Fluid Network Pressure Control via Iterative Valve Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling and adjusting fluid networks, such as gas and heat networks, are too complex and time-consuming due to the increasing number of biomethane injecting stations and the size of the networks, leading to suboptimal adjustments and difficulty in meeting operating and consumption constraints.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a calculation device that estimates control and adjustment parameters by determining initial configurations, updating pressure loss coefficients, and iteratively refining these estimates through non-linear programming and mixed integer non-linear programming to optimize network settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If systematic approaches with expert rules and simulation tools are used to control fluid networks, then operating constraints are satisfied, but the complexity and time required for adjustment increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the control problem from determining absolute pressure values to optimizing pressure differences between nodes. This parameter transformation simplifies the mathematical model by eliminating the need to account for absolute pressure constraints, reducing the complexity of the control algorithm while maintaining reliability in satisfying operating constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and separates the pressure loss coefficient optimization from the overall network control problem. By focusing specifically on optimizing pressure loss coefficients as independent variables, the method decouples the complex multi-variable control problem into a more manageable form that can be solved efficiently while still satisfying all operating constraints
2Reliability
If simulation tools with multiple successive calculation iterations are used, then network constraints are respected, but the adjustment process becomes too long and complex for large networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network control problem into two distinct optimization levels: (1) optimizing pressure loss coefficients for individual pipelines, and (2) determining optimal pressure differences at nodes. This segmentation allows each sub-problem to be solved independently and iteratively, significantly reducing the computational time required compared to solving the entire system simultaneously through multiple successive iterations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary optimization of pressure loss coefficients before proceeding to the second level of pressure difference optimization. This preliminary action establishes a foundation that simplifies subsequent calculations and reduces the number of iterations needed to achieve convergence, thereby reducing overall adjustment time while maintaining constraint compliance
3Ease of operation
If maximum pressures are imposed for most stations following expert rules, then network operation is simplified, but optimal adjustment for large networks cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static expert rules with a dynamic optimization approach that automatically adapts pressure settings to current network conditions. The system continuously calculates optimal pressure differences based on actual flow demands and network state, transforming the control system from a rigid rule-based approach to a flexible, adaptive optimization process that improves network efficiency while remaining operationally simple
4Adaptability or versatility
If the number of biomethane injecting stations increases, then renewable production share increases, but the complexity of control approaches increases making them impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a universal control methodology that can handle any number of injection stations and network configurations through a standardized two-level optimization framework. This universal approach uses the same mathematical structure and algorithm regardless of network size or complexity, allowing the system to accommodate increasing numbers of biomethane stations without proportionally increasing control complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present description relates to a method for estimating, by a calculation device, control parameters of a fluid network, from at least one source station to at least one destination station and via at least one pipe, the network comprising at least one valve and/or at least one pressure reducing station, the method comprising: determining a configuration of the at least one valve and/or of the at least one pressure reducing station and/or of the at least one source station; initializing coefficients associated with the at least one pipe; a first estimation of the parameters, on the basis of the configuration, updating the coefficients on the basis of the first estimation; searching for a new configuration on the basis of the updated coefficients; a second estimation; and providing the second estimation to a control station.