Abstract: A method and system for real-time optimization of a process scheduled using a single-period or multi-period, steady-state planning model and optimization program, and is controlled by means of linear or non-linear multivariable constraint controls. A steady-state model based on first principles of chemistry and physics of a plant is applied with a non-linear optimizer to calculate the optimum operating point of said oil refinery at any desired frequency such that the refinery can be considered to be operating in steady-state. The optimum is a function of the price of feedstocks, products and intermediate streams as provided by the refinery planning optimization. The solution is implemented automatically by linear or non-linear multivariable constraint controllers operating each of the processing units of said plant.

Abstract: A method and system for real-time optimization of a process which is scheduled using a single-period or multi-period, steady-state planning model and optimization program which can be a Linear Program (LP) or Non-Linear Program (NLP), and is controlled by means of linear or non-linear multivariable constraint controls (MVC). A steady-state model based on first principles of chemistry and physics of a plant is applied with a non-linear optimizer to calculate the optimum operating point of said oil refinery at any desired frequency such that the refinery can be considered to be operating in steady-state. The economic optimum is a function of the price of feedstocks, products and intermediate streams as provided by the refinery planning optimization. The solution is implemented automatically by linear or non-linear multivariable constraint controllers operating each of the processing units of said plant.

Abstract: A system and method, which may be implemented in a plant such as a refinery, are provided for identifying at least one mismatch between operation of at least one process unit and a scheduled target for that process unit. Production values are obtained for each process unit of interest, as are prices and scheduled targets for each process unit. A differential profit value is calculated for each process unit or the set of process units, the differential profit value representing a difference in profit based on the scheduled target and the production value for the profit units. The differential profit value can be indicative of the mismatch. Remedial action can then be taken to alter a scheduled constraint of one or more process units, or an operational constraint of one or more process units.