Remote Fluid-Handling Control With Local Autonomy During Outages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote monitoring and control systems for fluid-handling devices, such as SCADA systems, are prone to failures during network outages and require special-purpose software installations, 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 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 establishing local control logic and buffering mechanisms at the remote site before network failures occur. The local controller is pre-configured to operate autonomously, and data is buffered locally to ensure continuous operation during network outages, eliminating the need for special software installations on remote devices.
2Ease of operation
If technicians manually travel to remote fluid-handling devices for adjustments and inspections, then direct control is achieved, but time and costs increase due to frequent travel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical travel of technicians with automated electronic control and monitoring systems. Remote users can control fluid-handling devices and receive alerts through standard web browsers, eliminating the need for physical travel to remote sites while maintaining direct control capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If special-purpose software is installed on computing devices for remote control, then control functionality is achieved, but user burden increases due to configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by implementing remote control functionality through standard web browsers that are already installed on most computing devices. This multi-functional approach allows the system to work across different operating systems and devices without requiring specialized software installations, thereby reducing user burden while maintaining control functionality.
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.