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Problem Statement: This solutions provides a query example to create a report of status and configuration for all repositories and file sets in an Aspen InfoPlus.21 server based on examples queries provided as part of the default installation located on folder C:\Program Files\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\db21\sample_programs\TestAtIP21HistAdminSQLPlus. This expand the example provided of the use of Aspen InfoPlus.21 History Admin 1.0 Type Library and provides a quick method to see the global state of the historian configuration that can be useful when a lot of repositories has been configured as part of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database. | Solution: To run the query download the file 'Repository and fileset report.txt' attached on this solution and copy the code in a new window in Aspen SQLplus. Before running the query you will need to add a reference to Aspen InfoPlus.21 History Admin 1.0 Type Library:
To add the reference go to the View /
Keywords: SQLplus
Repository
File set
References: s menu in Aspen SQLplus, check the library and click OK. |
Problem Statement: Q1:
Why does the price of a control valve remain the same when a Std positioner is replaced by a Smart positioner?
Q2:
Why is the standard positioner option available on the instrumentation menu when it is always provided as an integral part of the valve? | Solution: A1:
The control valve price remains the same but you will notice that "E/P Smart Positioner" now appears and this represents the cost of upgrading from the std positioner.
A2:
The standard positioner is provided with each valve unless the user specifies at the project, area, or component level that a Smart Positioner is required. Even though the standard positioner is the default, it must be included as a possible input so the user can specify Smart at the project or area level but over-ride this choice for an individual component (or area).
KeyWords
standard, position, positioner, valve, controller, PID
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: NETSTAT command can be used to display TCP network connections status and correlated ports usage with specific process. This command can be used to find possible network issues that could be affecting process related de Aspen InfoPlus.21 raised by changes on network infrastructure, firewalls rules, domain policies, etc.
This solution provides basic explanation on how to use NETSTAT command and RPCINFO.exe tool for processes running by Aspen InfoPlus.21 which use communication by NobleNet PortMapper tool, these includes:
TSK_ORIG_SERVER
TSK_ADMIN_SERVER
TSK_EXCEL_SERVER
TSK_APEX_SERVER
TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER
TSK_BATCH21_SERVER
A description of these tasks can be found on solution What is the role of the RPC tasks in the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database?.
Note: NETSTAT command is available only if the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocol is installed as a component for network adapters. For a full description of this command refer to https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb490947.aspx. | Solution: I. The RPC Info Tool (only available until V10.x, removed from V11 and later)
The RPCINFO.exe tool can be located on any installation of Aspen InfoPlus.21 server and client machines on path C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\AspenTech Shared\Portmapper. This tools allow to create a quick view of the ports used by some processes using the Info / Portmap Dump option:
This tool is able to provide a number of port used that we will correlate with Aspen InfoPlus.21 process later. A typical dump of port for an InfoPlus.21 server should look like this:
Port columns display the number of the port used by an InfoPlus process. These number should be different between InfoPlus.21 servers and even after re-starting database as it will be explained later. These port number can be used to find the process which is using that particular port as it is explained on section III.
II. Using NETSTAT to correlated port numbers and process
On the InfoPlus.21 server open a command prompt and run the command as follow:
NETSTAT -aon
This should display a list as follow:
As the image show, the command retrieves a list of local ports number in use, remote node in which are connected as well as the status and protocol (TCP or UDP). The last columns show the Process ID (PID) for a process running on this machine. This PID number can help to find a process running using Windows Task Manager:
PID column is not displayed by default and should be added by using the View menu or by right clicking on column header depending of the Window's version.
III. Correlation between port number and TSK_ running
Information retrieved by the RPCINFO.exe tool can be used to correlate a port number with a process running by InfoPlus.21 database, for example:
In this case, the port number 58732 is used by the program with version number 2. This version number can be used to found the process using it as a parameter using the InfoPlus.21 Manager tool, in this case:
TSK_ADMIN_SERVER is the process using the -v2 parameter as part of the command line parameters. The InfoPlus.21 Manager tool can also provide the PID number of the process as running on Windows, so that, it is possible to use the Windows Task Manager to find more information about it:
This windows can show useful information like the Status, user running it and executable and parameters used. Notice that PID columns and Command line columns are not displayed by default and should be added by using the View menu or by right clicking on column header depending of the Window's version.
Notice also that all tasks running infoplus21_api_server.exe as executable use a different -v parameter which can be used to correlated all of the on this way. If no custom change has been done on InfoPlus.21 tasks, default values are as follow:
TSK_ORIG_SERVER
-v1
TSK_ADMIN_SERVER
-v2
TSK_EXCEL_SERVER
-v4
TSK_APEX_SERVER
-v3
TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER
-v5
TSK_BATCH21_SERVER
-v6
IV. Sighting the state of communications
The list retrieved by the NETSTAT command can be filtered to find specific port number or PID number used as follow:
NETSTAT -aon | find "<port or pid number>"
For example, based on next portmap dump result:
Process version 2 (TSK_ ADMIN_SERVER) is using port 58732. The NETSTAT command can be used as follow:
So, port 58732 is using TCP protocol, and is on LISTENING status, used by process with PID 6360 and only on the local side (in this case the Infoplus.21 server in which the command has been executed).
The ip address 0.0.0.0:58732 is a local address that has not been assigned because no application is using the port even locally, the second address 0.0.0.0:0 should be a remote communication on that port, which in this case is also not used,
Since TSK_ADMIN_SERVER provide access to the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool, if we open the tool (and extended the node with the server name) on the InfoPlus.21 server, this will make the result of the command execution to change as follow:
We got three results:
1) Port 58732 is still on LISTENING state
2) Port 58732 is used by the process 6360 (TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER) to get connection from the node 10.36.48.202:58732 to the node 10.36.48.202:62877. This is basically a call to himself on the local node, which is done by TCP communication even on the same box.
3) Port 58732 is used by the process 1020, looking for it into Windows Task Manager:
This is the InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool that has been opened by the Administrator user on the local server.
Notice that result 2 and 3 complement each other communications: the TSK_ADMIN_SERVER (PID 6360) open communication using port 58732 to the InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool which receive a dynamic port number for it to work, 62877. The InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool (PID 1020) answer this communication using the same port number assigned, 62877, to the TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER on the port used by the task, 58732. In both cases, port status is ESTABLISHED, which means that both processes have answered communications as expected, so that, they will be working without communication issues.
Now, if we close Aspen InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool on the server, and run the NETSTAT command again we get:
In this case, port 58732 is still running TSK_ADMIN_SERVER process on PID 6360 and is still LISTENING to new communications. However, previous communication stablished with the InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool using port 62877 (that has been closed) is on TIME_WAIT, this is, the communication has not been closed yet even when no process is using it (PID number is 0).
This is not a limitation within Aspentech products, this is the way in which TCP communications works:
TCP connections cannot be closed immediately due to packets that can arrive out of order or be retransmitted after the connection has been closed. Two states will indicate this status:
CLOSE_WAIT indicates that the remote node has closed the connection.
TIME_WAIT indicates that local node has closed the connection.
The connection is being kept around so that any delayed packets can be matched to the connection and handled appropriately, after a while the status should change to the initial one:
Here's an example of communication with a remote node:
Initial state on server:
After InfoPlus.21 Administrator has been opened on remote node:
On server:
On Client:
PID 20208 correspond to InfoPlus.21 Administrator Tool running on remote node.
After closing the remote application, NETSTAT command retrieves again only the LISTENING status as the beginning. Notice in this case that reply by the client application must be retrieved by running NETSTAT on the client node.
V. Notes of functionality by Noblenet PortMapper service.
V.I Initial communication
Processes that get connection to InfoPlus.21 using Noblenet Portmapper began any communication using the port 111. So that, this port should be on LISTENING on both side (server and client nodes).
It is possible to use NETSTAT command to find the result of two different parameters as follow:
NETSTAT -aon | findstr "<string1> <string2>"
This can be useful in this case to retrieve the information of a particular port (in this case port 111) and connections with a remote node. The next example shows how expected communication states on port 111 while stablishing connection:
Initial state on server:
ip address 10.36.48.230 is a remote client.
Initial state on client
Notice that we're using findstr to input two parameters to look for the NETSTAT command. Now, after opening InfoPlus.21 Administrator tool on the remote client:
Temporary state on server:
Temporary state on client:
Previous images show a quick catch of temporary state on both nodes just after the communication has been stablished, on the server side it is possible to see that port 111 is on SYN_SENT status used by process with PID 6360 (again TSK_ADMIN_SERVER), this status indicate that package has been sent to remote node (the client machine, 10.36.48.230) on port 111 and is waiting for a reply. On the client side several calls has been done by the server node (10.36.48.202) on ports 80, 111 and 58709. Port 80 is used by IIS as default port and this calls correspond to communication for components like AFW security, port 58709 is used by the Noblenet Portmapper service running on the server and can be retrieved by the RPCINFO.exe tool, and finally port 111 to reply the request sent by the server which shows the SYN_SENT status.
The TIME_WAIT status displayed on previous image for the client node shows initial communication done that has been answered and will be closed after a while, showing that port 111 (as well as other in the case of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Administrator) need to be opened as part of the initial communication. These ports are closed after a while leaving only the ports ESTABLISHED for communication between InfoPlus.21 server and Administrator tool running on the client:
State on the server after initial communications has been replied:
State on the client after initial communications has been replied:
A communication issue on port 111 (or other used as part of initial communication calls) is retrieved when the SYN_SENT status remains constant after a while (on the server) and no ESTABLISHED message is retrieved on client machine. The SYN_SENT port status will also show not just the port number but also the PID number of the stuck process. In some cases, restarting the process can fix the issue, but in most cases, this means a network communication issue that probably can be resolved by looking into specific firewall rules, network settings, windows host files, etc.
V. Summary of correlations
The next image shows a summary of how NETSTAT, RPCINFO.exe tool and Windows Task Manager show related information:
Keywords: Noblenet PortMapper
TSK_ORIG_SERVER
TSK_ADMIN_SERVER
TSK_EXCEL_SERVER
TSK_APEX_SERVER
TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER
TSK_BATCH21_SERVER
References: None |
Problem Statement: This solution provides examples on how to set up Aspen InfoPlus.21 database and record level security on two commons scenarios:
I. How to allow writes operations on specific tags for selected users.
II. How to prevent tags visualization based on plant areas.
NOTE: These procedures are provided just as examples and users should have precautions to prevent unexpected locking of database information. | Solution: Before starting setting up AFW configuration
As a recommended practice to prevent locking out the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database, it is necessary to start creating an Administrator role with all permission at database level. This can be done as follow:
1. Open AFW Manager.
2. Expand the AFW node and right click over Role, select New / Role option
3. Provide a name and a description for the role:
4. Right click over the new role created, select Properties and go to Members tab. Then click on Add button and write the name of user or windows groups of user to be administrator of InfoPlus.21 database:
5. Close the AFW Security Manager and save changes.
6. Open InfoPlus.21 Administrator and right click over main node, select Properties and then go to Permission tab.
7. Add the Administrators role and check all permission for it:
This role should not be removed or permission changed to allow
I. How to allow writes operations on specific tags for selected users.
In this example we will set up permission as follow:
- A role named Users_Role should have permission to read all tags from InfoPlus.21 database without been able to write values on any of them.
- A role named Writers_Role should have permission to read all tags from InfoPlus.21 database but also is able to write values on specific tags defined by an Administrator.
To achieve this configuration we need to set roles as follow:
1. On AFW Security Manager create a role called Users_Role and another role called Writers_Role.
Close AFW security manager and save changes.
2. Add both roles at database level and set up security as follow:
For Users_Role select Read and Read All permission
For Writers_Role select Read and Write permission.
3. Use the next query to grant Read permission at record level for all IP_AnalogDef records to users on role Writers_Role:
Grant Read On (Select Name from IP_AnalogDef) to Writers_Role
4. Select one of the tag in which users on Writers_Role will be able to write values. On the permission on that tag, check the Write General and Write Restricted permission.
At this point, user on Users_Role is able to read all values since permission for it has been sent at database level, the Read All setting will overwrite record level permission when this is set on next steps. Users on Writers_Role also have permission to read all values but, before step 3, they are also able to write on all of them; to prevent this, step 3 set permission at record level that grant read permission for all tags (all IP_AnalogDef records) which overwrite database permissions for Read/Write allowing users on this role to just read values, then, steps 4 is the last process that allow write operation for user on this role since this is also allowed (but not overwritten) at database level.
