Related Patent Applications

[0001] This international patent application, filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 63380185, filed 10/19/2022, and has the same title, inventors, and assignee. The contents of the priority provisional patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

Field the Invention

[0002] Various embodiments relate to human machine interface (HMI) technology. Particular embodiments concern methods and software that communicate potentially abnormal behavior of an industrial system to an operator of the system. Certain embodiments concern evaluating whether a parameter is projected to go outside of a boundary within a future period of time, warning an operator when a parameter is projected to go outside the boundary, or both.

Background of the Invention

[0003] In normal operation of an HMI technology, operators are consistently looking for any abnormal or variable behavior in the process. In many complex industrial processes, this is a very time-consuming task, and is almost an impossibility without the aid from a tool to enable early detection in normal operations. Operators will typically scan the many (e.g., numerical) values on their screen(s) to get an idea of what is going on or perhaps what is about to happen in their process. In many cases, however, there are just too many variables to really make an assessment.

[0004] In the past, operators watched control boards that displayed (e.g., real-time) values of various parameters of the industrial system. Control panels have also been used with alarm lights that illuminated when alarm levels were reached. In some instances, colored lights were used to indicate alarm conditions. More recently, one or more computer screens have been used to display values of parameters to operators. Various graphics have been used to display information on computer screens, including displaying numerical values and displaying visual representations of gauges. In addition, computerized methods of communicating potentially abnormal behavior of an industrial system to an operator of the industrial system have been used. Further, such methods have included (e.g., using a computer), simultaneously displaying to the operator of the industrial system multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system. Such methods have also included, for instance, for a particular parameter, evaluating whether the parameter is projected to go outside of a boundary for the parameter within a predetermined future period of time. Even further, such methods have included recalling values of the parameter, for instance, at different times during the preceding time period, and using multiple values from the preceding time period to calculate whether the parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary within the predetermined future period of time. Still further, such methods have included, for example, using the computer, providing a warning to the operator when the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary within the predetermined future period of time.

[0005] Room for improvement exits, however, in the way such methods evaluate whether the parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary within the predetermined future period of time. Room for improvement exists, for example, in the accuracy, efficiency, or reliability of such projections, or a combination thereof, for instance, particularly where change of the parameter over time is a non-linear function. Needs and/or potential for benefit exist for computer tools that project and communicate information about the operation of industrial systems to the operator more efficiently and accurately. Room for improvement exists over the prior art in these and other areas that may be apparent to a person of skill in the art having studied this document.

Summary of Particular Embodiments of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides, among other things, computerized methods of projecting and/or communicating behavior of an industrial system to an operator. Various embodiments identify and communicate potentially abnormal behavior of the system to the operator. Other embodiments include computer systems, computer programs, and computer-readable storage media that contain computer-readable instructions that communicate similar information. Many embodiments provide, as objects or benefits, computer tools that, in whole or in part, communicate information about the operation of industrial systems to the operator more efficiently, more accurately, or both. Certain embodiments include, for example, using a computer, simultaneously displaying to the operator of the industrial system multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system. Further, various embodiments include, for instance, using the computer, for a particular parameter (e.g., of the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system), evaluating whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of a boundary for the particular parameter within a predetermined future period of time. Still further, a number of embodiments include (e.g., using the computer), providing a warning to the operator of the industrial system when the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter within the predetermined future period of time. Further still, in various embodiments, the evaluating whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter within the predetermined future period of time includes (e.g., using the computer), dividing a preceding period of time, for example, into multiple time periods. Even further, some embodiments include (e.g., using the computer), for instance, for each time period of the multiple time periods, recalling multiple values of the particular parameter, for example, at multiple different times during the time period. Even further still, various embodiments include (e.g. , using the computer), using the multiple values from each time period of the multiple time periods to calculate whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter within the predetermined future period of time. In many embodiments, computer tools are provided that project and communicate information about the operation of industrial systems to the operator more efficiently, more accurately, or both. Further, various embodiments include or provide for correcting potentially abnormal behavior of the system.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] FIG. 1 is an example of a display (e.g., to an operator of an industrial system) that is providing a warning to the operator that a particular parameter illustrated is projected to go outside of a boundary for the particular parameter within a predetermined future period of time;

