Integration techniques in intelligent operational management: a review

Until recently the concept of an integrated framework for coordinating operational tasks in industrial plants has not been possible due to technological limitations. Integration of functions within an intelligent system architecture would result in improved plant performance, safety and an increase in production. As a result of increased computing power and powerful memory systems, a fully computer integrated system is now possible, however, achieving an integrated framework for operational tasks is quite complex. Problems of task integration include not only the consideration of information flow and timing for a continuously changing environment, but the integration of various problem-solving methodologies. Integration frameworks proposed in the past fail to provide for a fully integrated system. A new approach to accommodate the changing dynamics of a plant's operation is now possible with the Coordinated Knowledge Management method. This paper reviews the components that need to be integrated to encompass intelligent process operation. It also reviews various integration frameworks outlining limitations and presents a proposed method of integration based on knowledge management. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.