II. How to prevent tags visualization based on plant areas.
In this example we will set up permission as follow:
- User should have permission to read and write values on all the tags from his plant area without been able to interact with tags from other areas.
- We would like to manage user based on roles defined for each plant area.
To achieve this configuration we need to set roles as follow:
1. On AFW Security Manager create a role for plant area1 (Role_Area1) and plant area 2 (Role_Area2).
2. Add both roles at database level and set up security to assign Read and Write permission on both roles.
3. Set Read and Write permission to all record from an specific area, you can do this using a query like:
Grant Read, WriteGeneral, WriteRestricted
On (Select Name from IP_AnalogDef Where IP_Plant_Area = 'Area 1')
To Role_Area1;
Grant Read, WriteGeneral, WriteRestricted
On (Select Name from IP_AnalogDef Where IP_Plant_Area = 'Area 2')
To Role_Area2
At this point, users on Role_Area1 are able to fully interact with record of plant area 1 without been able to even see tags from plant area 2.
Since there is no record permission at database level that will overwrite permission at record level (Read All or Write All), it is not necessary to specify that roles from other areas does not have permissions to read/write values on other area's tags.
This example can be easily extended to cover permission on example I by creating roles like Area1_Users and Area1_Writers.
Keywords: AFW Security
Database security
Record Level Security
References: None |
Problem Statement: The Tag DCS Value and DCS Quality don’t display for the Tag. What might be wrong? | Solution: The Tag DCS Value and DCS Quality don’t display for the Tag. Instead the DCS value field is blank and the DCS quality says switched off.
This may be due user session preferences being defined.
CIM-io is disabled. If the CIM-io is disabled then the Tags in that project will no longer be able to communicate with the DCS server via the Cim-IO device. Ensure that the ‘Disable Cim-IO’ check box is unchecked.
2. Option to display value for DCS Tags is not set. This option has to be selected via File menu| Options in order to display DCS values and quality for certain tags:
To display the DCS information for a tag, ensure Cim-IO is not disabled and option to display is switched on. Note that if Cim-IO is switched on but DCS displays are not, the tag value will still get updated from the DCS but the DCS value will not be displayed.
Keywords: DCS is switched off, disable cim-io, Display DCS
References: None |
Problem Statement: There may be some cases in which it may be convenient to do a search and see the results for other record fields other than the default one when using Aspen Tag Browser.
This solution provides you with a step by step on how to perform an advanced search. | Solution: In the Aspen Tag Browser go to the search tab in the menu bar and select Advanced Search.
In the “Records and Fields” tab, select the records you want to do the search over. Such as IP_AnalogDef, Ip_DiscreteDef, IP_TextDef or any other custom definition family you want.
For each one of the records, select the fields to be displayed in the Common Fields sections such as IP_ENG_UNITS, IP_ARCHIVING
Once you have selected the fields in the Common Fields window, switch to the Search criteria Tab and add the needed rules for the reach criteria. Once finish you can click the execute button.
You can add to favorites the advanced search you have created by selecting the Add to Favorites in the Favorites tab and typing a suitable name for it. Then, you can find the favorite searches by selecting View>Server Tree> Favorites in the menu bar.
Keywords: Advanced Search
Tag Browser
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to reset your support center password | Solution: 1.Go to https://esupport.aspentech.com/
2. Click on Forgot Password
3.Enter your corporate email address and click on Submit
4.Please follow the instructions in the email to create a new password
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How does the MAX VOL function work when multiple source tanks are used? | Solution: MAX VOL function allows you to use maximum quantity for the event, as limited by available volume of the source tanks or the maximum usable volume of product tank.
To understand how it works let’s consider a crude transfer event «test», when crude is transferred from two source tanks T01, T03 to one destination tank T111.
On the start of the event
tank T01 has available volume equal to 30 MBbl (Available Volume = Current Volume – Minimum Volume);
tank T03 has available volume equal to 60 MBbl;
tank T111 has available volume equal to 100 MBbl.
To maximize the volume
1. Launch «test» event dialog bow from the Event screen
On the right side you can see the Max Vol button
2. Depending on which relation between streams from these two source tanks you choose ,Max Vol will calculate the quantity for the event
2a. The relation between streams are declared by percentage (%)
The Max Vol defines in which tank maximum available volume is less and take this value to calculate the quantity per desired percentage.
If 75% of Crude transfer quantity goes from T01 and 25% - from T03, then the calculated quantity is 40 MBbl.
That is because T01 has the least available volume among tanks (30 MBbl).
30 MBbl – 75%
X MBbl – 100%
X = 30*100/75 = 40 (MBbl)
2b. The relation between streams are declared by quantity
If you define the quantities of streams from tanks then Crude transfer quantity will be calculated using the ratio between these predefined quantities of streams from T01 and T03.
If predefined quantity from T01 is 10 MBbl and 30 MBbl - from T03, then the calculated quantity for T01 and T03 will be 20 MBbl and 60 MBbl, respectively. So, the Crude transfer quantity will be 80 MBbl.
The ratio, which should be saved during maximization, is VOL(T01):VOL(T03) = 10:30 = 1:3. In this case we can’t use maximum available volume from T01 (30 MBbl), because we need 30*3/1 = 90 MBbl crude from T03. T03 has only 60 MBbl available, so we can use 60*1/3 = 20 MBbl crude from T01.
Pay attention that Max Vol calculation also considers destination tank available volume and other events, which take place at the same time on the background.
Keywords: Max Vol
Maximum Volume
References: None |
Problem Statement: When you are trying to run an error run report for a calculation in AspenCalc, or any other report you are getting error essages such as:
DataField’ErrorReport.Calculation’ not found
Column(Calculation) Does not exist in the appropriate rowset
Or any other error shown in the following images:
This KB article contains the steps to solve this issue. | Solution: This error messages are more likely generated when the user does not have proper permission to Read/Write and Execute in the Aspen Calc Server. The full path is:
C:\Users\<Windows User Name>\AppData\Local\AspenTech\Aspen Calc\Report
If the folder is not created, then you may need to manually create the folder Aspen Calc\Report.
Keywords: Error.Report.Calculation
AspenCalc Error
References: None |
Problem Statement: 幾つかのAspenOne製品のインストールには、Microsoft Internet Information Services(IIS)とそのコンポーネントが有効の状態になっている必要のあるものがあります。ここではWindows 7にAspenOne製品をインストールする際に有効にするコンポーネントについて説明します。 | Solution: 1. 「コントロールパネル」→「プログラムと機能」
2. 左ペインの「Windowsの機能の有効化もしくは無効化」をクリックしてください。
3. 「インターネット インフォメーション サービス」をチェックしてOKボタンを押してください。IISと幾つかのコンポーネントがインストールされます。
4. AspenOneにて必要なコンポーネントを追加でチェックして、OKボタンをクリックしてインストールしてください。 追加するコンポーネントは以下の通りです。
KeyWords
IIS,
Windows 7
Internet Information Services
日本語, Japanese
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen InfoPlus21 fails to read data from an Aspen Cim-IO server and receives a checksum error in the CimIO_MSG.log file.
ERROR: CIMIO_MSG_RECV_BADCHECKSUM, Checksum in message header doesn't match calculated value | Solution: The error can be resolved by disabling the Aspen Cim-IO Checksum.
On the Aspen Cim-IO server;
Open the Cim-IO Interface Manager
Select the Checksum tab
Remove the check from [Enable checksum]
On the Aspen InfoPlus21 server;
Open the Cim-IO IP21 Connection Manager
Select the Checksum tab
Remove the check from [Enable checksum]
Restart the Aspen Cim-IO Interface and Aspen Cim-IO Client.
Note; Checksum is only supported if both the Aspen InfoPlus21 and the Aspen Cim-IO servers are the same version and it’s enabled on both nodes.
KeyWords:
CIM
CCM
badchecksum
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why does the Vendor Cost Data Section in Design Data sheet for Gas Compressors seems to be missing some line items? The motor cost and the testing cost do not add up to the listed TOTAL COST. | Solution: The explanation for this is that for non-fabricated items (such as reciprocating compressors and motors), there is no break down of the costs for material component cost, shop manpower cost, shop overhead, general office overhead and profit.
We only include those extra break downs for fabricated items in the system (like Heat Exchangers and Towers), because we actually build it from plate.
Keywords: gas, compressor, vendor, total cost
References: None |
Problem Statement: Q1:
Why does the price of a control valve remain the same when a Std positioner is replaced by a Smart positioner?
Q2:
Why is the standard positioner option available on the instrumentation menu when it is always provided as an integral part of the valve? | Solution: A1:
The control valve price remains the same but you will notice that "E/P Smart Positioner" now appears and this represents the cost of upgrading from the std positioner.
A2:
The standard positioner is provided with each valve unless the user specifies at the project, area, or component level that a Smart Positioner is required. Even though the standard positioner is the default, it must be included as a possible input so the user can specify Smart at the project or area level but over-ride this choice for an individual component (or area).
Keywords: standard, position, positioner, valve, controller, PID
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I set the labor rate for Craft Code 98 (Craft Helper) and Craft Code 99 (Foreman) as these crafts are not available in the Craft Wage Rate/Productivity form? | Solution: The Helper wage rate can be accessed and adjusted on the General Rates form in the Project Basis. The rate can either defined as fixed rate, or a percentage of the principal craft, in the crew, capped at 100%.
The Helper and Foreman wage rates are not included in the Craft Wage Rate/Productivity form and the reason is to improve error checking. These 2 crafts should not be included when taking into account the principal or highest paid crafts as this is the basis by which the wage percent of craft is calculated.
This ensures that the Helper and Foreman wage rates, if entered as a percentage, are not double-counted and therefore easier to track instead of having to check in both the General and Craft Rate forms.
Similarly, the Foreman wage rate can be entered as a fixed rate, or as perdentage of highest paid craft in the crew..
Keywords: Foreman, craft, helper, 98, 99, wage, labor, rate
References: None |
Problem Statement: Understanding how to use the new Currency file and it’s purpose. | Solution: A currency data file is now generated for all projects. The data represents the user name for a currency to use in the project and the currency conversion to the country basis currency (not the project basis currency).
Note: Conversion is specified with respect to the country basis currency not the project currency.
Hence the second active line of any currency.dat file is the conversion between the project basis currency and the country basis currency (if the project has a different country basis), i.e., if the project is in Canada, the second active line is:
CUR USD USDDOLLARS U.S.DOLLARS 1
The first line gives the conversion between the country basis currency and the country basis currency, and is always 1.0.
Starting with the second line, the actual conversion for different currencies can be seen:
CUR USD RMB Renminbi Chinese Yuan Renminbi 8.287
1 2 3 4 5 6
CUR USD RMB Renminbi Chinese Yuan Renminbi 8.287
1.-The first column is a generic field that says currency conversion rate is specified on the line
2.-The next column gives the country basis currency (USD, PS, EU, KY), since currency conversions are available to these four (which correspond to our four country bases).
3.-RMB is the short form that you would want to use in the reports.
4.-Renminbi is the short description for RMB.
5.-Chinese Yuan Renminbi represents the full description so that the user can distinguish between dinars and dollars of various countries.
6.-The last columns say that 1 USD is 8.287 Renminbi
Below are some other examples of conversion from USD to each of the specified currencies.
CUR USD RMBRenminbiChinese Yuan Renminbi 8.287
CUR USD RS Rupee Indian Rupee 45.69
CUR USD KR K RupiahK Indonesian Rupiah 8.448
CUR USD MYRRinggit Malaysian Ringgit 3.817
CUR USD SD Dollar-SSingapore Dollar 1.702
The currencies are used in two ways; first, wherever a procurement cost is specified in a project (e.g., equipment cost), a currency symbol is specified; the user can put in procurement cost + currency symbol.
The system will convert to project currency appropriately and show the results in project currency in the reports. However, another added report, procurement currency report, details project exposure to various currencies.
In addition, the COA file details which currency/country you wish to procure a particular equipment (COA) from.
The system calculates all costs as it always does, and reports in project currency, but the procurement currency report details the particular procurement in the appropriate currency.
Keywords: Currency, Documentation
References: None |
Problem Statement: There are a couple of ways to retrieve stream results from Aspen Plus simulations. This note compares a few, with the user''s perspective of storing the results to exchange simulation data (electronic or printed documents). | Solution: One option is to use the Automation interface of Aspen Plus to copy the results into Excel. The attachment contains an example of Addin in Visual Basic and a document which describes the code in full details.
