Hierarchical Plant Operations Console Display System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The transition to distributed control systems (DCS) has resulted in the loss of the 'big picture' view for operators, with processes being fragmented into smaller pieces and a lack of trending information, leading to a need for improved graphical presentation and ergonomic design to enhance operator performance.
Innovation Solution
A plant operations console with a hierarchical display system, including top, second, third, and fourth level displays, along with a computing device and input devices, that allows operators to monitor and manipulate multiple processes simultaneously, using a navigation toolbar and color coding for effective information presentation and alarm management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If distributed control systems (DCS) are introduced to provide new capabilities for presenting information to operators, then information presentation capabilities are improved, but the 'big picture' view is lost as processes are chopped into smaller pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The display system is segmented into multiple hierarchical levels (first level, second level, third level displays) where each level presents different degrees of process detail. The first level provides overview information, while lower levels provide detailed views, allowing operators to access both big picture and detailed information as needed without losing either perspective.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a hierarchical dimension to the display system, organizing information across multiple levels rather than trying to present all information on a single plane. This dimensional organization allows operators to navigate between overview and detailed views systematically, preserving the big picture while providing access to detailed process information.
2Area of stationary object
If processes are chopped into smaller pieces to fit landscape monitors, then display compatibility is improved, but situational awareness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is segmented into hierarchical display levels that organize process information appropriately for different viewing needs. The first level display provides comprehensive overview information for situational awareness, while lower levels provide detailed views of specific process areas, allowing operators to maintain awareness of the entire plant while examining details.
Solution Approach 2:
The hierarchical display system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides overview monitoring, detailed process examination, alarm management, and historical trending all within a unified interface structure. This multi-functionality allows the system to fit various information types into the available display space without compromising situational awareness.
3Measurement precision
If digital controls are transitioned from analog systems, then control precision is improved, but trending information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of digital control precision with the informational benefits of analog trending by integrating historical data visualization and trend analysis capabilities into the hierarchical display system. Trending information is incorporated at appropriate hierarchical levels, allowing operators to see both precise current control data and historical trends simultaneously.
4Loss of information
If hierarchical display levels are implemented to provide comprehensive information, then information completeness is improved, but navigation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation toolbar is pre-configured with direct access buttons and shortcuts to commonly needed displays and functions at each hierarchical level. This preliminary organization of navigation elements reduces the cognitive load and time required to move between display levels, as operators don't need to figure out navigation paths during critical situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation toolbar acts as an intermediary interface between the operator and the hierarchical display system. It provides a standardized, consistent method for navigating between different display levels and accessing various functions, simplifying the interaction complexity while maintaining access to comprehensive information.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various embodiments for optimizing how operators of facilities view and monitor data on displays via an operations console. A display hierarchy may be employed to facilitate access by an operator to relevant information concerning plant operations. Information may be classified and rendered on a display. An operator may navigate between the displays via interacting with a navigation menu located on a display.