[0008] FIG. 2 is an example of a display (e.g., to an operator of an industrial system) that is providing a warning to the operator that a particular parameter illustrated has already gone outside of a boundary and is predicted to continue within the predetermined future period of time;

[0009] FIG. 3 is another example of a display (e.g., to an operator of an industrial system) that is providing a warning to the operator that a particular parameter illustrated is projected to go outside of, and in this example above, a boundary within a predetermined future period of time;

[0010] FIG. 4 is an example of a display (e.g., to an operator of an industrial system) that is providing a warning to the operator that a particular parameter illustrated is projected to go outside of, in this example below, a boundary for the parameter within the predetermined future period; [0011] FIG. 5 and 6 are examples of displays (e.g., to an operator of an industrial system) of a past trend period for a particular parameter of an industrial system;

[0012] FIGS. 7 to 28 illustrate an example of an Excel spreadsheet used to illustrate a method of evaluating whether a particular parameter of an industrial system is projected to go outside of a boundary for the particular parameter within a predetermined future period of time.

[0013] The drawings provided herewith illustrate, among other things, examples of certain aspects of particular embodiments. Other embodiments may differ. Various embodiments may include aspects shown in the drawings, described in the specification (including the claims), known in the art, or a combination thereof, as examples.

Detailed Description of Examples of Embodiments

[0014] This patent application describes, among other things, examples of certain embodiments, and certain aspects thereof. Other embodiments may differ from the examples described in detail herein. Various embodiments are or concern HMI technology, software, for instance, that communicates behavior of an industrial system to an operator of the system, and methods associated therewith. Various embodiments include computerized systems and methods of, and computer software for, communicating behavior of an industrial system, for example, to an operator of the system.

[0015] Various embodiments are configurable applications that enable the operator, for example, to assign and monitor important process points, for instance, without needing to view an associated display. Some embodiments continuously evaluate points, provide visual indication when a process boundary is predicted to be violated, or both, as examples. In certain embodiments, this gives the operator the ability to perform multiple tasks, for example, while still monitoring key points for early indications of process violations. Further, various embodiments can assist an operator in becoming more effective, for instance, at mitigating potential process upsets and/or adhering to quality targets. In a number of embodiments, for example, operators are able to observe critical process variables, for instance, without having to build a unique graphic or group.

[0016] In a number of embodiments, operators use alarm settings, for example, as reminders to assist them in ‘watching’ key points. Further, various embodiments eliminate the dependence of using the alarm system for control, thus reducing variability and ultimately providing a more profitable mode of operation, for example. Further, certain embodiments do not require any additional display real estate. Still further, particular embodiments are a stand-alone application, for example, that can be placed on multiple screens, utilize “wasted” real estate, or both. Even further, in some embodiments, a particular monitor is displayed, for example, above a navigation menu application, on a secondary screen, or both. Further still, in some embodiments, the application evaluates the values and indicate whether they begin to deviate from historized data, for example. Even further still, various embodiments include a custom algorithm to monitor these values, and call attention to deviations by displaying for example, a small arrow, for instance, next to the value. In certain embodiments, for example, this arrow will point up or down, for instance, to indicate that the projected value will exceed the defined boundary limits. Moreover, in some embodiments, the defined boundaries are represented by (e.g., dashed) lines, are (e.g., fully) customizable, or both, for example. Furthermore, some embodiments include additional features, for example, system alarm indication, selectable predictable time frame, draggable boundary limits, monitoring (e.g, SP, OP, or both), or a combination thereof, as examples. Further, certain embodiments are compatible with Experion TPS/C200/C300, SCADA point types, or both. Still further, various embodiments are supported on DCS platforms. Some embodiments allow an operator to monitor, for example, up to eight process points per monitor or instance, as examples. Further, in a number of embodiments, right-click functionality is available, for example, allowing for quick navigation to associated displays or detail displays of process points. Still further, in some embodiments, left clicking on a numeric value displays a trend, for example, for the time span desired. Even further, in certain embodiments, the operator can choose from, for example, 7 pre-set time frames, for instance, ranging from 5 minutes to 8 hours.