For simple "one shot" copy, the easiest way is to select a stream from the flowsheet, and display its results. You can then select as many streams as you like from that result form. You can also quickly have all the streams selected if you select "All Streams" in the "Display" pull down option. Then click on the upper square of the table which copies all the results in the clipboard. You can then paste the data.
You can have the stream results printed on the flowsheet, by clicking on the "Stream table" button.
You can control which results are copied by selecting the stream table format (from the "Format" option on the stream results form). There are many predefined stream table formats (*.tff) in Aspen Plus, and you can create your own. You can copy your own stream table format file in the Aspen Plus directory, so that it will be available for all your simulations. One customization that can be useful if you have to work on the same project simulation that has many streams, is to create one stream table format file for each section. You need to add one line in the stream table file to select the streams you want to list.
The syntax is explained in the on-line help. To select the streams you need to add the line:
STREAMS= list of stream names
Example:
STREAMS= 1 2 &
3 4
to display the streams 1, 2, 3 and 4. Note the ampersand (&) character to mark the continuation of the statement on the next line. Lines can not be longer than 72 characters.
KeyWords:
STREAM
TFF
AUTOMATION
VISUAL BASIC
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Combustor Unit Operation Extension, version 1.1 (Illustrates linking into a FORTRAN dll) | Solution: This example extension unit operation non-rigorously simulates a natural gas combustor. It is intended for educational purposes only and illustrates how a HYSYS extension can be linked into a FORTRAN dll.
This extension has been tested in HYSYS versions 3.0.1, 3.1 and 3.2.
Note
This Automation application has been created by AspenTech as an example of what can be achieved through the object architecture of HYSYS. This application is provided for academic purposes only and as such is not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released AspenTech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading and using, agree to assume all risk related to the use of this example. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected]
KeyWords
Combustor Extension, FORTRAN dll
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you specify the temperature, pressure, and duty for an RStoic block when only two specifications are allowed? | Solution: Since the RStoic block allows only two input specifications, you cannot fix all three parameters within the block itself. You will have to specify two variables in the RStoic block and the third variable via a Design Spec. To specify all three:
1. Specify the temperature and pressure as input for the RStoic block. [Note: A Pressure-Temperature (PT) flash is easier to converge than a Pressure-Duty (PQ) flash.
2. Create a Design Spec that converges on the Duty target specification by varying another parameter, i.e., the inlet feed flowrate to the RStoic block, or conversion for a given reaction.
Define: Block-Var, RStoic, Qcalc
Vary: Stream-Var, Feed, Mole-Flow or Block-Var, RStoic, Conv, 1
The attached example shows the configuration for both instances outlined above.
Note: You can also specify the heat of reaction within the RStoic block by changing the Calculation type on the Heat of Reaction sheet to ?Specify heat of reaction?. See solution 3025 for more information.
Keywords: RStoic, reactor, reactions, duty, Design-Spec
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I read multiple tags with the Aspen Cim-IO test client Cim-IO_T_API? | Solution: The Cim-IO Test API has the ability to test multiple tags by using a simple text file.
1. Create a text file using the following format:
TagName Cim-IO Data Type Device Data Type
TAG1 REAL REAL
TAG2 REAL REAL
NOTE1: In this case, the data type for the tags is REAL so the tag name is followed by a space and the appropriate data type, another space and the device data type. Other data types include: double, short, long, ASCII, and are listed in the Aspen Cim-IO Users Guide.
NOTE2: If the tag name contains a space then enclose the tag name in double quotes as in "TAG3 PV".
3. Start Test API and chose option 9 from the menu (Cim-IO Get).
4. Enter the logical device name for the tags.
5. Enter a unit number if your interface requires it. (Most don't, so using the default value of 1 is usually fine.)
6. Enter the number of tags that are in your text file. If you don't want to perform the get request on all of the tags in your text file, you may enter a smaller number of tags. Cim-IO performs the get, starting from the first tag in the file. If you enter a smaller number of tags than are in the file, Test API will omit tags at the end of the text file.
7. Enter a priority.
8. Enter a timeout value.
9. Enter an access type. [CIMIO_AT_SYNC]
10. Enter a frequency.
11. Enter a list ID of -1.
12. Under "Tag name entry options" select 2 (Obtaining tag information from text file).
13. Enter the file name of your text file, including the path and file extension. example: c:\cimiotest.txt
Test API should return information, such as status, value, time stamp, etc. for each tag in the text file (unless you specified a smaller number). If you see an error such as "error opening tag list file", verify the path, file name, and extension are correct.
KeyWords:
interface
cimio
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is there a way to obtain the stream results and petroleum specific properties from Aspen Plus into Excel? | Solution: An example of accessing stream results and petroleum properties in Excel is attached:
PetroStreamInfo.xls (Excel 97 Spreadsheet with VBA code) PetroProp2Excel.bkp (companion Aspen Plus 10.2 Model)
The steps used to build this application are as follows:
In the Aspen Plus model, add a property-set that includes all of the petroleum properties you wish to sample. In the attached backup (.bkp) file, the BARROW crude was selected from the Assay Library and added as a component. Barrow is a good crude for this example since it contains input property curves for Freeze Point, Research Octane, Sulfur content, Paraffin content, Naphthenics content, Aromatics content, Pour Point and Smoke Point. A property set was added to the example called "Excel-PR" and it contains all of these property parameters.
The second step is to use the Aspen Plus Data Browser to find the Setup folder's Report Options subfolder. On the Report Options form, visit the Stream sheet and click on the button labeled "Property Sets". In the Property set dialogue, be sure to highlight the property set created in step 1), above. If the property set is not selected, it will not be available as a result variable in the Variable Explorer.
In the VBA code, paste in the object names from the Aspen Plus Variable Explore (on the Tools pull-down menu). To navigate to the variable names, expand the branches in the Variable Explore (Root > Data > Streams) and then select one of the streams. Choose the Output sub-folder and navigate down to the STRM_UPP subfolder. Under this subfolder, you will find all of the property set values. Be sure to paste the lowest level object name from Aspen Plus into Excel. For example, if you want to print the Research Octane in Excel, the VBA command would be:
Range("a5").value = _
AspenObjectName.Tree.Data.Streams.Elements(as_StreamName) _
.Output.STRM_UPP.Elements("ROC-NO").MIXED.LIQUID.WET.Value
Several examples of this are available in the attached Excel Spreadsheet's VBA code. In the VB Editor, visit MODULE 1 and find the subroutine called GetOutputStreamCompositions. This is a very generic subroutine that would work with any Petroleum model in AspenPlus. The subroutine can be modified to print more stream properties. The only application specific subroutine is also in Module 1, and it is called GetOutputValues. In this subroutine, modify the calls it makes to GetOutputStreamCompositions so that it uses stream names from your model.
KeyWords
vba
automation
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Dehumidifier User Unit Operation | Solution: Attached is a HYSYS case containing the dehumidifier User Unit Op example from the 3.0 Customization Guide manual.
Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released Aspentech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use of these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
sample user unit operation, dehumidifier example
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Workbook Dump v 4.0.1 - Produce an Excel copy of any workbook page within the HYSYS case | Solution: Produces a copy in Excel of the data that is being displayed in the current HYSYS workbook. Workbook Dump has been fully tested in versions 3.0.1, 3.1, 3.2 and 3.4 of HYSYS but should also work with previous and future versions. (See section 6 in the attached User Guide document for troubleshooting information when using Workbook Dump with HYSYS versions other than 3.0.1). Workbook Dump was written using, and fully tested in, Microsoft Excel 2002.
Changes for version 4.0
Modified so that streams not in the current Flowsheet show with an @[TPL Tag] in their names. Now reports Flowsheet corresponding to the Workbook and current Flowsheet environment. Added raw data output feature (this just outputs the numbers without rounding or *'s to mark specified data). Added Horizontal Matrix output function to duplicate new functionality in HYSYS 3.2.
Changes for version 4.0.1
Now correctly deals with non-represented components in HYSYS 3.2+. In previous versions of Workbook dump when reporting the composition of a component not present in the stream these showed as a value of -32768, now they show as *** as they do in HYSYS.
Note
This Automation application has been created by AspenTech as an example of what can be achieved through the object architecture of HYSYS. This application is provided for academic purposes only and as such is not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released AspenTech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading and using, agree to assume all risk related to the use of this example. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
Workbook Dump, Spreadsheet, Macro
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Steady State and Dynamic dH/dT User Variable | Solution: In the attached Hysys 2.2 case the mixer operation has a User Variable (Steady State and Dynamic) that calculates the quantity dH/dT for the stream by flashing at the product stream temperature 1C.
More technically, the mixer product stream is duplicated into a Fluid object which is then flashed to new temperatures at the same pressure. Note that in the Mixer's PostExecute() procedure in steady state the temperature of the product stream is not yet known, since it hasn't had a chance to do its flash yet. Hence an internal PH flash is done to determine what the product stream temperature is.
Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released heritage Hyprotech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
Enthalpy/Temperature, dH/dT, User Variable, Dynamics
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Can an external fortran routine can be used to calculate the
saturation concentration of the precipitate? | Solution: Yes, the Crystallizer block can be used with a user subroutine.
In Solution 102345, the sugar crystallization example has been extented to include a block that uses a user subroutine.
To run the example:
Put both the backup file (crystal2usr.bkp) and the user Fortran subroutine (usrso2.f) in the same directory.
Compile the subroutine in the Simulation Engine Window (Go to Programs -> AspenTech -> Aspen Engineering Suite -> Aspen Plus 1x.x -> Aspen Plus Simulation Engine) by typing: ASPCOMP usrso2
Open the backup file and run.
The equation is simply a linear regression of sucrose solubility data obtained from the Handbook of Chem. and Phys. 35th ed., p. 1629.
See Solution 102345 for more information about specifying the Crystallizer block.
KeyWords:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: HYSYS Stream Table Generator | Solution: A stand-alone VB application that easily exports stream data from HYSYS directly into Excel. Ability to report total streams as well as separate phases. The ability to group components using the "GroupbyName" and the "GroupbyIndex" options. Intended to mimic the easy stream tables customization and generation in HYSIM.
To update your current version of STG 3000, unzip the file MBTable-3000.zip into the same folder where you installed the STG-3000 (if you used the default installation, it should be under "c:\Program Files\MBTable-3000\") replacing the original MBTable-3000.exe file with the one in the zip file. To verify your installation is OK, run the STG 3000 and click on the "About" word at the top of the window. It should indicate version 2.2.3 and the release date August 27th 2001.
Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released Hyprotech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to increase the size of a Cim-Io Log file? | Solution: Open the Cim-IO Interface Manager, or the Cim-IO IP21 Connection Manager.
Select the Variables tab.
Increase the MAX Log Size(Mb) argument to the desired size.
Click Save Configuration.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: In some cases, values coming from the Aspen Cim-IO server must be scaled or converted before they are stored in Aspen InfoPlus.21. For example, users may need to convert values from the Aspen Cim-IO server into another unit of measure for storage in Aspen InfoPlus.21. | Solution: The following procedure allows users to define a linear relationship between data coming from a Aspen Cim-IO server, and the corresponding values stored in Aspen InfoPlus.21. The procedure involves creation of a new engineering unit conversion (Io-Eu-Conv).
In the Aspen InfoPlus.21 Administrator, increase the value for the #_OF_SELECTIONS repeat area of the record Io-Eu-Conv (defined by IoEuConvDef).
Set the appropriate values for the fields in the blank occurrence.
The following example assumes that values in the range 0 -200 are coming from the Aspen CIM-IO device. We want the numbers to be multiplied by 10 (for a range of 0 - 2000) when historized in Aspen InfoPlus.21.
Field name Description
SELECT_DESCRIPTION An appropriate name (for example, Times 10)
IO_VALUE_FORMAT Format for real-value fields in the record (for example, F 7.5)
IO_MAX_COUNTS The maximum value for the incoming data (200)
IO_MIN_COUNTS The minimum value for the incoming data (0)
IO_RANGE_HI The maximum scaled value (2000)
IO_RANGE_LO The minimum scaled value (0)
Go to the GET record which contains the tag with values that must be converted.
Turn IO_Record_Processing OFF
Locate the desired tag in the IO_#TAGS repeat area of the GET record.
In the IO_DATA_CONVERSION field select the appropriate Io-Eu-Conv (in our example, Times 10) from the drop-down list and press Enter.
Turn IO_Record_Processing ON
Keywords: constant, factor, linear, function, scaling, convert, unit, measure
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can the installed version of Aspen Cim-IO Core be determined? | Solution: Open Windows File Explorer and navigate to ..\Common Files\AspenTech Shared" R-click on CimIO.dll and select Properties | Version tab.
