SyDCoD Knowledge-based student training tool to fault diagnosis in a distillation column

A Coupled-System approach (SyDCoD) for student training tool to fault diagnosis in a distillation column has been developed. The basic methodology based on the coupling between symbolic-numeric computing integration in which the symbolical computing is represented by a knowledge base of diagnosis and the numerical computing is represented by a simulation. The Knowledge Base approach involves a structure hierarchical diagnosis and structure pattern-matching by categorisation of component malfunction. The hierarchy is a collection of small individual components coordinated to achieve at an overall diagnosis. This fault hierarchy is particularly effective in handling multiple symptoms and multiple fault situations. This methodology give to the students or the student operators better initiation and better understanding on the failure diagnosis in the distillation column plant. The coupled system problem-solver strategy gives more posibilities to students how to choose the strategy to solve their problem.