Web-Based Remote Control for Fluid-Handling Equipment Offline Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for fluid-handling devices, such as SCADA systems, are inefficient due to network connectivity issues and require special-purpose software, leading to increased costs and delays in monitoring and controlling geographically distributed equipment like oil wells and petroleum facilities.
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 network interface, memory, and processors to translate and send commands to local controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If SCADA systems are used for remote monitoring and control of fluid-handling devices, then remote control capability is achieved, but the system fails when network connection is lost and requires special-purpose software installation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by queuing commands locally when the network is unavailable. The local controller stores commands in a queue during network outages and executes them once connectivity is restored, ensuring continuous operation without network dependency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a local controller as an intermediary between the remote user device and the fluid-handling device. This local controller receives and queues commands locally, acting as a mediator that enables operation during network failures by storing commands until network connectivity is available.
2Ease of operation
If SCADA systems with special-purpose software are deployed, then remote control is enabled, but installation complexity and user burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by enabling remote control through standard web browsers without requiring special-purpose software installation. Any device with a web browser can access and control fluid-handling devices, eliminating the need for device-specific configurations or proprietary applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/software installation process with a web-based interface. Instead of requiring software installation and configuration on user devices, the system uses standard web browsing technology to access the control interface, substituting complex software deployment with simple web access.
3Ease of operation
If technicians manually travel to remote fluid-handling devices for adjustments, then direct control is possible, but time and cost increase due to frequent trips
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service remote control where operators can directly control fluid-handling devices from remote locations through web browsers. This eliminates the need for technicians to physically travel to sites for routine adjustments, allowing operators to perform control functions remotely and reduce travel time and costs.
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.