KeyWords:
CIM-IO core
cimio.dll
cimio.h
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I'm not using Store and Forward. My IOGetDef records are activated using ScheduledActDef records.
What should I have in the IO_ASYNC? field? | Solution: If you don't have Store and Forward enabled, then you should set the IO_ASYNC? field to NO.
Keywords: S&F not configured
References: None |
Problem Statement: Well Head Extension Unit Op | Solution: Attached is a simple extension unit operation example which models a well head, relating stream flowrate to pressure, using entered PQ relationship data.
Note: This Automation application has been created by AspenTech as an example of what can be achieved through the object architecture of HYSYS. This application is provided for academic purposes only and as such is not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released AspenTech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading and using, agree to assume all risk related to the use of this example. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected]
KeyWords
well head extension
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: User variable to change flowsheet topology | Solution: Load the attached case, and flip the reactor's ply to User Variables. With the current feed, the burner requires 305 kgmole/hr of oxygen. If you set the flow of stream "oxygen" below this threshold, the user var will add a makeup stream. When the stream is no longer needed, it is removed.
Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released heritage-Hyprotech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
flowsheet
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Propylene Oxide Reaction Extension | Solution: Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released heritage-Hyprotech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
KeyWords
propylene oxide reaction extension
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: </u></b>
Compressor Duty User Variable
<b><u> | Solution: </u></b>
The compressor duty on the specsheet shows the heat flow (and takes the corresponding units for heat flow). If there are heaters and coolers in the case, you may not want to change your heat flow to use power units.
One quick way to include the compressor duty in power units is to add a user variable to the compressor which shows energy of the compressor, but selects units for the user variable to be of type Power.
(Note: When creating a user variable, if you do not see the dropdown to change user variable units, in the Winwrap window, toggle the downward facing arrow in the top right corner to Show/Hide Variable Details)
Note: These examples are provided for academic purposes only and as such are not subject to the quality and support procedures of officially released heritage Hyprotech products. Users are strongly encouraged to check performance and results carefully and, by downloading, agree to assume all risk related to the use these examples. We invite any feedback through the normal support channel at [email protected].
<b><u>KeyWords</u></b>
User Variable example, compressor duty, specsheet
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I use the option of convective dryer model in Aspen Plus in V8.0 and V8.2 using the Dryer model from the Model Palette? This option is not available from the ‘Dryer type‘ drop down list under Blocks | Dryer (Name) | Specifications (Form): | Solution: In order to make this option available, one has to select the Dryer model from the Model Palette and place this on the Main Flowsheet. Then specify all the streams including the Inlet gas stream and Separate exhaust stream which are optional (as shown in the screenshot below by S3 and S4 respectively). After this, when going to the block Input Specifications form, the Convective dryer option will be available now:
Keywords: Convective Dryer, Solids, Inlet gas stream, Separate exhaust stream.
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to register for a Support Center Account | Solution: Customers are required to register on our Support Website to access authorized content.
Follow below steps to register on our Support website.
1. Go to https://esupport.aspentech.com/
2. Click Register
3. Enter your corporate email address
4. Complete all fields in the form and click on Submit.
Your account will get registered automatically and If additional information is needed, a Customer Care Specialist will contact you for more details.
KeyWords
Register
account
new user
support account
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When using distributor in Plate Fin Exchanger, EDR reports distributor friction loss for LH and RH separately. Which part of distributor do LH and RH refer to? | Solution: What you see as Right hand (RH) and Lenft Hand (LH) in | Results | Thermal / Hydraulic Summary | Pressure Change | Main Distributors | Tab refers to a break down of stream pressure change into components associated with the far left hand (LH) and far right hand (RH) flow path through an inlet or an outlet distributor. Please see below example. In this figure, Left distributor is specified for outlet header and Twin distributor is specified for intlet header. Regarding left distributor, LH reports Left side of friction and RH reports Right side of friction literally. Regarding twin distibutior, LH refers to shorter side of friction and RH referes to longer side of friction.
Keywords: Plate Fin Excahnger, Twin Distrubutor, Friction loss, LH, RH
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to use Electrolyte Chemistry with volatile components? CO2 should be formed by the Chemistry, but it never appears in the vapor phase. | Solution: If any of the components of a reaction in the Chemistry have a sensible vapor pressure and volatile species are formed, only the true component approach should be used. This can occur with a number of volatile species commonly generated by electrolyte reactions such as carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen-sulfide (H2S), or hydrogen-cyanide (HCN).
The reason lies in the fact that Aspen Plus with the apparent components approach ignores the vapor pressures of the true species that are reaction products (i.e. that are in the right hand side of the dissociation reactions or in either side of the equilibrium ones defining the chemistry). Even if a component is present in the right hand side in one case and in the left hand side in another case, as is the case with consecutive reactions, the apparent approach can not be used. This is by design, since the chemistry is supposed to be used in cases where the reaction products are all in the liquid phase.
For example, if the following chemistry is defined: H2SO4 + NaCN -> Na2SO4 + HCN (gas)
If none of the apparent components (in this case H2SO4 and NaCN) are volatile, there is no way to represent volatile species; hence the volatile species (HCN) will never be formed using the apparent component approach. Since this component is not present, it will never equilibrate into the vapor phase.
The attached file demonstrates the problem. When using the true component approach, CO2 is formed as expected; however when using the apparent component approach, no CO2 is formed.
1APP
1TRUE
2APP
2TRUE
3APP
3TRUE
B1APP
B1TRUE
B1APP
B1TRUE
B1APP
B1TRUE
MIXED
MIXED
LIQUID
LIQUID
VAPOR
VAPOR
Substream: MIXED
Mole Flow kmol/hr
H2O
1110.169
1110.082
89.95582
89.6818
1020.213
1020.4
NH3
29.35899
29.35695
0.10402
0.098433
29.25497
29.25852
CO2
0
0.054262
0
9.42E-07
0
0.054256
NA2CO3
1.886993
0
1.886993
0
0
0
H3O+
0
8.20E-11
0
8.20E-11
0
0
NH4+
0
2.46E-04
0
2.46E-04
0
0
NA+
0
3.773986
0
3.773986
0
0
NH2COO-
0
1.79E-03
0
1.79E-03
0
0
HCO3-
0
0.032581
0
0.032566
0
0
OH-
0
0.143139
0
0.143113
0
0
CO3--
0
1.798362
0
1.798383
0
0
In V7.1 and higher, it is possible to add a check for the phase equilibrium results. This feature can be activated by specifying Warning, Error, or Information for "Check phase equilibrium results" on the Setup | Simulation Options | Check Results sheet.
* WARNING
COMPONENT "NH3" IS NOT IN PHASE EQUILIBRIUM.
RELATIVE ERROR IN VL FUGACITY IS (1.9535E-04).
MOLE FRACTIONS ARE (2.7873E-02) FOR VAPOR AND (1.0304E-03) FOR LIQUID.
FUG COEFFICIENTS ARE (0.9965) FOR VAPOR AND (26.95) FOR LIQUID.
KeyWords
electrolytes reactions equilibrium co2 h2s
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What is Aspen Petroleum Supply Chain Planner (PSCP- formerly called DPO), and how can I use it for my refinery? | Solution: Aspen PSCP is Aspen Petroleum Supply Chain Planner. This product was previously known as Aspen Distribution Planning Optimizer (DPO).
PSCP is a linear program support software package primarily designed for modeling transportation networks. PSCP includes specification and simple recipe (operations) capabilities, but does not include the non-linear capabilities of a program like Aspen PIMS where calculated stream properties can be used elsewhere in the model. Powerful mixed integer capabilities are designed into many of the standard PSCP tables. PSCP is not designed to be used for modeling refinery operations, but is used for modeling and optimizing the economics of crude and feed stock supply networks and refinery product distribution networks. PSCP also can be used to model very complex exchange agreements that involve different materials, different terminals and different time windows.
The objective function for a typical PSCP problem is
Objective Function = Sales Revenue + Exchange Revenue ?Purchases ?Exchange Costs ?Inventory Drawdown ?Operating Costs ?Transportation Costs?Inventory Holding?Inventory Penalties?Feasibility Penalties ?Miscellaneous Costs
As an example application: clients use PSCP to help develop an optimized daily distribution schedule for 30 days for major product groups from four refineries, using over 20 ships, 8 barges, 3 pipeline networks and 4 regional terminals and 17 local terminals. The model is designed to pick which route many of the ships take, when and which materials are loaded in each compartment. Some limitations are also included to prevent more than one ship at a pier during the same time period.
Keywords: DPO
Information on DPO
DPO for a refinery
PSCP information
References: None |
Problem Statement: When running a global model, the local reports are not generated - even if they are all selected on the Exceution Dialog Box. | Solution: Check to global model to see if the column "REPORT" is in your "MODELS" table. If you want to have a local model reported, you will need to put something such as 1 into the column for each local model. If this column isn't present, all the local models are reported.
KeyWords
report
global
MPIMS
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to create Excel Based calculations using AspenCalc? | Solution: Create a new calculation
When you get to the formula type page, select Excel.
Click the Next button. This will take you to the Excel Formula page.
If you have an existing Excel workbook, you can choose to use it, but we will be creating a new one to show you how this is done.
Click the Create New button in the Workbook frame. A new instance of Excel will open. (Notice that the workbook is shared and that the name is the same as the name of the calculation. These are prerequisites for creating a calculation using Excel.)
AspenCalc uses named cells in the Excel spreadsheet. highlight one of the cells and enter a name for the cell in the cell location box.
In our example, we are going to calculate the sum of the 3 raw material tanks (found in the InfoPlus.21 tags, ATCL101, ATCL102 and ATCL103).In addition, we have created another named cell at location A5 which we have called RawTotal and contains the sum of the 3 named cells we created earlier.
Save the workbook with an appropriate name after finishing adding the named cells and formula.
Back in the AspenCalc calculation wizard, And click the Auto Add button, AspenCalc will read the named cells in the Excel spreadsheet and display them as either inputs or outputs.
bind the inputs and/or the outputs to values
Execute the calculation and view the results in the content pane.
KeyWords
Aspen Calc
Excel
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I Download Product Patches from the Support Site? | Solution: Method 1: aspenONE Update Agent. Please click here to download and learn how to use the aspenONE Update Agent.
Method 2:
1. Login to Aspentech’s support website, https://esupport.aspentech.com/
2. From the Support menu click Product Patches
3. Use the drop-down boxes to select the Product and Version of patches and click Go. Click on an available patch.
4. Follow instructions provided in the patch description to download and install the patch.
Example:
Keywords: Product patches, software patches, download, update center, Hot Fix, Engineering Release, update, aspenONE, updates, patches, cumulative, CP, EP
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I add a constraint for minimum or maximum percent of a component in a specification blend in my Aspen PIMS model? | Solution: Table BLNSPEC can be used to specify a MIN or MAX percent of a component in a specification blend. Use the row name Ncmp or Xcmp (where cmp is a blend component as defined in table BLNMIX) to construct component volume or weight limitations for specific blends. Specification must lie in a range of 0 to 100.
*TABLE
BLNSPEC
*
Blended Product Specifications
TEXT
XXX
Ncmp
Minimum % of cmp
5
Xcmp
Maximum % of cmp
30
Where XXX is the blend tag.
The results for blend XXX can be found in the Full Solution report, under Specification Blend section.
Keywords: Blending, fraction
References: None |
Problem Statement: After adding a username and password to the Aspen Cim-IO Interface configuration it will fail to start and give error, CIMIO_MGMT_SERVER_START, Error starting server. The CimIO_MSG.log file with have the following errors.
Logged by CIMIOManager on node NODENAME:
Win32 error 1385 logging on as USERNAME for server Cim-IO for OPC
Logged by CIMIOManager on node NODENAME:
CIMIO_MGMT_SERVER_LOGON, Error logging on as another user
WNT Error=1385 Logon failure: the user has not been granted the requested logon type at this computer. | Solution: The error indicates the user does not have the “Log on as a service” right which is required for starting a Cim-IO Interface via the CimIO Manager service. Adding the policy will resolve the error.
GoTo Local Security Policy
Expand Local Policy
Click on User Right Assignment
Scroll down to the policy “Log on as a service”
R click and select Properties
Add the user to the list of users that have this policy
Click OK
KeyWords:
Cim-IO
cimio
cimio for opc
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I mount an aspenONE Media ISO File? | Solution: Note: to order a digital download, please place an order through the support site, and select "Download" under "Media Type."
