Graphical Procedure Execution Interface for Human Error Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for documenting and managing procedures in the process industry are inadequate in reducing human error, as they lack effective connectivity with control systems and are not operator-centric, leading to increased severity of incidents despite advancements in automation and technology.
Innovation Solution
A networked computer system and method that uses a graphical user interface to document procedures, converting visual operation information into a computer function language for automated execution, with real-time feedback and alarm response routines, enabling interactive display and secure documentation, and allowing operator updates and confirmation of actions through mobile devices and augmented reality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If higher levels of automation are implemented, then human error is reduced, but component diversity, cost of instrumentation, wiring and electronic infrastructure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a unified procedural automation platform that can execute multiple types of procedures (manual, computer-assisted, and automatic) through a single system architecture. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate systems for different automation levels, reducing component diversity while maintaining high reliability across all procedure types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer - a procedural automation system with graphical interface and conversion capabilities - that sits between human operators and control systems. This mediator translates various procedure types into standardized execution formats, reducing the complexity of direct integration between diverse components and control systems while ensuring reliable automated execution.
2Reliability
If procedural automation is implemented, then execution predictability improves, but cost of adding instrumentation and electronic infrastructure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating virtual representations of procedures through graphical interfaces and converting them into executable formats. Instead of requiring physical instrumentation for every procedure step, the system uses digital copies and simulations to achieve predictable execution, significantly reducing the cost of physical infrastructure while maintaining execution reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical and physical instrumentation systems with software-based procedural automation. By substituting physical infrastructure with digital procedure execution and conversion systems, the patent achieves predictable task execution while eliminating the need for extensive instrumentation, wiring, and electronic infrastructure.
3Device complexity
If traditional procedure documentation is used, then system complexity is low, but connectivity between control systems and operated systems is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the procedural automation system continuously monitors and tracks procedure execution status, converting graphical procedure definitions into executable instructions and providing real-time feedback on execution progress. This feedback loop ensures accurate connectivity between control systems and operated systems without requiring complex custom integration for each procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and Methods for Documenting and Managing Execution of Procedures in a Graphical Interface Environment, for example, in a Graphical User Interface (GUI), to control multiple, diverse systems. The presently disclosed subject matter relates generally to documenting procedures, and more particularly to graphically documenting and structuring the automated performance of and execution of the procedures to reduce human factor risks and accidents with improved connectivity between the systems running the procedures and the systems being controlled or monitored by the procedures.