Remote Fluid-Handling Control With Local Command Caching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote monitoring and control systems for fluid-handling devices are prone to failures during network outages and require special-purpose software, making them inefficient and costly for geographically distributed facilities like oil wells and petroleum pumping stations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a command-center server and site master-controllers that allow remote control of fluid-handling devices via a web interface, enabling commands to be executed even without continuous network access and without the need for special software on user devices, using a protocol translation mechanism to communicate with various fluid-handling devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If SCADA systems are used for remote monitoring of fluid-handling devices, then remote control capability is achieved, but the system fails when network connection is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by caching control commands and operational parameters locally at the site controller before network connectivity is lost. This allows the controller to execute pre-fetched commands and maintain operational continuity during network outages, resolving the contradiction between remote control capability and reliability during network failures.
2Ease of operation
If special-purpose software is installed on computing devices for remote control, then control functionality is enabled, but user adoption is deterred due to configuration burden
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring users to install and configure special-purpose software on their computing devices, the system uses a web-based interface that can be accessed through standard web browsers. This copying approach replicates the control functionality through a universally accessible platform, eliminating the need for device-specific software installation and configuration while maintaining full remote control capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If technicians manually travel to remote sites for device adjustments, then direct device control is achieved, but time and cost increase due to frequent travel
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical system of physical travel with electronic communication and automated control. Technicians can issue control commands and monitor device status remotely through the web-based interface, substituting the need for physical presence at remote sites with digital interaction. This eliminates travel time and costs while maintaining the ability to directly control and monitor fluid-handling devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a process, including: receiving, via the network interface, from a remote user device, a command to change a state of the fluid-handling device to a target state; translating the received command into a translated command operative to cause a local controller of the fluid-handling device to drive the fluid-handling equipment to the target state, the local controller being responsive to the command and feedback from the fluid-handling device indicative of whether the fluid-handling device is in the target state; and sending the translated command to the local controller.