Software V8.8 & below: aspenONE Media download links will are provided in ISO format. “ISO Mounting” will have your computer treat ISO files as though it is a DVD. This allows you to properly install the software found in the ISO file.
Software V9.0 & above: aspenONE media download links are provided in ZIP format.
Important - You can use the tools that support ISO Mounting to use the ISO, such as MagicDisc. If you are using Windows 8 or higher, you do not need a third-party tool to mount an ISO. For these instructions we will use MagicDisc as the ISO mounting software.
Using "aspenONE.ISO" as an example file:
1. Go to the folder where you stored aspenONE.ISO, highlight the file, right-mouse-click and select MagicDisc | Mount aspenONE.ISO | E:\ No Media.
2. If you have auto-run enabled, a pop-up will prompt you to run the installer.
Keywords: MagicDisc
ISO
ESD
Mount
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the platform specifications for the aspenONE suite? | Solution: Our platform support information is available at this site: http://www.aspentech.com/platform-support/.
When you access this site, you’ll see a summary of our platform support guidance, a link to the Platform Support Strategy & Plans, as well as links for each release. The list of products is grouped in a manner such as:
Engineering
Manufacturing & Supply Chain:
Advanced Process Control (APC)
Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
Petroleum Supply Chain (PSC)
Supply Chain Management (SCM)
Asset Performance Management (APM)
Additional Products & Utilities
Keywords: aspenONE
Hardware
Software
Requirements
References: None |
Problem Statement: The Aspen Cim-IO Manager Service fails to start. The following error may occur.
"Error 1075. The dependency service does not exists or has been marked for deletion." | Solution: Remove then add the service use the following commands:
To remove the service use: %CIMIOROOT%\code\cimiomanager -remove
To add the service use: %CIMIOROOT%\code\cimiomanager -install
In some cases this has not resolved the problem and another way to resolve the problem would be to remove the service, restart the server and then install the Aspen Cim-IO Manager Service using the commands above.
Keywords: 1075
Cim-IO
Manager
Service
References: None |
Problem Statement: Internet Explorer displays one of the following errors:
In Version 2006.5 and earlier:
Web.21 Application Data is corrupted (error: -2147024883) Persist information will be reset.
In V7.1 or later:
or
Error Unable to show plot page. Persistence files in UserData may be corrupted | Solution: To fix the problem:
1. On the effected client PC, go to the directory \Documents and Settings\<username>\UserData
2. Delete the file index.dat
3. Restart IE browser
If the above doesn't resolve the issue, please delete the entire Username directory and let Windows rebuild it next time user logs on to the computer.
KeyWords:
store files
cookies
persistence
user data
profile settings
Waiting - Cookie/Lang Mgr not ready
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are additional methods of clearing cached versions of Aspen IP.21 Process Browser files besides restarting IIS Admin Service and deleting preserved files and Browsing History in Internet Options? | Solution: Sometimes deleting browsing history from Microsoft Internet Explorer options and restarting the IIS Admin Service is not able to clear the cached version of files that have been updated in the C:\inetpub\wwwroot\AspenTech\Web21 directory. This situation could happen after customizing files in the C:\inetpub\wwwroot\AspenTech\Web21 directory, or even after installing a patch for Aspen IP.21 Process Browser.
This is a screenshot of deleting the Browsing History from Internet Explorer options.
Instead of deleting Browsing History, select the Browsing History Settings button. Next, click on the "View files" button, and remove all of the Temporary Internet Files. This will remove the older versions of files that have been stored in the Internet Explorer cache. After reopening the Aspen IP.21 Process Browser page, all cached files will be updated with the newest versions.
Keywords: Temporary internet files
cache
Web21
browsing history
delete
iisreset
IIS admin service
References: None |
Problem Statement: Two systems, System A and System B.
On 'SYSTEM A' trying to do a trend in Aspen InfoPlus.21 Process Browser (Web.21) from a tag on Aspen InfoPlus.21 database on 'SYSTEM B' gives a message:
IP.21 is not currently no running on ‘SYSTEM B' or is not accessible from 'SYSTEM A'
Running Aspen Process Explorer on 'SYSTEM A' plots the same tag from the Aspen InfoPlus.21 database on 'SYSTEM B' with no problems. | Solution: To troubleshoot this problem, turn on Data Server logging in the ProcessDataAdministrator (PD) program on the client machine, 'SYSTEM B', C:\Program Files (x86)\AspenTech\ProcessData ,
try to trend a tag in the IP.21 Browser plot and review the PD log files, which may show connection errors such as this one: "Connection Failure is Fatal."
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.582 IPersistPropertyBag::Load: Method - Start
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.592 Machine Name: ( SYSTEM B )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.592 Machine Name: ( SYSTEM B.Aspentech.com )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.592 Machine Name: ( 142.152.4.149 )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.593 DaLookupAlias( SYSTEM A )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.593 DaLookupAlias( 0 )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:30.593 DaAddServer( SYSTEM A 200 /alias=SYSTEM A /fatal )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.074 DaAddServer - Index( 0 )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.075 DaAddServer - ERRCODE( -1014 )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.075 DaAddServer( SYSTEM A 200 /alias=SYSTEM A /fatal ): Connection Failure is Fatal.
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.075 Machine Name: ( SYSTEM B )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.076 Machine Name: ( SYSTEM B.Aspentech.com )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.076 Machine Name: ( 142.152.4.149 )
(52588) 11/20/2013 14:31:31.076 IPersistPropertyBag::Load: Method - End (S_OK)
The Web based trends are serviced on the Aspen InfoPlus.21 system by a task called TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER; if the task is not running or not responding the web based trends will not work as expected.
Check your Aspen InfoPlus.21 Manager to verify that the TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER is running. If it's running, then check if the task is responsive.
To do so, on ‘SYSTEM B' (client machine) run the program called RPCINFO, located in C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\AspenTech Shared\Portmapper folder, and select the option Info -> Portmap Dump. This will show the different servers running on the system.
If the results list does not contain a line for program version 5, which is the designated one for the TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER task, this indicates that the process is not responding to client calls.
Restart the TSK_DEFAULT_SERVER task and RPCINFO Portmap Dump and verify that the program version 5 appears in the results list.
After this you should be able to trend tags from 'SYSTEM B' correctly on 'SYSTEM A'.
Keywords: running, accessible, connection failure is fatal
References: None |
Problem Statement: AspenTech Knowledge Base article 119360 (referenced above) describes how to hide the Header/Menu or side Navigation Menu in Aspen Web.21 graphics pages. However, that still leaves the Graphic | Help submenu on the Web.21 Graphics Page.
This Knowledge Base article shows how to hide the Graphic | Help submenu. | Solution: The graphic URL that will hide the Graphic | Help submenu should be:
http://localhost/Web21/graphics.asp?ModelName=AspenDemo.Preflash&ShowHeader=no&UseMenu=no&submenu=no
The "submenu=no" part requires that a couple of files be installed on your Web.21 server. Attached please find a zip file, which contains two files: graphics.asp and HeaderInc_Customer.htm.
To install the files, just rename the original graphics.asp file and copy the attached one over. The other file, called "HeaderInc_Customer.htm", is a new file which should be copied to the
C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\AspenTech\Web21\Include
folder.
Keywords:
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are the steps for deleting, recreating and regenerating a control system using MPF Manage? Note this is only to resolve issues of a corrupted MPF region in the ACO platform (DMCplus and IQ applications) and not applicable for RTE platform (DMC3 Builder). | Solution: This is a short procedure to delete a control system and recreate and regenerate it using MPF Manage. Users of this procedure are typically familiar with the ACOD logicals and the directory structure. This short procedure serves as a basic reminder to the steps to be taken to accomplish the task of using MPF Manage to perform this activity.
1. Run ACOD_SHUTDOWN to stop all ACO applications.
On an NT - Run Shutdown DMCplus from drop down list under Programs\AspenTech\MFG Suite - Advanced Control\DMCplus Online. (On other platforms go to ACODHOME:[BIN] or $ACODHOME/bin directory and run acod_shutdown.)
Newer versions refer to this procedure as ACOBase Shutdown and ACOBase Startup and is available from the Start Menu / AspenTech / Aspen Manufacturing Suite. If using V7.2 and V7.3, you will find this in APCManage > Tools.
2. Delete contents of the MPF directory by deleting all files in the directory: %ACODHOME%\sys\mpf
Note: In the event a message is generated "Cannot delete, locked by another user" for the mpf_dir file, rename the file. Renaming the file will allow you to move it to another location. You can then empty the directory and recreate the MPF region.
Alternatively, you can set the "ACO Utility Server" service to "Manual" or "Disabled" and reboot. This will prevent the ACO Utility Server from starting on boot, and should free up the locked MPF files as well. If you use this method, don't forget to set the service back to "Automatic" after deleting the files and/or finishing this procedure.
3. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run the following commands in bold:
MPF_MANAGE create nn
Where nn is the number of controllers plus the number of IQs plus the number of smartstep
testers, all multiplied by two: nn = 2 * (#DMC + #IQ + #SS)
The default during installation is 60. It's probably a good idea to make this number
at least twice as large as you think you'll need.
MPF_MANAGE msgcreate 2000
This sizes the in-memory messages queue; 2000 is a good number to use for this
Manage -s xx (for versions prior to V2006.5) OR DMCPManage -s xx (for V2006.5 to V7.3)
Where xx = # of DMCplus controllers
IQ_Manage -s yy
Where yy = # of Aspen IQ applications
SmartStep_Manage -s zz
Where zz = # of smartstep testers
Note: for the "manage", "IQ_Manage" and "SmartStep_Manage" steps, these are not needed unless you are utilizing that product, i.e. if you are only using DMCplus, then you don't need to (and maybe can't) run IQ_Manage or SmartStep_Manage. For whatever products you have, the total of xx+yy+zz should add up to the <nn> in the first (MPF_Manage Create nn) step.
Also Note: In version 2006.5, the DMCplus and SmartStep applications were combined, so there is no need to run the SmartStep_Manage command, only the Manage command for DMCplus.
Keywords: : MPF, corrupt, recreate, regenerate, ACO
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I configure the Recycle block for Backward transfer of a variable? | Solution: The default configuration of the Recycle block is set to run in Forward transfer mode. In this mode the Recycle block transfers variables from the inlet stream to the outlet stream. The transfer direction in this block can be set as Backward. In Backward transfer mode the selected variable(s) can be transferred from the product to the feed stream. The following steps illustrate how this can be achieved.
- Open the attached case HYSYS case "RECY1-F.hsc"
- Set the parameter of Mixer 1 “Equalize All”
- Delete the pressure of stream RECY 1 Out. Check that this pressure is calculated by Mixer 1
- Open RCY-1 and change the Transfer Direction for pressure Backwards
- Now change the pressure of “LD1 Out” from 1725 to 1800 kPa.
You will see that pressure in "LD1 Out" is set by the REY-1 as 1725 kPa. The Backwards transfer mode transfers the pressure from the outlet to the inlet stream.
You can try changing the pressure of the "Feed" stream. You will see that the pressure of "LD1 Out" will be updated as you change the pressure of the "Feed" stream.
Note: When you transfer a variable in Backward make sure to have an initial value of that variable in the inlet stream. When the value changes in the outlet stream the inlet stream will be updated accordingly.
Keywords: Recycle Block, Backward Transfer
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do I increase the display accuracy in Aspen Flare System Analyzer? | Solution: The user can increase or change the display accuracy (decimal points) of data in Aspen Flare System Analyzer. This can be done via File/Preferences. From the Preference Editor select Formatting tab and then click on "Edit Variable Formats"
This will display Variable Formats Dialog window where the user can select the object and the specific variable associated with that object. For example, Mass Flow format in the source can be changed from object called "SourceData".
Keywords: Decimal Point, Formatting
References: None |
Problem Statement: Upgrade to versions V8.0-V9.0 fails if using non-default location on 64bit OS, because the ASPENROOT64 registry key that is needed is missing. | Solution: Workaround: Create ASPENROOT64 key manually before upgrading.
Steps:
Open registry table by typing regedit in Command Prompt.
Create registry key ASPENROOT64(type is RES_SZ) under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\AspenTech\Setup
Set the install path value to this ASPENROOT64 key, e.g. if V8.0 was installed to C:\AspenTech\ folder, then the value should set to C:\AspenTech\ (must end with \), see picture
Launch any V8.0-V9.0 installation media to do upgrade, in the <Verify your installation> page, you can verify that the install files location shows the correct path.
