Abstract: A system, method, and article of manufacture suitable for determining setpoints of the control variables to optimize the process while taking into account the process-limiting variables in applications where responses are highly non-linear. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises determining an actual rate of change of a performance limiting process parameter; calculating a predicted rate of change for the performance limiting process parameter for a predetermined future time interval; and adjusting a setpoint for the control variables to optimize the process while taking into account the performance limiting process parameter using the actual rate of change and the predicted rate of change.

Abstract: The systems and the methods relating to process control optimizations systems useful to manage oilfield hydrocarbon production. The systems and the methods utilize intelligent software objects which exhibit automatic adaptive optimization behavior. The systems and the methods can be used to automatically manage hydrocarbon production in accordance with one or more production management goals using one or more adaptable software models of the production processes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to process control optimization systems which utilize an adaptive optimization software system comprising goal seeking intelligent software objects; the goal seeking intelligent software objects further comprise internal software objects which include expert system objects, adaptive models objects, optimizer objects, predictor objects, sensor objects, and communication translation objects. The goal seeking intelligent software objects can be arranged in a hierarchical relationship whereby the goal seeking behavior of each intelligent software object can be modified by goal seeking intelligent software objects higher in the hierarchical structure. The goal seeking intelligent software objects can also be arranged in a relationship which representationally corresponds to the controlled process' flow of materials or data.

Abstract: A sparging system assembly having an improved nozzle for use in a flotation separation column. The sparging system of the present invention uses an elastomeric check valve type nozzle to form the desired size of flotation bubbles in the column. The system further comprises an installation configuration and valving arrangement for the easy, efficient replacement of any worn or damaged elastomeric check valve type nozzle during the operation of the flotation separation column.