Contextual Operator Messaging for Abnormal Process Conditions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in providing rapid and secure communication between operators and field technicians in industrial process control systems, especially when they are in distant locations, which can lead to delays in addressing abnormal operational conditions and increased downtime.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for instant communication between an operator station and a remote communication interface, enabling rapid transfer of information and secure messaging, including the use of operator-defined or pre-programmed responses, and integration with a central data center for historical analysis and oversight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If cell phones or radios are used for communication between operators and field technicians, then communication can be established, but communication speed and information completeness are insufficient leading to delays in addressing abnormal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication interface as an intermediary device that connects field technicians to the process control system. This interface receives process data from the control system and transmits it to field technicians via wireless communication, while also allowing technicians to send responses back. This intermediary solution enables both fast communication and complete information transfer by bridging the gap between the control system and mobile field devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication interface is designed to perform multiple functions: it displays process data, receives technician responses, transmits information wirelessly, and integrates with the existing process control system. This multi-functional device eliminates the need for separate communication tools and ensures both speed and information completeness in a single integrated solution.
2Productivity
If traditional communication methods are used, then device complexity is low, but productivity and response time to abnormal conditions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The communication interface automatically receives process data from the control system without manual intervention and autonomously transmits relevant information to field technicians when abnormal conditions are detected. The system also automatically receives responses from technicians and relays them back to the control system, eliminating the need for operators to manually communicate through multiple channels and significantly improving response time.
3Reliability
If operators use cell phones or radios to communicate with distant team members, then communication is possible, but communication efficiency and security are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The communication interface serves as a secure intermediary that all communications must pass through. It establishes encrypted connections with the process control system and manages data transmission to field technicians, ensuring that sensitive process information is protected while maintaining efficient two-way communication between operators and technicians.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
An industrial automation system that allows for communication between an operator and a processing unit, which includes contextual information, such as data, and retrieval of historical messages, for a processing unit when abnormal operational conditions are encountered, resulting in faster responses and more complete information to address the abnormal condition.