Keywords: : failed upgrade, upgrade issue, non-default location, 64-bit OS
References: None |
Problem Statement: How Distributive Recursion Works in Aspen PIMS? | Solution: Distributive Recursion (DR) is a non-linear technique used in the linear programming to model nonlinearities by approximating them with linear segments and updating the LP matrix during what is called a recursion pass. In addition, distributive recursion is a mechanism by which the properties of a pool are continuously updated throughout the optimization process to match within predefined tolerances.
The attached PDF includes a detailed explanation of how Distributive Recursion works in Aspen PIMS.
Keywords: PIMS DR, Base Delta, error distribution, PGUESS, PDIST
References: None |
Problem Statement:
Aspen CIMIO interface manager shows error after launch and no new CIMIO logical device can be created, in CIMIO server. The error is "CIMIO interface manager error". The detailed error is attached. | Solution:
Aspen CIMIO interface manager uses Aspen CIMIO manager service for its start up.
Hence, the CIMIO manager service should be started successfully, to open Aspen CIMIO interface manager.
In case of the "CIMIO interface manager error", please ensure that The Aspen CIMIO manager service is started in windows services panel and running successfully.
If the service is not running, please try to start the service manually.
In this scenario, probably manually starting the service will show Error 1053 - " The service did not respond to the start or control request in a timely fashion".
There could be multiple reasons for this error. Please ensure the below:
a. <pre-Version 11) The Aspen CIMIO server is connected to license server and successfully able to acquire license.
When the Aspen CIMIO manager service is started for the first time, this service checks for valid CIMIO license. Failure to acquire the license will cause problem starting the Aspen CIMIO manager service.
b. The windows services file is available in C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
In case the windows services file is missing from the location, the Aspen CIMIO manager service will not be able to start with Error 1053.
In such scenario, the windows services file should be copied over from a working setup and an attempt to start the Aspen CIMIO manager service should be made.
Either of the above steps will help to start the Aspen CIMIO interface manager. Once the CIMIO manager service is started successfully, open Aspen CIMIO interface manager and you will be able to create the new logical device successfully.
Keywords: CIMIO interface error
Error 1053
CIMIO error
Error starting service
References: None |
Problem Statement: What are extensions? How to create it? Is there any list of the extensions in the knowledge base? | Solution: Extensions are custom objects to a simulation. The extensions can be written in any language that supports automation such as Visual Basic and C++. Currently, user's can add
Extension Unit Operations - Unit Operation calculations that appears in the simulation environment
Extension Reaction Kinetics - Reaction Kinetics expressions that appears in the reaction manager
Extension Property Packages - Physical Property calculations that appears as property package
Visual Basic provides the easiest development environment to create unit operation and kinetic reaction extensions. The Extension Property Package interface must be implemented as a custom interface, therefore C++ must be used.
The extension is represented in HYSYS by an Extension Container. This object is the gateway through which HYSYS communicates with the extension code.
The extension definition file (EDF) contains important information about the variables that the extension own, that is required by the extension's container. The EDF, which contains the definition of the extension, is created using the View Editor (C:\Program Files\AspenTech\Aspen HYSYS 2006\Viewed.exe). The ProgID and CLSID name must be entered in the EDF file in the format X.Y. Where X is ProgID and Y is CLSID. To implement an extension from Visual Basic, you must create a project (ProgID - X) containing a Class Module(CLSID - Y). This Class Module (Y) must implement whatever methods are required by the container. For example, to implement an Extension Unit Operation, user must implement an Initialize method and an Execute method, and these methods must have the same parameters as defined by the interface. The variables that the object owns and that are visible to the user, is also specified in the EDF file.
List of Extensions
Extension Name Description Solution id
54_crystallizer Crystallizer Extension Unit Op 110064
67_RealSep Real Separator (RealSep) Extension Unit Operation (created in C++) 110072
Combustor Combustor Unit Operation Extension, version 1.1 (Illustrates linking into a FORTRAN dll) 110063
CSplit Carbon Split Unit Operation 112180
Ejector302. Steam Ejector Extension Unit Op 110065
EqPlots Equilibrium Plots Extension 116293
Equilibrium1 Binary/Ternary Plot Unit Operation Extension 110066
HysysExtension.Net.zip Aspen HYSYS Extension Reaction Kinetics in Visual Basic .NET 121798
Mach Mach Number Unit Operation Extension Version 2.0 110068
Membrane Membrane Separation Unit Operation Extension 110070
MTO McCabe-Thiele Plot Unit Operation Extension 110069
multip (Inc Source) Stream Multiplier Dynamic Extension Unit Operation 111064
PropOxide Propylene Oxide Reaction Extension 110071
Virtual Stream Virtual Stream Extension Unit Operation 110889
Wellhead Well Head Extension Unit Op 110076
WellheadExtn.NET Sample example for Unit Operation Extension in Visual Basic .NET 121833
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ?s Solution id
What are the different ways in which an extension can be registered? 121302
Extension operations unit operations have vanished from PFD? 114036
How can I add an extension unit operation and connect streams via OLE? 109160
How can I draw my own diagrams or graphics on my .edf? Or, Can I have some information on FormBackgound widgets? 109159
How can I force an extension to resolve using code outside the extension? 112521
How can I interactively run an extension / Run it in Debug mode? 109151
How can I retrieve variable data from an extension unit operation, When I am outside the operation? 109139
How do I add a Component Matrix (a matrix with Component names along the row and column headers into the body of which numbers can be entered)? 109163
How do I add a single-column Matrix which lists one type of information (for example, Component names)? 109164
How do I add an extension unit operation to my PFD once I have registered it? 109065
How do I add Radio Buttons to my EDF? 109167
How do I automatically attach an existing stream to a Unit Operation Extension when it is added to the PFD? 109142
How do I automatically set the Calc Level (calculation level) of an extension? 109143
How do I change the name of an unit operation extension in the PFD? 109162
How do I create a Delete button? 109168
How do I create an 'Ignore This Unit Operation During Calculations' checkbox? 109169
How do I display results in the EDF? 109161
How do I ensure that StatusQuery updates the status of my extension when its variables are changed? 109140
How do I make a button execute code (or perform a calculation) when pressed? 109144
How do I register my HYSYS .NET extension? 114046
How do I set default values for numeric input or text boxes? 109170
How does one delete unwanted extension operations in a case where the extensions themselves are not registered? 121627
My extension unit operation doesn?t register correctly - What is wrong? 109158
PFS (Pressure Flow Solver) Functionality in Extension Unit Ops? 112205
What actions must be performed in the Initialize function of an extension? 109141
What is a 'Forget' Pass? 109157
What is the calculation sequence for an extension? 109146
What is the Container for a Kinetic Reaction Extension? 109135
What is the syntax for getting and setting values from RealFlexVariables? 108949
When using FindVariable to set an object reference to an object in the EDF, when do I use .Variable and when do I use .Variable.object? 109149
Why cant I use the Calculate or CalculateAsFluid methods to set a value as Calculated? 109187
Why does my extension not work properly when it is connected within a recycle loop? 109137
Why I am getting an error that says "Unable to Load Extension Server"? 121027
Why is my Extension Unit Operation's PFD Icon Yellow? 109154
Why is the Triggers Solve checkbox grayed out in the Objects? 109134
Why, when I start the solver does my extension go into an endless loop? 109138
Known Issues:
Unregistering .NET HYSYS extensions using HYSYS menu option will stop .NET from working properly 113595
Keywords: Extension, Extensions, Automation, OLE,
References: None |
Problem Statement: It is possible to execute Windows PowerShell scripts from Aspen SQLplus? | Solution: An Aspen SQLplus query cannot execute Windows PowerShell (PS) scripts directly. The SYSTEM statement will execute Windows cmd statements and send the results to Aspen SQLplus.
For example:
But Aspen SQLplus cannot execute PowerShell commands:
However, it is possible to run PowerShell scripts files by using methods similar to:
System 'Powershell.exe -executionpolicy remotesigned -File <PS script path>'
Or
System 'PowerShell -NoProfile - ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Command "& ''<PS script path>''"'
Where ps.ps1 is PS script file which contains just "ls" instruction.
Keywords: Power Shell
SQLplus
script
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen Calc allows accessing and binding tags from a third party OPC Server in a calculation.
This solution provides you a step by step method on how to add your OPC server and use an OPC Tag within AspenCalc Calculations | Solution: 1. Open the Aspen Data Source Administrator tool, and select either User Data Sources or Public Data sources depending on where you want to add the OPC data server.
2. In the User/Pubic Data Sources Window, click the add button, then enter a name for the new Data Source and click the Add button. In the Add Service Window, scroll down in the list and select Aspen OPC-DA. Once, selected, click OK.
3. In the Aspen OPC-DA Properties window, specify:
Host Name: Machine name or IP Address where the OPC Server is located.
OPC Server (Prog ID): Select the OPC server name from the drop-down list. You can check the “Use OPC Cache” and “Support non-standard OPC errors” Depending on your OPC server configuration. Click OK to all the window.
4. Once the OPC-DA data source is configured, the tags from the OPC-DA data source can now be bound to variables in the Calculation.
To bind a variable in a Calc Script, click on the Data binding tab -> Select the OPC Radio button -> Set the OPC DSN as the data source created for the OPC Server.
Browse to the tag to configure the OPC Item
Keywords: OPC Tag
AspenCalc
References: None |
Problem Statement: Aspen InfoPlus.21 uses TSK_DETCT task to manage failovers for Aspen CIMI-IO logical devices. The TSK_DETECT task may fail to start in certain situations.
This solution provides ideas to troubleshoot this issue | Solution: The TSK_DETECT task may fail to start if a CIM-IO transfer record does not have a value for IO_MAIN_TASK field.
To resolve this issue, make sure any records defined by IOGetDef,IOLongTagGetDef ,IOLLTagGetDef,IOPutDef,IOPutOnCOSDef and IOUnsolDef have the main task configured in IO_MAIN_TASK field even if the record itself is unusable
You can use an Aspen SQLplus query to quickly review the configuration for the record.For example:
Select Name, IO_MAIN_TASK from IOGetDef;
The IO_MAIN_TASK field needs to contain the task name for CIM-IO main task communicating with your CIM-IO interface.
The name has the format TSK_M_Devicename
Keywords: TSK_DETECT
References: None |
Problem Statement: How are initial values normalized to unity in Aspen Adsorption? | Solution: In a Bed block, initial values of all components mole fractions should be specified in Presets/Initials table. The initial values will be copied to every node when you click Initialize button in Configure Block window.
If the sum of all mole fractions doesn’t equal unity, they will be normalized to unity automatically by the program.
In this model, the value of O2 has been changed to 0.88. Though the specifications are irrational, the specified values are still copied to every node.
To make the calculation reasonable, the program will select the variable which has the maximum value and set it as Free type. This value will be changed eventually to make the sum of all mole fractions equal to unity.
The reason why the program selects the maximum value is that its relative error will be smaller.
Because of this, you should always check the initial values and make sure that they are reasonable. Otherwise the program will change them and you may get undesired results.
Keywords: Adsorption, Initial value, Normalized to unity, Bed
References: None |
Problem Statement: The message "Wait for Async" appears in the IO_LAST_STATUS field of Cim-IO GET Records. This problem may appear even if the Test API (cimio_t_api.exe) utility works properly. | Solution: This Error Message in some cases may be the result of a "Non-Optimized System" respective of How your Cim-IO GET Records have been Configured in IP.21 relative to the Honeywell DDT's they Access for Data Collection and the Frequency at which the Data Scans will be executed or triggered if/when they reach a point where all of the activations start getting triggered simultaneously.
Discussed below are 2 Methods that can be used to Enhance the Performance of the Cim-IO Interface Software in order to Avoid this Reported Error Problem.
The First Resolution Method is to Create the GET Records so that they Access Tags and Data from a Single DDT on the Honeywell side.
It should be noted that Opening DDT's in Honeywell is a time-consuming process.
If Multiple DDT's are Accessed by a Single GET Record, then a bottleneck will be created.
And as a result the System will then Timeout without Collecting Tag Data for all GET Records.
The Maximum Number of Tags on a DDT is 300.
** If help is needed to Verify or Arrange Tags in 1 or more DDT's, then you need to work with Honeywell Support Resources.
Else for changes needing to be applied to the Tag Mapping Lists defined in the IO_#TAGS Repeat Area for each Cim-IO GET Record, then for that task you can request help from AspenTech Support.
