Total process surveillance: a surgeon's eye view on a process plant

A total process surveillance (TOPS) system is under development which can provide, in real time, additional process information from a limited number of raw measurement signals. This is achieved by using a robust model-based observer to generate estimates of the process' internal states. The state estimates contribute towards prompt and successful incipient (slowly developing) fault detection. A high level plant status expert system monitor assimilates diagnostic decisions and diverse data signals to give the operator an overall view of the current behaviour of his plant. The TOPS system is being validated on the core of an operating nuclear reactor. However the concept and hierarchical modular design has potential for application in a wide range of process systems where only limited process measurements are available. Benefits to plant operators include reduced operating costs through increased efficiency and predictive maintenance, and improvement of safety margins.<
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