Physical Plant Model Synchronization Across Proprietary Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional system modeling techniques for physical plants, especially in the oil and gas industry, require manual iterative processes that are time-consuming and costly due to proprietary modeling software from different vendors, leading to prolonged convergence on boundary limits and reduced efficiency when simulating complex systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows for real-time synchronization of operational parameters between models of interconnected components, enabling secure exchange of proprietary details and reducing the need for manual iteration, while supporting multi-vendor systems and advanced simulation logic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual iterative processes are used to simulate multiple components with proprietary models, then each component can be simulated with high fidelity, but the cycle time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the overall plant simulation into independent component-level simulations, where each vendor's proprietary model operates autonomously on its own component. This segmentation allows parallel execution of multiple component simulations simultaneously, eliminating the sequential manual iteration process while maintaining the accuracy of each proprietary model. The segmentation is achieved through defining clear interface schemas that specify how components interact without requiring centralized coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary interface schema acts as a mediator between different proprietary component models. This schema defines standardized data exchange formats and protocols that allow components from different vendors to communicate without direct integration. The intermediary layer translates between different proprietary interfaces, enabling automatic synchronization of boundary conditions without manual intervention while preserving the integrity of each vendor's proprietary modeling approach.
2Reliability
If discrete stage simulation with multiple parties is used, then proprietary model details can be maintained securely, but convergence on boundary limits requires weeks of manual iteration
Solution Approach 1:
Each proprietary model is segmented as an independent simulation entity that operates autonomously within its own computational environment. This segmentation ensures that proprietary code and algorithms remain isolated and protected, while only standardized interface data is exchanged. The independent execution enables parallel processing of multiple components, dramatically improving productivity without compromising security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback loops where component simulation results are automatically fed back to update boundary conditions for other components. This feedback mechanism replaces manual iteration with an automated convergence process that continuously adjusts interface parameters until all components reach a consistent steady state or transient solution, significantly reducing the time required while maintaining proprietary model integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If simplified models are used for equipment outside a party's expertise, then a single party can create a unique model, but high fidelity models from multiple vendors cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The interface schema serves as a universal communication standard that enables multiple proprietary models with different fidelities and expertise domains to work together seamlessly. This universality allows each party to use their own specialized high-fidelity models for components within their expertise while automatically integrating with other vendors' models through the standardized interface, eliminating the need to simplify models for compatibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If external control systems are linked to multiple dynamic models, then system integration is achieved, but several iterations are needed to converge on a valid solution for all subsystems
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous automated iteration where the control system continuously exchanges data with all connected dynamic models, automatically adjusting boundary conditions and control parameters until convergence is achieved. This continuous action replaces discrete manual iteration steps with an uninterrupted automated process that maintains system-wide consistency throughout the simulation, significantly reducing convergence time while preserving full system integration capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems (100) for modeling operations of a physical plant (110) are presented. For instance, a system (100) includes at least a first component (111) and a second component (112). The first and second components (111), (112) have at least one physical connection (130a). First and second model operational parameters of the physical connection are received from first and second models 121, 122, respectively. The first and second models (121), (122) are updated with the second and first model operational parameters, respectively. In one example, the first and second models (121), (122) run on different computer systems. In another example, real-time operational data is received from the first and second components (111), (112), and the first and second models (121), (122) are updated with the real-time operational data received from the second and first components, respectively. In a further example, the system (100) may receive and process simulation input. In various examples, the physical connections (130a) may include a material stream, a rotating shaft or a control signal.