The Second Resolution Method which can be used to Improve the Data Collection Performance is to Stagger the Triggering of the GET Records.This can be achieved with a SQL Script that includes an appropriate Wait Statement, and in most cases a 4-5 second delay should be adequate. For Example, in your Script you might elect to Toggle the IO_RECORD_PROCESSING for each GET Record to OFF and then back to ON in between each Wait Statement, which will effectively stagger their activations. And as an Alternative Option you could also use instead a ScheduledActDef Record, and Set the "WAITFOR_PROCESSING_?" Field Value in the #DATA_BASE_RECORDS" Repeat Area to "YES" for all GET Record Activations.
NOTE: Using a Script to Toggle the IO_RECORD_PROCESSING to OFF and then Back ON for each GET Record with a Wait Statement in between works best for Configurations setup to use Cim-IO Store and Forward with AsynchronousRequests; whereas, the alternative use of a ScheduledActDef Record to Trigger the GET Record Updates using Scheduled Synchronous Requests works best for cases where the Store and Forward Support is Not needed or cannot be made to work.
An Example SQL Script that has been Tested and Verified to Work for the Case where the IO_RECORD_PROCESSING will be Toggled OFF and back ON for each GET Record including a Wait Statement in between the executions is provided in the KB Article whose Link is referenced below.
How do I stagger the scheduling of asynchronous get records with the same frequency evenly throughout the scanning period?
By Optimizing the Performance of the Interface, then the Timeout Problems should disappear along with the "Wait for Async" Status.
KeyWords:
DDT
CGCU
timeout
asynch
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How to configure a multi-threaded synchronous RFC call from SAP? Essentially we have a scenario where someone in SAP makes a request which triggers an RFC. This then triggers the R/3 adapter to poll a remote system and return a set of data back to the user. How would I go about making that process multi-threaded so that if user 1 makes a request, and then user 2 makes a request, user 2 does not have to wait until user 1 gets his response before getting theirs?
From reading the R/3 adapter user manual, it appears that configuring the MaxConnection field in a Server Connection, and the process definition tab in a PE deployment configuration will allow multi-threading. So in a scenario where 2 instances/threads of a process engine each send out a request (publishing using the RV subject), and a reply comes back with data (subscribing to the same subject), how will the process engine know for which instance the reply is coming back for? Is there some internal tracking mechanism between process engines?
In the R/3 adapter manual, it also states that "The outbound adapter instance is used to publish the IDocs or send out RFC/BAPI requests. The outbound configuration can service multiple requests from R/3 without waiting for the reply for the previous request to return before proceeding with the next. Transactional RFCs, being inherently sequenced by the underlying R/3 library, are handled strictly sequentially by the adapter. Transactional RFC invocations (including IDocs) from R/3 are handled sequentially by the underlying R/3 interface library. Hence all transactional RFCs are strictly sequenced by the adapter as well. Consequently, multiple threads will not contribute to enhanced performance of tRFC Request-Response Invocation services and IDoc Publication services in the adapter." How can I tell from within the designer whether an adapter service is a transactional RFC (handled sequentially) or a synchronous RFC (which can process multiple requests without waiting for reply of previous requests)? They both seem to use the Request-ResponseInvocation template. | Solution: Answer to #1
You can configure multithreading in the Adapter by setting the parameter MaxConnection. This can either be done by setting the parameter in the Server Connection or by setting the same in the adapter properties file adr3.tra which is used to start the adapter.
Answer to #2
This is handled by BW itself. There is a unique reply subject created for each request by BW in order to distinguish each request coming to it. Thus the end user need not worry about the replies getting mixed up.
Answer to #3
Yes, you can configure an RFC as tRFC. This can be done when you are downloading it from SAP. When you select an RFC for an operation, on the right side, under the column, 'Invocation Protocol', select the drop down as 'OneWay' from the default 'Request/Reply'. Thus now when you download the RFC, it will be tRFC.
Also, you can check that the RFC is downloaded as OneWay, by checking the following:
(Project Name) -> Schemas -> Classes -> ae -> (SAP Version) -> basic -> FunctionModules -> (RFC NAME) ->(RFC NAME) and then for the attribute, 'One Way' you will see it checked.
Key Words
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Sulfur recovery is a core process in both midstream and downstream oil & gas industries. In Aspen HYSYS V9, Sulsim technology (by Sulphur Experts) has been fully integrated within Aspen HYSYS. In Aspen HYSYS V9, you can configure, simulate, and optimize the Sulfur Recovery Unit (Claus Process) to recover elemental sulfur from gaseous H2S, COS, CS2, and SO2. Since these gases are harmful to the environment and can affect petroleum product quality, achieving sulfur removal targets and satisfying regulatory requirements across a range of feeds and conditions are critical for operations.
A typical gas plant configuration consists of many different processes that are configured specifically for the plant’s feed conditions and operational objectives. Global plant optimization enables a more efficient greenfield/brownfield design and enables margins to be maximized while ensuring reliability in operations.
At a high level there are two major objectives of a gas plant. The first is to maximize production of sales products with minimal product quality giveaway at minimum OPEX. This objective is facilitated through a series of processes that can include acid gas treating, dehydration, inerts removal (such as nitrogen & helium), liquids fractionation, and LNG compression. The second major objective is to meet environmental and regulatory requirements on emissions. This objective is typically facilitated with an acid gas treating step, sulfur recovery step, tail gas treating step, and an incinerator/flare. | Solution: Prior to the release of aspenONE V9, a unit engineer or design engineer would need to employ multiple simulators to ensure that a given process could meet emissions specifications across the operating window. The acid gas treating and tail gas treating processes could be rigorously simulated using Acid Gas Cleaning, but the user would need to export and import results to standalone Sulsim to optimize the sulfur recovery unit. Now in aspenONE V9, a user can optimize all of these processes in a single HYSYS environment. In other words, the Acid Gas Cleaning property package can be integrated with the Sulsim Sulfur Recovery property package in a single flowsheet environment, enabling global optimization of the process. The integration of Sulsim into Aspen HYSYS V9 enables a complete end-to-end accurate modeling solution.
Keywords: Sulfur Recovery, Claus Process, Sulsim, Sulphur Recovery, SRU, Modified-Claus Process, Challenged Feed, Sulfur, Sulphur, H2S, COS, CS2, Reaction Furnace, Catalytic Converter, Tail Gas, Flare, Incinerator, Hydrogenation Bed, Waste Heat Exchanger, Condenser, Titania, Alumina, Selective Oxidation Converter, Sub-Dewpoint, Amine, Adjust, Air Demand Analyzer, ADA, Case Study, Variable Navigator, Kinetic Value, Checker Wall
References: None |
Problem Statement: This solution provides a common formula to calculate the number of tokens you would consume. | Solution: To use one of Supply Chain Suite's case files (with .cas or .casx extension), SCM application needs to be opened first. Opening only the SCM, without opening the case file does not consume any tokens.
Whenever a case file is opened, tokens would be consumed - be it the Demo case files that's available in the C:\Users\Public\Documents\AspenTech\Aspen CAPS or the custom case file modified specifically for you. The number of tokens consumed depends on the type of application being used. The following are the applications that would consume tokens:
1. Plant Scheduler - mimips1cap
2. Plant Scheduler - Enhanced Automation - mimips2cap
3. Plant Scheduler - Enhanced Optimization - mimips3cap
4. Collaborative Demand Manager - mimidmcap
5. Supply Chain Planner - mimispcap
6. Inventory Planner - mimiipcap
7. Distribution Scheduler - mimidscap
Please refer to Solution # 136852 - to find out what application you are using. Please refer to your contract to find out how many tokens your application would consume.
The following is the formula that can be used to calculate the number of tokens you would consume:
Total No. of tokens = No. of users * No. of models *
No. of Tokens based on the application
Here are some examples:
1. Single user one model:
a. No. of users = 1
b. No. of models = 1
c. Tokens / application = t
Therefore, no. of tokens = 1 * 1 * t = t
2. Multiple users using different models:
a. No. of users = u
b. No. of models = m
c. Tokens / application = t
Therefore, no. of tokens = u * m * t = umt
Keywords: Tokens
SCM
Instances
Users
Models
References: None |
Problem Statement: As of V8.4, Aspen Collaborative Forecasting (CF) only has a 32-bit version. Whereas, Aspen Collaborative Demand Manager (CDM) (i.e. one of the applications of Aspen Supply Chain Management) has both the 32-bit and the 64-bit versions. 32-bit CDM with the 32-bit CF can be implemented on the same environment. But, the same is not recommended for the implementation of 64-bit CDM with the 32-bit CF. The following solution explains AspenTech’s recommendation for this type of implementation when using the Oracle Database. | Solution: Aspen CF depends on multiple number of third-party components like ODBC driver, JDBC driver, OLEDB driver, etc. This is particularly true when CF is installed to use the Oracle database.
In order to avoid clashes between 32-bit and 64-bit drivers, AspenTech recommends two separate environments:
The first environment should be installed with:
Aspen SCM 64-bit
Aspen SCM Applications 64-bit
Aspen CF Application Manager 32-bit
Oracle client 64-bit
The second environment should be installed with:
WebLogic Server
Aspen CF Web Application 32-bit
IIS
Oracle client 32-bit
Please refer to the Installation and Implementation guides when performing such an installation:
Aspen SCM and SCM Applications V8.4 Installation Guide:
http://support.aspentech.com/CustomerSupport/Documentation/V8_4/aspenONEV84DocDVD/Planning%20and%20Scheduling%20Chemicals/Aspen%20SCM/Aspen%20SCM_SCMAppsV8_4-Inst.pdf
Aspen CF Installation Guide: http://support.aspentech.com/CustomerSupport/Documentation/V8_4/aspenONEV84DocDVD/Planning%20and%20Scheduling%20Chemicals/Aspen%20Collaborative%20Forecasting/AspenCFV8_4-Inst.pdf
Aspen CF Implementation Guide:
http://support.aspentech.com/CustomerSupport/Documentation/V8_4/aspenONEV84DocDVD/Planning%20and%20Scheduling%20Chemicals/Aspen%20SCM/Aspen%20SCM_SCMAppsV8_4-Inst.pdf
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How can I retrieve the flow regimens from the pipe segment slug flow calculations using automation? | Solution: The flow regimen from the Slug Flow are not exposed values. The user needs to use backdoor variables to get the value. Please refer to the attached Excel case for an example of the code required to do this operation.
Keywords: Visual Basic OLE annular slug bubble stable
References: None |
Problem Statement: Webinar: Getting Started with Economic Evaluation: Overview of the User Interface and a guide for creating a new project.
Note: This is an unedited version of the meeting, and there is a six minute silent section at the beginning of the webinar before the actual presentation begins. | Solution: This Seminar was given on 22 January 2013 to the Economic Evaluation Online Community. It gives an overview of the Aspen Capital Cost Estimator User Interface and provides guidelines for creating a new project in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator.
Keywords: Webinar, Getting Started, Interface, User, User Interface
References: None |
Problem Statement: Webinar: Getting Started with Economic Evaluation: Entering Project Components | Solution: This Seminar was given on February 26 2013 to the Economic Evaluation Online Community. ?. It covered 4 different methods for entering standard Component data into the system. They are:
? Components Tab from Palette View
? Area Component Selection from Project View
? Spreadsheet View
? Spreadsheet Import
Not covered were importing components from other projects or using other Unit Cost Libraries (e.g. Richardson).
Keywords: Webinar, Getting Started, Entering Project Components, Project, Components
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why do customers need to request upgrades versus automatic shipments?
Applicable Versions
All | Solution: In the past, when a new version was available, we automatically shipped it to customers over a prolonged period with no true way to prioritize based on when a given customer needed their upgrade. The automatic shipments also led to variety of errors such as incorrect contacts due to departures and role changes, wrong addresses as well as incorrect license configuration due to infrastructure changes at the end customer site.
Other reasons why we do not usually do automatic shipments
1. Some customers have changed their IT control to prefer their internal centralized upgrade distribution with proper testing
2. Not all customers want to upgrade right away. So AspenTech can work with the customers who have the most urgent needs
Based on customer feedback we improved our Upgrade delivery process by:
1. Notifying customers of new releases via the monthly Technical Support e-Bulletin as well as by a separate new Release announcement e-mail before each aspenONE release
2. Inviting customers to complete the Upgrade Request form on the support website:
? Provides correct contact and address information for each request
? Enables customers to indicate their deployment timeline for prioritization of shipment
? Facilitates changes in license configuration due to new hardware or network configurations
3. Providing customers with expected shipment dates once their request has been submitted
4. Proactively contacting customers after each shipment as part of our Outbound Call program to confirm satisfactory delivery of the upgrades.
