Patents by Inventor Douglas Timmer

Douglas Timmer has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7139619
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the system for modeling the dynamics thereof. The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the system modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values. A control input device then applies the optimized input values to the system after optimization thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener, Steven J. McGarel
  • Patent number: 7110834
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the system for modeling the dynamics thereof. The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the system modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values. A control input device then applies the optimized input values to the system after optimization thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener, Steven J. McGarel
  • Patent number: 7050866
    Abstract: A method for providing independent static and dynamic models in a prediction, control and optimization environment utilizes an independent static model (20) and an independent dynamic model (22). The static model (20) is a rigorous predictive model that is trained over a wide range of data, whereas the dynamic model (22) is trained over a narrow range of data. The gain K of the static model (20) is utilized to scale the gain k of the dynamic model (22). The forced dynamic portion of the model (22) referred to as the bi variables are scaled by the ratio of the gains K and k. The bi have a direct effect on the gain of a dynamic model (22). This is facilitated by a coefficient modification block (40). Thereafter, the difference between the new value input to the static model (20) and the prior steady-state value is utilized as an input to the dynamic model (22). The predicted dynamic output is then summed with the previous steady-state value to provide a predicted value Y.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 7047089
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables. The predicted manipulatible variables are then output after the step of adjusting the gain k.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Publication number: 20060100720
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the system for modeling the dynamics thereof. The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the system modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values. A control input device then applies the optimized input values to the system after optimization thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Publication date: May 11, 2006
    Inventors: Gregory Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John Havener, Steven McGarel
  • Patent number: 7024252
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables. The predicted manipulatible variables are then output after the step of adjusting the gain k.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Publication number: 20060020352
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables. The predicted manipulatible variables are then output after the step of adjusting the gain k.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Publication date: January 26, 2006
    Inventors: Gregory Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John Havener
  • Publication number: 20050075737
    Abstract: A method for providing independent static and dynamic models in a prediction, control and optimization environment utilizes an independent static model (20) and an independent dynamic model (22). The static model (20) is a rigorous predictive model that is trained over a wide range of data, whereas the dynamic model (22) is trained over a narrow range of data. The gain K of the static model (20) is utilized to scale the gain k of the dynamic model (22). The forced dynamic portion of the model (22) referred to as the bi variables are scaled by the ratio of the gains K and k. The bi have a direct effect on the gain of a dynamic model (22). This is facilitated by a coefficient modification block (40). Thereafter, the difference between the new value input to the static model (20) and the prior steady-state value is utilized as an input to the dynamic model (22). The predicted dynamic output is then summed with the previous steady-state value to provide a predicted value Y.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Publication date: April 7, 2005
    Inventors: Gregory Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John Havener
  • Publication number: 20040210325
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 6738677
    Abstract: A method for providing independent static and dynamic models in a prediction, control and optimization environment utilizes an independent static model (20) and an independent dynamic model (22). The static model (20) is a rigorous predictive model that is trained over a wide range of data, whereas the dynamic model (22) is trained over a narrow range of data. The gain K of the static model (20) is utilized to scale the gain k of the dynamic model (22). The forced dynamic portion of the model (22) referred to as the bi variables are scaled by the ratio of the gains K and k. The bi have a direct effect on the gain of a dynamic model (22). This is facilitated by a coefficient modification block (40). Thereafter, the difference between the new value input to the static model (20) and the prior steady-state value is utilized as an input to the dynamic model (22). The predicted dynamic output is then summed with the previous steady-state value to provide a predicted value Y.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 6735483
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Publication number: 20040059441
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the system for modeling the dynamics thereof. The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the system modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 6625501
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the plant for modeling the dynamics thereof. The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the plant modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values. A control input device then applies the optimized input values to the plant after optimization thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Publication number: 20030088322
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the plant for modeling the dynamics thereof The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the plant modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Publication number: 20030078684
    Abstract: A method for providing independent static and dynamic models in a prediction, control and optimization environment utilizes an independent static model (20) and an independent dynamic model (22). The static model (20) is a rigorous predictive model that is trained over a wide range of data, whereas the dynamic model (22) is trained over a narrow range of data. The gain K of the static model (20) is utilized to scale the gain k of the dynamic model (22). The forced dynamic portion of the model (22) referred to as the bl variables are scaled by the ratio of the gains K and k. The bi have a direct effect on the gain of a dynamic model (22). This is facilitated by a coefficient modification block (40). Thereafter, the difference between the new value input to the static model (20) and the prior steady-state value is utilized as an input to the dynamic model (22). The predicted dynamic output is then summed with the previous steady-state value to provide a predicted value Y.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Publication number: 20030065410
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 6493596
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a non-linear mill. A linear controller is provided having a linear gain k that is operable to receive inputs representing measured variables of the plant and predict on an output of the linear controller predicted control values for manipulatible variables that control the plant. A non-linear model of the plant is provided for storing a representation of the plant over a trained region of the operating input space and having a steady-state gain K associated therewith. The gain k of the linear model is adjusted with the gain K of the non-linear model in accordance with a predetermined relationship as the measured variables change the operating region of the input space at which the linear controller is predicting the values for the manipulatible variables. The predicted manipulatible variables are then output after the step of adjusting the gain k.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keller, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 6487459
    Abstract: A method for providing independent static and dynamic models in a prediction, control and optimization environment utilizes an independent static model (20) and an independent dynamic model (22). The static model (20) is a rigorous predictive model that is trained over a wide range of data, whereas the dynamic model (22) is trained over a narrow range of data. The gain K of the static model (20) is utilized to scale the gain k of the dynamic model (22). The forced dynamic portion of the model (22) referred to as the bi variables are scaled by the ratio of the gains K and k. The bi have a direct effect on the gain of a dynamic model (22). This is facilitated by a coefficient modification block (40). Thereafter, the difference between the new value input to the static model (20) and the prior steady-state value is utilized as an input to the dynamic model (22). The predicted dynamic output is then summed with the previous steady-state value to provide a predicted value Y.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 6438430
    Abstract: A kiln thermal and combustion control. A predictive model is provided of the dynamics of selected aspects of the operation of the plant for modeling the dynamics thereof. The model has at least two discrete models associated therewith that model at least two of the selected aspects, the at least two discrete models having different dynamic responses. An optimizer receives desired values for the selected aspects of the operation of the plant modeled by the model and optimizes the inputs to the model to minimize error between the predicted and desired values. A control input device then applies the optimized input values to the plant after optimization thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener
  • Patent number: 5933345
    Abstract: A method for providing independent static and dynamic models in a prediction, control and optimization environment utilizes an independent static model and an independent dynamic model. The static model is a rigorous predictive model that is trained over a wide range of data, whereas the dynamic model is trained over a narrow range of data. The gain K of the static model is utilized to scale the gain k of the dynamic model. The forced dynamic portion of the model referred to as the b.sub.i variables are scaled by the ratio of the gains K and k. The b.sub.i have a direct effect on the gain of a dynamic model. This is facilitated by a coefficient modification block. Thereafter, the difference between the new value input to the static model and the prior steady-state value is utilized as an input to the dynamic model. The predicted dynamic output is then summed with the previous steady-state value to provide a predicted value Y. Additionally, the path that is traversed between steady-state value changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Pavilion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Martin, Eugene Boe, Stephen Piche, James David Keeler, Douglas Timmer, Mark Gerules, John P. Havener