[0017] Various improvements over the prior art concern an algorithm or method, for example, for making a prediction, for instance, of whether a parameter is projected to go outside of a boundary for that parameter, for example, within a certain amount of time. Various embodiments take a fraction (e.g. , ) of a preceding period of time and use linear regression, for example, to determine whether the process variable will go outside the boundary within the certain amount of time. But this result is not necessarily very accurate if the process variable is substantially non-linear within the (e.g, ) of the preceding period of time. In certain embodiments, an improvement is to divide the fraction (e.g., ! ) of the preceding period of time into (e.g., four, for instance, equal) parts & use linear regression, for example, of each of these parts. Further, some embodiments then combine or stack these linear regressions. Specific examples are described herein. Certain embodiments calculate a slope of several different windows or parts of the preceding period of time and use the slopes to make predictions using a particular algorithm or method, examples of which are described in more detail herein. In particular embodiments, for example, the method starts with a preceding time period, takes the latest fraction (e.g. , !4) of that time period, and divides that fraction up into (e.g., four, for instance, equal) parts. Still further, various embodiments calculate the slope of each part, calculate the change in slope between the parts, & then uses the (e.g., three) changes in slope, the most recent slope, or both, to predict what the approximate slope of the parameter will be going forward, for example, with respect to time. Some embodiments average the slope changes. Further, some embodiments divide by a slope change factor that may be a constant that is greater than one, for example, to moderate the predicted slope.

[0018] Various specific embodiments are or include a computerized method, for example, of communicating potentially abnormal behavior of an industrial system, for instance, to an operator of the industrial system. In a number of embodiments, for example, the method includes various acts, for example, accomplished or performed using a computer. For instance, various embodiments include (e.g., using a computer), simultaneously displaying, for example, to the operator of the industrial system, multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system. In FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, the 7.73 represents a current value of a measured parameter of an industrial system. Further, various embodiments include (e.g., using the computer), for instance, for a particular parameter of the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system, evaluating whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of a boundary for the particular parameter, for example, within a predetermined future period of time. The time period labeled “Future” in FIG. 1 represents an example of a predetermined future period of time, for instance. Further still, FIGS. 7-28, for example, illustrate a spreadsheet that performs such an evaluation. Still further, various embodiments include (e.g., using the computer), providing a warning, for instance, to the operator of the industrial system, for example, when the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter, for instance, within the predetermined future period of time. Even further, in a number of embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary (e.g., for the particular parameter) within the predetermined future period of time, for example, includes (e.g., using the computer): dividing a preceding period of time into multiple time periods (e.g., for each time period of the multiple time periods), recalling multiple values of the particular parameter, for instance, at multiple different times during the time period, and using the multiple values (e.g. , from each time period of the multiple time periods) to calculate whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary (e.g., for the particular parameter), for instance, within the predetermined future period of time. FIGS. 7-28 illustrate an example. FIG. 8 shows the preceding period of time divided into four time periods. Even further still, the time period labeled “Past” in FIG. 1 is an example of a preceding period of time.

[0019] In some embodiments, for example, the using of the multiple values from each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) to calculate whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter within the predetermined future period of time includes (e.g., using the computer): using the multiple values from each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) to calculate a time-period-specific intermediate value for the time period, combining each time-period-specific intermediate value for each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) to obtain a combined intermediate value, and using the combined intermediate value to determine whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time). Further, in certain embodiments, each time-period-specific intermediate value for each time period (e.g, of the multiple time periods) is a slope. Still further, in particular embodiments, each time-period-specific intermediate value for each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) includes a slope of the particular parameter, for example, within the time period. Even further, in some embodiments, the combined intermediate value is a slope, for example, a projected slope, for instance, of the particular parameter with respect to time. In FIGS. 1 to 4, for example, the white line in each figures has a particular slope that represents the combined intermediate value in particular embodiments. Still further, in certain embodiments, the combining of each time-period-specific intermediate value includes (e.g., using the computer) subtracting a first time-period-specific intermediate value for a first time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) from a second timeperiod-specific intermediate value for a second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods). Even further still, in various embodiments, the second time period is more recent than the first time period, the second time period and the first time period are consecutive, or both. In FIG. 8, for example, the four time periods are consecutive and the one on the right is most recent. [0020] Moreover, in some embodiments, the combining of each time-period-specific intermediate value includes (e.g., using the computer) calculating a difference between a first time-period- specific intermediate value for a first time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) and a second time-period-specific intermediate value for a second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), adding the difference to the second time-period-specific intermediate value, or both. Further, in particular embodiments, the combining of each time-period-specific intermediate value includes (e.g., using the computer) multiplying by a slope change factor, for example, that has an absolute value that is less than one, or dividing by a slope change factor, for instance, that has an absolute value that is greater than one. FIG. 12 shows a slope change factor of 4, which is an example of a slope change factor. Further still, in some embodiments, the combining of each timeperiod-specific intermediate value includes (e.g., using the computer) weighting differently (e.g., more heavily, with one or more coefficients or slope change factors, or both, for example) a more- recent time-period-specific intermediate value for a more-recent time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods). Even further, in certain embodiments, each time period (e.g, of the multiple time periods) includes a start time for the time period, an end time for the time period, or both. Still further, in some embodiments, the time-period-specific intermediate value for the time period is calculated (e.g., using the computer) using values of the particular parameter at the start time for the time period, at the end time for the time period, or both. In some embodiments, each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) includes a start time for the time period and an end time for the time period, and the time-period-specific intermediate value for the time period is calculated (e.g., using the computer) using values of the particular parameter near the start time and near the end time, wherein “near”, in this context, means within 25 percent of the time period.

