Risk Matrix Visualization for Time-Based Malfunction Assessment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional risk assessment methods for large facilities like petrochemical and thermal power plants only provide a snapshot of malfunction probability at a given time, lacking the ability to effectively display temporal changes and assess future risks, as well as identify contributing elements within a device group.

Innovation Solution

A risk assessment device and method that allows for the display of temporal changes in risk on a matrix by switching between device group and constituent element modes, enabling the calculation and plotting of whole and individual data groups, and incorporating reference lines for improved risk assessment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a plot diagram based on current malfunction probability is created for each process device, then the current risk status can be displayed, but the temporal change and future risk assessment capability is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverisk assessment accuracyVSAvoidtemporal change information
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adds a temporal dimension to the traditional risk matrix by plotting multiple data points representing different time points (current and future) on the same diagram. This transforms a static snapshot into a dynamic temporal visualization, allowing users to observe risk evolution trends without losing the precision of individual risk assessments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary risk calculations for future time points before actual failures occur. By projecting malfunction probabilities and influence degrees to future dates based on degradation trends, the system enables proactive risk assessment and preventive maintenance planning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of manufacture

If risk assessment is performed for the whole device group, then overall risk can be assessed, but the contribution of individual elements cannot be identified

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassessment efficiencyVSAvoidindividual element contribution information
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the device group into individual process devices and further into constituent elements. Each segment is assessed separately with its own malfunction probability and influence degree, then aggregated to show both individual and collective risk contributions. This hierarchical segmentation enables identification of which specific elements contribute most to overall group risk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges individual device risk assessments with device group assessments by using consistent calculation methodologies and aggregation rules. Individual element data points are combined to form device group risk profiles, allowing comparison between individual contributions and overall group risk while maintaining assessment efficiency through standardized procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple plotting modes are provided for different units, then comprehensive risk information can be displayed, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay mode flexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal plotting framework that can display multiple types of risk data (individual devices, device groups, constituent elements) using the same visual interface and calculation methodology. The system automatically adapts the display based on the selected scope, providing versatility without requiring separate complex systems for each assessment type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3584657B1Risk assessment device, risk assessment method, and risk assessment program
Publication Date: 2021.09.22 TLV CO LTD
  • EP3584657B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3584657B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3584657B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A risk assessment device for displaying a risk matrix in which a probability of malfunction and a degree of influence of malfunction are set as two axes includes a malfunction probability acquisition unit configured to acquire, with respect to a target device group, a data group that indicates a temporal change of the probability of malfunction from a current point in time, an influence degree acquisition unit configured to acquire a degree of influence that corresponds to the target device group, and an image data creation unit configured to create image data for displaying a plot diagram that is obtained by plotting, with respect to each probability of malfunction that constitutes the acquired data group, a pair of the probability of malfunction and the acquired degree of influence on the risk matrix.