Applying Computers to Time-Dependent Processes

Time-dependent (sequence control) processes lend themselves to control techniques that differ from those employed in other real-time control applications. Some tasks of the computer are time critical; however, many tasks can operate in a time-deferred mode to increase the utilization of the computer. Control systems for a pipeline operation are examples of this control philosophy. The computer is used to gather and display operational information, and execute certain predefined control sequences. Where possible, industry standard techniques are used in software definition.