[0021] In various embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes calculating a slope, for example, for each time period (e.g. , of the multiple time periods), for instance, a projected slope of the particular parameter, for example, with respect to time. Further, in a number of embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes (e.g., using the computer) subtracting a first slope for a first time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) from a second slope for a second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods). Still further, in various embodiments, the second time period is more recent than the first time period, the second time period and the first time period are consecutive, or both. In some embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes (e.g., using the computer) calculating a difference between a first slope for a first time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) and a second slope for a second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods). In particular embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the parameter (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time) includes (e.g. , using the computer) adding the difference to the second slope or subtracting the difference from the second slope.

[0022] Further, in a number of embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes (e.g., using the computer) calculating a first slope difference between a first slope for a first time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) and a second slope for a second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), calculating a second slope difference between the second slope for the second time period (e.g. , of the multiple time periods) and a third slope for a third time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), or both. Still further, in various embodiments, the second time period is more recent than the first time period, the third time period is more recent than the second time period, or both. Further still, in a number of embodiments, the first time period, the second time period, the third time period, or a combination thereof, are consecutive. Even further, in various embodiments, the first slope difference, the second slope difference, or both, are used to calculate a projected slope, for example, of the particular parameter with respect to time. In particular embodiments, the method includes averaging, for example, the first slope difference and the second slope difference, for instance, to obtain an average slope difference. Moreover, certain embodiments include subtracting the average slope difference from the third slope, for example, to obtain a projected slope. Furthermore, particular embodiments include (e.g., using the computer) multiplying or dividing the average slope difference by a slope change factor, for example, before subtracting the average slope difference from the third slope to obtain the projected slope. In various embodiments, the first time period, the second time period, the third time period, or a combination thereof, Eire equal in length, for instance, within 50, 25, 10, 5, or 1 percent, as examples. [0023] Still further, in some embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time) includes calculating a first slope change or slope difference between a first slope for a first time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) and a second slope for a second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), calculating a second slope difference between the second slope for the second time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) and a third slope for a third time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), and calculating a third slope difference between the third slope for the third time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) and a fourth slope for a fourth time period (e.g, of the multiple time periods). Further, in particular embodiments, the first slope difference, the second slope difference, the third slope difference, or a combination thereof, are used to calculate a projected slope of the particular parameter with respect to time. Further still, in certain embodiments, the method includes averaging the first slope difference, the second slope difference, the third slope difference, or a combination thereof. FIG. 12 shows an average slope change, for example. Even further, in particular embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time) includes (e.g. , using the computer) multiplying or dividing by a slope change factor, for example, multiplying (e.g., an average slope change) by a slope change factor having an absolute value that is less than one or dividing by a slope change factor having an absolute value that is greater than one. Even further still, in certain embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes subtracting an average slope change (e.g. , multiplied or divided by a slope change factor) from a slope of a most-recent time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), for instance, to calculate a projected slope of the particular parameter with respect to time.

