Patent ID: 9195229
Filing Date: 2015-11-24
Classification: F16K,G01R,G05B

Abstract:
1. A method of testing a control system including communications, control signal routing, wiring and a valve which is operable by a solenoid, the method comprising: sending a command message from a command module to a single board computer (SBC), the command message comprising a test tag instructing the SBC to apply a pulse of current through a coil of the solenoid, the pulse of current being insufficient to cause the solenoid to operate the valve, wherein the valve is a subsea directional control valve of a subsea fluid extraction well having a topside control location and the application of said pulse of current through the coil is caused from the topside control location of the fluid extraction well; and monitoring a response of the system to the pulse of current, wherein monitoring the response comprises comparing the response to a predetermined value to detect whether the control signal routing is functioning properly, wherein operation of the valve is normally controlled from the topside location via a communication route including the control signal route, and during testing, the step of applying a pulse of current through the coil takes place via the same communication route.