Patent ID: 7720575

Claim:
A pipeline flow control optimization system comprising: a pipeline optimization module comprising at least one optimization model, wherein the pipeline optimization module is configured to produce a simulated optimum compressor configuration for a plurality of compressors on a pipeline; a multivariable controller configured to control the plurality of compressors on the pipeline based on the simulated optimum compressor configuration, the multivariable controller further configured to provide each controlled compressor with an optimal target setpoint; a monitor configured to monitor the pipeline, including the plurality of compressors on the pipeline, and to sense at least one upset condition; and an upset condition handler configured to react to at least one unset condition that was not simulated by the pipeline optimization module by calculating an adjustment factor for at least one of the plurality of compressors, wherein the adjustment factor is calculated to prevent the at least one compressor from exceeding an operating parameter, calculating an optimal adjusted setpoint by applying the adjustment factor to the optimal target setpoint for the at least one of the plurality of compressors, and providing the optimal adjusted setpoint to the multivariable controller, wherein the adjustment factor and optimal adjusted setpoint correct for the at least one upset condition that was not simulated by the pipeline optimization module.