[0024] Moreover, some embodiments include weighting differently, for example, more heavily, a slope of a more-recent time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), weighting differently, for instance, more heavily, a slope change between more-recent time periods (e.g., of the multiple time periods), or both. For instance, in particular embodiments, weighting may be accomplished using different coefficients, for example, for different slopes, for instance, depending on how recently the slopes occurred. Further, in a number of embodiments, each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) includes a start time for the time period and an end time for the time period. Further still, in various embodiments, a slope for the time period is calculated using values of the particular parameter at the start time for the time period and at the end time for the time period. On the other hand, in some embodiments, the slope for the time period is calculated using values of the particular parameter near the start time for the time period and near the end time for the time period, where “near”, in this context, means within 25 percent of the time period, for example. Even further, various embodiments weight slopes differently in other ways. For example, in certain embodiments, slopes from the first time period or time periods (e.g., two time periods) rather than the last time period or time periods (e.g., two time periods) are weighted more heavily. Even further still, some embodiments use statistical behavior, for instance, as a weighting method. For example, in particular embodiments, a (e.g., normal) bell curve is assumed. Moreover, in certain embodiments, one or more middle slopes, for instance, two middle slopes, are weighted more heavily, for example, than the first and the last of the slopes. Various embodiments are contemplated, for example, that weight different slopes from different time periods differently, in some embodiments, for instance, independently.

[0025] In a number of embodiments, the providing of the warning to the operator includes (e.g., using the computer) providing a visual display, for example, to the operator. Further, in various embodiments, the visual display is displayed in a first manner when the particular parameter is already outside of the boundary for the particular parameter, and the visual display is displayed in a second manner when the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time). Still further, in some embodiments, the visual display to the operator includes an arrow, for example, displayed next to (e.g., horizontally next to) a (e.g., numerical) display of the particular parameter. Even further, in some embodiments, the arrow, for example, is displayed oriented vertically. Further still, in particular embodiments, the arrow is displayed in a first manner when the particular parameter is already outside of the boundary for the particular parameter, and the arrow is displayed in a second manner when the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time). Even further still, in certain embodiments, the arrow, for example, is displayed solid when the particular parameter is already outside of the boundary for the particular parameter, the arrow, for example, is displayed hollow when the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time), or both. Moreover, in various embodiments, when the particular parameter is projected to go above the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time), the providing of the warning to the operator includes providing a directional indication (e.g., to the operator) that indicates that the particular parameter is projected to go above the boundary for the particular parameter. For instance, in particular embodiments, the directional indication includes an arrow pointing up. On the other hand, in some embodiments, when the particular parameter is projected to go below the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time), the providing of the warning (e.g., to the operator) includes providing a directional indication (e.g. , to the operator) that indicates that the particular parameter is projected to go below the boundary for the particular parameter. For example, in certain embodiments, the directional indication includes an arrow pointing down. FIGS. 1-4 show examples with arrows.

[0026] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the providing of the warning to the operator includes (e.g., using the computer), providing an audible indication, for example, to the operator. Moreover, in particular embodiments, the audible indication to the operator differs, for example, depending on whether the particular parameter is projected to go above or below the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time). For example, in certain embodiments, the audible indication to the operator is a first audible indication when the particular parameter is projected to go above the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time), and the audible indication to the operator is a second audible indication when the particular parameter is projected to go below the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time).

[0027] In particular embodiments, the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes calculating a coefficient of determination (e.g., R ^A 2 or R squared) for the particular parameter, for instance, for each time period of the multiple time periods or for one or multiple time periods of the multiple time periods. This may be done, for example, using one or more intermediate values of the particular parameter within the time period. These intermediate values, for example, may be between the start time for the time period and the end time for the time period. For instance, in particular embodiments, the intermediate values may be midway between or not near either of the start time for the time period and the end time for the time period. Further, some embodiments include using the coefficient of determination, for example, to select which process, algorithm, or formula, to use, or how many time periods to divide the preceding period of time into, for instance, for the evaluating of whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time). Still further, in some embodiments, the dividing of the preceding period of time into the multiple time periods includes dividing the preceding period of time into substantially equal time periods. Further still, in this context, unless indicated otherwise, “substantially”, means to within 10 percent of an average duration of the time periods. Even further, in particular embodiments, the dividing of the preceding period of time into the multiple time periods includes dividing the preceding period of time into equal time periods (i. e. , equal in duration). Even further still, in certain embodiments, the dividing of the preceding period of time into the multiple time periods includes dividing the preceding period of time into: at least three time periods, at least four time periods, no more than ten time periods, no more than seven time periods, no more than five time periods, or no more than four time periods, as examples. Moreover, in some embodiments, the dividing of the preceding period of time into the multiple time periods includes (e.g. , using the computer) dividing the preceding period of time into four time periods (i.e., specifically). FIG. 8 shows an example. Other embodiments, however, may use a different number of time periods.

