Flare Efficiency Estimation Using Plant Models and Flame Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems inaccurately determine flaring efficiency in plants due to fluctuating factors, leading to ineffective tracking of gas release into the atmosphere, as they rely on industry standards rather than real-time data.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that combines simulation models based on plant operations data with image analysis of flare flames to calculate flaring efficiency, using machine learning models to analyze flame tilt, color, and shape for accurate estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If industry standards are used to determine flaring efficiency, then the determination process is simple, but the accuracy of flaring efficiency estimation deteriorates due to fluctuating factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines simulation model results with image analysis results to determine the final flaring efficiency estimate. The simulation model processes operations data to predict flaring efficiency, while image analysis captures visual characteristics of the flare flame. By merging these two independent estimation approaches, the system achieves higher accuracy than either method alone, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image analysis component as an intermediary between the flare flame and the efficiency determination system. The image analysis captures visual characteristics (flame tilt, color, shape) that serve as intermediate measurements, which are then processed to contribute to the final flaring efficiency estimate. This intermediary approach enables more accurate measurement without overly complicating the overall system.
2Measurement precision
If real-time operations data and image analysis are integrated, then flaring efficiency estimation accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the flaring efficiency determination system into distinct functional segments: a simulation model segment that processes operations data, an image analysis segment that processes visual data from the flare flame, and a integration segment that combines both results. This segmentation allows each component to be developed and maintained independently, managing system complexity while achieving high measurement precision through the coordinated operation of specialized subsystems.
3Measurement precision
If multiple data sources are processed, then tracking of gas release becomes more accurate, but computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hybrid approach where the simulation model provides a baseline flaring efficiency estimate based on operations data, and image analysis provides supplementary visual evidence. The system does not require all possible data sources or the most computationally intensive methods, but rather uses a combination of operational data processing and visual image analysis that achieves sufficient accuracy without excessive computational power requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer program products for determining flaring efficiency based on captured image data and operations data are provided herein. For example, a computer-implemented method for determining flaring efficiency may include receiving operations data representing operations of a plant. The computer-implemented method may include generating a simulation model of the plant based at least in part on the operations data. The computer-implemented method may include applying the simulation model of the plant to determine a first flaring efficiency estimate. The computer-implemented method may include receiving captured image data of a flare flame associated with the plant. The computer-implemented method may include analyzing the captured image data to determine a second flaring efficiency estimate. The computer-implemented method may include generating a flaring efficiency estimate based on at least one of the first flaring efficiency estimate and the second flaring efficiency estimate.