and the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the valve controller.

5. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The threshold is determined based on a precision safety function requirement of the field device, the precision safety function being based on a device certificate of the field device.

6. A method for verifying a valve position parameter, comprising: receiving an unprocessed valve position parameter from a sensor; determining one or more interpreted valve position parameters based on the raw valve position parameter using at least one of a position transmitter or a valve controller; The deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and the one or more interpreted valve position parameters is determined by: determining a deviation between the raw valve position parameter and an interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter when the valve controller is not powered; as well as determining a deviation between at least one of the raw valve position parameter, the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter, and the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the valve controller while both the position transmitter and the valve controller are powered; determining whether the deviation exceeds a threshold; as well as In response to determining that the deviation exceeds the threshold, an alert is generated.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that The one or more interpreted valve position parameters is a 4-20 mA current signal.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that Also includes: A power status of at least one of the position transmitter and the valve controller is determined, the position transmitter and the valve controller being powered independently of each other.

9. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that Further including: A current valve position is determined using a voting scheme with respect to at least two of the raw valve position parameter, the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter, and the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the valve controller.

10. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that The threshold is determined based on a precision safety function requirement of the field device, the precision safety function being based on a device certificate of the field device.

11. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to at least: receiving an unprocessed valve position parameter from a sensor; independently determining one or more interpreted valve position parameters based on the raw valve position parameter using at least one of a position transmitter or a valve controller; The deviation between the unprocessed valve position parameter and the one or more interpreted valve position parameters is determined by: determining a deviation between the raw valve position parameter and an interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter when the valve controller is not powered; as well as determining a deviation between at least one of the raw valve position parameter, the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the position transmitter, and the interpreted valve position parameter determined by the valve controller while both the position transmitter and the valve controller are powered; determining whether the deviation exceeds a threshold; as well as When it is determined that the deviation exceeds the threshold, an alarm is generated.

12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 11, wherein The threshold is determined based on a precision safety function requirement of the field device, the precision safety function being based on a device certificate of the field device.

13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 11, wherein The instructions further cause the machine to determine a power status of at least one of the position transmitter and the valve controller.

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