[0028] Additionally, in various embodiments, the dividing of the preceding period of time into the multiple time periods includes dividing the preceding period of time into consecutive time periods. FIG. 8 shows an example. Further, in a number of embodiments, the multiple time periods end, for example, within a duration of one of the multiple time periods from a present time (i.e., the time when the displaying to the operator is taking place). “Present” is labeled in FIG. 1, for example. Still further, in certain embodiments, the multiple time periods end substantially at a present time. Further still, in this context, “substantially” means to within 10 percent of an average duration of the time periods, unless indicated otherwise. Even further, in certain embodiments, the multiple time periods end at the present time. Even further still, in some embodiments, the multiple values of the particular parameter at the multiple different times during the time period consist of two values of the particular parameter at two different times during the time period, for example, used to calculate whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary. In other embodiments, however, more than two values of the particular parameter at different times during the time period may be used, for example, where the coefficient of determination is below a threshold. In various embodiments, the act of using the multiple values from each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) to calculate whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time) includes using linear regression, for instance, to determine whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter within the predetermined future period of time. Further, certain embodiments include using a lag function, for instance, a first order lag function, as another example, to determine whether the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time). Other embodiments use lasso regression, ridge regression, least squares regression, or a combination thereof. Still other embodiments use a polynomial, for example, a second order polynomial, or a second order function. Still further, various embodiments assign a penalty to the coefficients, for example, like the slope change factor.

[0029] In a number of embodiments, the method includes inputting into the computer, for example, from the operator, the boundary for the particular parameter. Further, in various embodiments, the boundary for the particular parameter includes an upper boundary for the particular parameter and a lower boundary for the particular parameter. In FIGS. 1-4 the boundaries are represented by horizontal dashed lines and are labeled “Operator Boundary” in FIG. 2, for example. Still further, in some embodiments, the method involves or includes a past trend period for the particular parameter. Further still, certain embodiments include inputting into the computer (e.g., from the operator) a duration of the past trend period for the particular parameter. FIGS. 5 and 6, for example, show past trend periods. FIGS. 1-4 also show past trend periods, although not labeled as such. Even further, in various embodiments, the duration of the past trend period for the particular parameter is selectable (e.g., by the operator), for example, between 20 minutes and 2 hours, between 10 minutes and 4, or between 5 minutes and 8 hours. Even further still, in a number of embodiments, the past trend period for the particular parameter ends at a substantially present time. In this context, “substantially” means to within 10 percent of the past trend period, unless indicated otherwise. Moreover, in some embodiments, the multiple time periods consist of a fraction of the past trend period for the particular parameter. For example, in various embodiments, the fraction is: less than 100 percent, less than 50 percent, no more than 25 percent, more than 0 percent, more than 5 percent, more than 10 percent, more than 15 percent, more than 20 percent, no less than 25 percent, or a combination thereof. In particular embodiments, for instance, the fraction is 25 percent. [0030] In addition, in some embodiments, the method includes displaying (e.g., for the operator) a graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period. For instance, in particular embodiments, the graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period is displayed (e.g., using the computer) when selected (e.g., by the operator). For example, in certain embodiments, the graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period is selected (e.g., by the operator) by moving a cursor, for instance, to a visual display (e.g., to the operator) of the warning (e.g., to the operator) that the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g, within the predetermined future period of time). Further, in various embodiments, the graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period is selected (e.g., by the operator) by clicking on a visual display (e.g., to the operator) of the warning (e.g., to the operator) that the particular parameter is projected to go outside of the boundary for the particular parameter (e.g., within the predetermined future period of time). For instance, in particular embodiments, the graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period is selected (e.g., by the operator) by clicking on an arrow. Still further, in a number of embodiments, the graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period includes an illustration of the boundary, for example, the graph includes at least one horizontal line depicting the boundary. Even further, in various embodiments, the graph of the particular parameter over the past trend period includes illustrations of an upper boundary for the particular parameter and a lower boundary for the particular parameter. Even further still, in a number of embodiments, the particular parameter (e.g. , for which the warning is provided when appropriate) is selectable (e.g., by the operator) from the multiple different measured parameters.

[0031] Even further, in some embodiments, for each parameter of a plurality of parameters (e.g., of the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system), the method includes evaluating whether the parameter (e.g. , of the plurality of parameters) is projected to go outside of the boundary for the parameter of the plurality of parameters (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time). Further, various such embodiments include providing a warning (e.g., to the operator of the industrial system) when the parameter (e.g., of the plurality of parameters) is projected to go outside of the boundary for the parameter of the plurality of parameters (e.g. , within the predetermined future period of time). Still further, in various embodiments, the evaluating of whether the parameter (e.g., of the plurality of parameters) is projected to go outside of the boundary for the parameter (e.g., of the plurality of parameters), for instance, within the predetermined future period of time, includes dividing a preceding period of time into multiple time periods, for each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods), recalling multiple values of the parameter (e.g., of the plurality of parameters) at multiple different times during the time period, and using the multiple values from each time period (e.g., of the multiple time periods) to calculate whether the parameter (e.g., of the plurality of parameters) is projected to go outside of the boundary for the parameter (e.g., of the plurality of parameters), for instance, within the predetermined future period of time. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the plurality of parameters are selectable (e.g. , by the operator), for instance, from the multiple different measured parameters.

[0032] Various embodiments include using the warning: to mitigate a potential process upset, to adhere to a quality target, to adhere to an environmental target, or a combination thereof (e.g., for the industrial system), as examples. Further, a number of embodiments include (e.g., using the computer, for instance, simultaneously) measuring the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system, transmitting the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system (e.g., to the computer), for instance, for displaying to the operator, reading the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system, or a combination thereof, as examples. Still further, various embodiments include: accessing (e.g., using the computer) the multiple different measured parameters of the industrial system, correcting the potentially abnormal behavior of the industrial system, or both.

[0033] As mentioned, FIGS. 7 to 28 illustrate an example of an Excel spreadsheet used to illustrate an example of a method of evaluating whether a particular parameter of an industrial system is projected to go outside of a boundary for the particular parameter within a predetermined future period of time. In this example, the particular parameter is assumed to change over time as a sinusoidal function. On sheet 2, column D is the output of the sinusoidal function with column A as an input, as well as two constants from sheet 1 in cells C3 and C4. Cell C3 is the wave amplitude and C4 is proportional to the period (not frequency). On sheet 1, column B is the input of column C. Column C is a replication from Sheet 2 column D. On sheet 1, column E has several different calculations of the slopes of column C. It calculates the slope over 15 rows and gradually goes down to 3 rows. Column E uses least squared linear regression to calculate the slope. Columns F to I, labeled Actual 1 , Actual 2, etc. , calculate output using slopes calculated in column E. Actual 1 uses the 1st slope, Actual 2 uses the second slope, and so on. This example uses the changes in slope to predict future change in slope, and uses the predicted change in slope to then predict future values (e.g., of the parameter). This example is similar to a quadratic fit but the quadratic term is dampened by the slope change factor. In this example, Column D is column B to the 0.9th power. Cells JI 2 to JI 5 are the slopes. Cell JI 6 is the average slope over the first four slopes calculated for the first four windows or the average slope over the windows. Cells L13 to LI 5 are the changes in the slopes. Cell LI 6 is the slope of LI 3 to LI 5 or the rate of change of slope. Slope is the first derivative of the parameter value with respect to time and rate of change of slope is the second derivative of the parameter value with respect to time. Fl 1 is the prediction of the second value based on the first calculated slope and the first value. G15 is the prediction of the second value in the second window based on the second calculated slope and the first value in the second window. This continues to 123. J5 to J8 are these values copied. K8 is the slope of these values or the average change. Cells L6 to L8 are the differences in cells J5 to J8, and cell L9 is the slope of those differences, so L9 is the rate of change of cells J5 to J8. Cell M17 is the average slope change. Cell LI 6 is the slope of the slope changes or the third derivative of the parameter value with respect to time. Cell LI 8 is the average change over the periods, which is approximately equal to cell K8. LI 8 is equal to the average of cells L7 to L9. Cell J23 equals cell L8. These cells represent the change in window starts. Cell K28 is a prediction of change to the next window start. Cell L28 is a prediction of the next slope using the rate of change of slope, but it is dampened by the slope change factor. Cells J29 and on down use the estimated slope to predict future values of the parameter. In cell M32, the next slope is estimated using the same method that was used in cell L28, but the slope it estimates from is the estimate from cell L28. Cells K33 and down use the estimated slope to predict future values, much like in J29 and down. Future predictions 3 and 4 use a similar process. This example is an approximation of a simple quadratic fit, but with a dampening of the quadratic term. The slope change factor protects somewhat against overfitting. This example assumes that the linear term will be a good fit, but is less confident that the quadratic term will continue, so the quadratic term is reduced by the slope change factor. This concerns bias variance tradeoff or deciding whether or not to make a fit constant, linear, quadratic, cubic, or even-more complicated.

[0034] Moreover, certain embodiments include an act of (e.g., using the computer) prompting (e.g. , the operator) to input certain information, for example, described herein. Further, in a number of embodiments, various different parameters of the industrial system may be measured, for example, using various sensors, transducers, or the like, for example, that are known in the art. Further, transmitting the (e.g., multiple) different parameters of the industrial system (e.g., to the computer) for displaying to the operator of the system may be accomplished with hard wiring, through wireless communication, or both. In some embodiments, different sensors, transducers, etc., may include dedicated wiring, while in other embodiments, multiplexing may be used. In some embodiments, a computer network may be used. Still further, in some embodiments, (e.g., measured) parameter values are read by the computer, for instance, for displaying (e.g., to the operator of the system) the multiple different parameters of the industrial system. In some embodiments, the method includes accessing (e.g., with the computer) the multiple different parameters of the industrial system or (e.g., measured) parameter values, as examples. In some embodiments, for instance, (e.g., measured) parameter values are accessed by the computer, for instance, for displaying (e.g., to the operator of the system). Parameters or parameter values may be accessed or read, for example, from various sensors or equipment that measures or transits the parameters or parameter values (e.g. , pressure flow rate, temperature, etc. ) of the industrial system.

[0035] Moreover, a number of embodiments include an act of correcting the (e.g., industrial) system, for example, correcting abnormal or potentially-abnormal behavior of the industrial system. In some embodiments, for example, an act of correcting potentially-abnormal behavior of the industrial system includes adjusting at least one flow rate in the industrial system, adjusting at least one level (e.g. , a liquid level in a tank) in the industrial system, adjusting at least one pressure in the industrial system, adjusting a control scheme in the industrial system, or a combination thereof, as examples. Further, in various embodiments, the multiple different parameters include at least ten, at least twenty, at least thirty, at least forty, or at least fifty different parameters, as examples. In some embodiments, an act of correcting the potentially-abnormal behavior of the industrial system may be done using the computer, but in other embodiments, certain corrective action may be performed by the operator, for example, without using the computer specifically to implement the corrective action. In different embodiments, or for different corrective actions, corrective actions can be computer implemented or otherwise.

[0036] Other embodiments include an apparatus and/or various methods of obtaining or providing an apparatus or information, for instance, that include a novel combination of the features described herein. Even further embodiments include at least one means for accomplishing at least one functional aspect described herein. The subject matter described herein includes various means for accomplishing the various functions or acts described herein or that are apparent from the structure and acts described. Each function described herein is also contemplated as a means for accomplishing that function, or where appropriate, as a step for accomplishing that function. Moreover, various embodiments include certain (e.g., combinations of) aspects described herein. All novel combinations are potential embodiments. Some embodiments may include a subset of elements described herein and various embodiments include additional elements as well. Further, various embodiments of the subject matter described herein include various combinations of the acts, structure, components, and features described herein, shown in the drawings, described in any documents that are incorporated by reference herein, or that are known in the art. Moreover, certain procedures can include acts such as manufacturing, obtaining, or providing components that perform functions described herein or in the documents that are incorporated by reference. Further, as used herein, the word “or”, except where indicated otherwise, does not imply that the alternatives listed are mutually exclusive. Even further, where alternatives are listed herein, it should be understood that in some embodiments, fewer alternatives may be available, or in particular embodiments, just one alternative may be available, as examples.