Keywords: Release, Upgrade, Automatic Shipment
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why am I unable to retrieve data using the Aspen Excel Add-In for records defined by IP_TextDef?
Some possible errors are:
? #ERROR 50103: Bad attribute 'VAL' (for AtGetCurrVal function calls) | Solution: One possible reason the Aspen Excel Add-In is not unable to retrieve data for records defined by IP_TextDef is that there is not a map record for IP_TextDef distributed with the Aspen InfoPlus.21 standard tag set. To create a map record, it is necessary to create and configure a record defined by AtMapDef definition record.
Please refer to Chapter 5, Map Records, in the latest Aspen InfoPlus.21 Database Developer's Manual for instructions on creating and configuring map records.
Update March 2013
A default map record, IP_TextMap has been added to IP_TextDef records in recent releases of the Aspen InfoPlus.21 product.
KeyWords:
IP_TextDef
Bad attribtue VAL
Bad
attribute
VAL
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I have a working Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE) project. I am able to evaluate it without issues, however, when I try to export it to Excel (using the Import Export to Spreadsheet feature) I get an error message stating:
"No Usertag found. Installation bulks will not be exported"
All my components have their corresponding UserTags | Solution: In ACCE V7.3 and previous versions, it is possible to include duplicate lines and loop numbers for the installation bulks of a given component. So, as an example, you can have several lines with "Line number" = 10. When evaluating that component ACCE would just report all different lines under "Line 10".
This however causes a problem in the new Excel Import/Export procedure, leading to the mentioned error message.
To solve the problem, you need to avoid duplicate line and loop numbers.
Also, starting with V8.0, ACCE no longer allows for duplicate numbers in installation loops to avoid inconsistencies. .
Keywords: Export procedure plant bulks version
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes how to convert a 32 bit Aspen SCM model to work in the 64-bit version 8 Aspen SCM application. | Solution: In 32-bit versions of Aspen SCM, models are stored with .cas extension, while the 64-bit version of the application stores models in .casx format. To convert a .cas file to .casx file format use the `64-bit Case Format Conversion Utility? available in:
Start | All Programs | AspenTech | Aspen Supply Chain Suite | Aspen SCM Utilities.
Important: Ensure you have a backup of your case file before converting it to 64-bit format.
Once you open the application, enter the .cas filename along with its path, at the prompt and press enter. The utility will convert the application and will produce the .casx version of the same file at the same location, as the original .cas file.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Different products of Aspen SCM consume different amounts of tokens. The following solution explains how to find out which product your case is configured to use. | Solution: In V7.3 and earlier versions, you would be able to find out the name of the product you are using by looking at the title.
Starting V8, there is only one title bar for Aspen SCM. To find out the product you are using, please look into the APPDATA table. To bring this table up, hit F3 on your keyboard, type APPDATA and hit Enter. There should be a row called PROCNAME (Process Name assigned at $LOAD$). Based on the value of this row, the product you are using can be adjudged:
a. PSCAP - Plant Scheduler
b. DMCAP - Collaborative Demand Manager
c. SPCAP - Supply Planner
d. IPCAP - Inventory Planner
e. DSCAP - Distribution Scheduler
If you are using PSCAP, you might also be interested in finding out the tier used, since each tier has different token usage. Go to the APPDATA table and find out the value in the PS_TIER (PS Tier) row:
a. PS - Plant Scheduler
b. PS-EO - Plant Scheduler Enhanced Optimization
c. PS-EA - Plant Scheduler Enhanced Automation
Please refer to your contract to find out the number of tokens used by your product.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This article is intended for modelers who have a good knowledge of XML programming (used for configuring the new Graphical User Interface). There are many areas inside XML programming where new colors have to be defined like Colors of Contextual Ribbons, Background and Foreground colors for PropertyViews Maps, Charts, etc. This solution explains how colors should be defined in these spaces. | Solution: There are three ways in which colors can be defined in XML.
One is to use the standard hexadecimal code format - as in example shown below: Colors attribute is defined for the Workflow contextual ribbon using the hex-code “#734646”.
The other method is to use the Microsoft colors defined at: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ie/aa358802(v=vs.85).aspx - as in example below: Colors attribute is defined for the Workflow contextual ribbon using the Color “AliceBlue”.
The third way is to use the standard MIMI colors defined in SCOLOR set - as in example below: Colors attribute is defined for the Workflow contextual ribbon using the Color “#D97”.
Keywords: Colors
XML
Hex-code
SCOLOR
Microsoft
References: None |
Problem Statement: Examples of Data Viewer screens include the Data Management | Demand Data | Demand screen in Plant Scheduler, and the Planning | Demand Forecast Analysis | Forecast Analysis | Forecast Error Statistics screen in Demand Manager.
When you filter on a column in a Data Viewer screen and then click the upper left cell in the data grid, you select the entire screen's contents (that is, the filtered data).
If you then right-click in the screen to select its contents and paste them into an Excel spreadsheet, all data from the screen is added rather than only the filtered data. | Solution: 1. Filter on a column in a Data Viewer screen.
2. Select the first row in the screen, and then drag down to select all filtered rows.
3. Right-click the screen and copy the selected content.
4. In an Excel spreadsheet, paste this content.
Result: Only the filtered data is added.
Keywords: Data Viewer
Filtering
References: None |
Problem Statement: By default, all the Panels (View Settings, Properties and Advanced Filter panels) are docked to the right. This knowledge base article explains how to change this default setting. | Solution: All of the Panel's default title, location and width/height settings are controlled through the XML configuration in the CGLOBAL set (which can be brought up by typing in the Command line in the Developer Tab):
…
<!--Initialize Panel Location and Width-->
<PANELS>
<ViewSettings
Header="=LNGDLG(CGLOBAL_PNL_FMT_HEADER,@)"
InitialLocation="DockedTop"
InitialWidth="250"/>
<Properties
Header="=LNGDLG(CGLOBAL_PNL_PROP_HEADER,@)"
InitialLocation="DockedBottom"
InitialWidth="250"/>
<AdvancedFilter
Header="=LNGDLG(CGLOBAL_PNL_ADVFLT_HEADER,@)"
InitialLocation="DockedBottom"
InitialWidth="250"/>
</PANELS>
…
For changing the header, all you have to do is replace the LNGDLG(…) (which is a language table where different languages for the same title are maintained, so that SCM can be converted as required) mentioned in the Header attribute for the corresponding Panel with the required title.
For changing the location, change the value of the InitialLocation attribute to:
a. DockedLeft - to open the panel as docked to the left
b. DockedTop - to open the panel as docked to the to the top
c. DockedBottom - to open the panel as docked to the bottom
d. Floating - to open the panel as a floating window instead of docking
e. TabbedDocument - to open the panel as another tab to the existing window
For changing the width / height, change the value of the InitialWidth / InitialHeight attribute to the required number in Pixels.
Once you have made the changes, please right click and choose Apply. This will save the changes. Now go to the command line and run: <$LOAD$. This will modify the application according to the changes you made.
The attached case file shows an example where the View Settings panel has been docked to the top:
Please note that these changes are only required to change the default settings of the Panels. If it is going to be one-time change that you want to accomplish, then it can be done by right clicking on the panel header and choosing the relevant option or dragging the panel to the relevant position.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When you create a new screen in version 7.3.1 or in version 8, you have to create new XML sets/tables. When doing so, you might have the question: Should the root VIEW element in XML sets/tables be in upper-case? | Solution: The root VIEW element must be in upper-case. You will only see a blank screen if you use lower-case names. But the SHOWSCRN command, which is used to call the XML screens, is not case-sensitive.
CORRECT DECLARATION:
WRONG DECLARATION:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: PD_Server crashes when executing the command line procedure, e21_chg_keys. | Solution: The syntax for e21_chg_keys command is as follow: (Event.21 User''s Manual pg. 5-5)
e21_chg_keys area=area key=value [key=value...] [date=date] [time=time]
Even though date and time is shown as optional (referenced by the brackets), a date and time must be specified for it to work.
Below is an example query with date and time:
system ''%e21%\bin\e21_chg_keys area=REACTOR1 batch=1 prodnum=ABC date=12/14/00 time=12:00:00'';
KeyWords:
e21_chg_keys
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When writing a rule, what are the advantages of using the CHOOSE command over the SELECT command?
Let?s consider this example:
If you have to select rows which has positive values in the 1st column of this table, then using the CHOOSE query over the SELECT command is the better option. | Solution: Executing this rule will put your result in TCHOSEN table:
_RULE11
IF SELECT _TABLE(*,1) > 0
AND TCHOSENC = NULL
AND TCHOSENC = _TABLEC
AND TCHOSEN = _TABLE MATCH
THEN DEMO_END
You can execute the same action using this Rule:
_RULE12
IF CHOOSE _CHO(CHO1)
THEN DEMO_2_END
Where _CHO is a set containing the Choose query CHO1:
CHO1
INTO TCHOSEN
FROM _TABLE
WHERE _TABLE(@,1) > 0
END
Syntax for CHOOSE Command:
When a CHOOSE command is called, it should follow this syntax:
CHOOSE control_set(query_name) [arg1] [arg2]?
Where:
control_set Name of set containing query
query_name Name of query you want to invoke, as defined in Code of control set
arg1, arg2 etc. Values to be substituted for %Variables in query as it executes
CHOOSE Set
Keywords: When a CHOOSE set is written, it can have the following keywords:
Query name (required): Marks beginning of query
INTO (optional): Specifies table or sets to place selected data
FROM (required): Specifies source set or table
INDEX (optional):
References: s row or column of table containing set indices or set Codes; Sets
internal index to specified entry as CHOOSE loops through set or table
ATTEXP (optional): Performs attribute expansion for all listed attribute sets
WHERE (required): Specifies criteria for selecting data from source set or table
END (required): Marks end of query
Advantages of using CHOOSE Query:
1. Multiple criteria selection with logical AND and OR can be used.
2. There is also the ability to loop over PRO set whereas the query may reference tables dimensioned by FAM; this is accomplished by virtue that FAM is related to PRO through PROTYPE.
3. SELECT command can only transfer entries into TCHOSEN table; additional rules need to be used to transfer it in to other tables. CHOOSE query provides the flexibility to insert in any table directly.
4. The CHOOSE query is also faster.
5. Arguments can be passed to CHOOSE queries similar to Rules.
6. CHOOSE command?s syntax follows SQL conventions, which many users may already be familiar with.
Please use the `SCM Technical Help? available in the File Menu for additional information on CHOOSE queries. |
Problem Statement: I want to control the colors of the Planning Board in Aspen SCM, but the Aspen SCM Help System topic on Planning Board Colors does not fully describe what are the valid entries for SSYSC, which control the types of Planning Board system colors. How doA determine which are valid entries? | Solution: Planning Board colors are defined by two sets and two tables, the SCOLOR and SSYSC sets, and the SYSCOL and PCOLOR tables. The SSYSC set controls the types of Planning Board colors and the SYSCOL table assigns colors defined in SCOLOR to each of the types listed in SSYSC. PCOLOR determines the color, defined in SCOLOR, used for a given product in the Planning Board.
In defining the types of Planning Board system colors, SSYSC only takes seven entries. The valid entries for SSYSC are:
Window Background Color
Main Background Color
Border Color
Shadow Color
Label Color
Error message Color
Message Color
If SSYSC does not exist, Aspen SCM will create SSYSC and fill in the first five entries above.
KeyWords:
Planning Board, system colors, SSYSC, SYSCOL
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article discusses whether the keyword 'Value' or 'ValueSource' should be used to extract values from a Table.
To read this KB a prior understanding of XML coding in Aspen Supply Chain Management is required. | Solution: The keyword 'ValueSource' should be used to obtain data from a table instead of the keyword 'Value'.
For example: There is a screen which displays time and date of the last time you pressed the command button, which is also displayed in that screen:
The code of this screen should look like:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<CONFIG>
<USER
Header="Test Screen"
ViewModelID=":USER_VM">
<Views>
<GRID
Type="LayoutGrid"
Rows="auto,auto,auto"
Columns="150">
<Views>
<ROW1
Type="PropertyView"
Row="0"
DataSource="Label1"
Margin="20,20,20,20"
Editor="Label"/>
<ROW2
Type="PropertyView"
Row="1"
DataSource="Label2"
Margin="20,20,20,20"
Editor="Label"/>
<ROW3
Type="PropertyView"
Row="2"
Margin="20,20,20,20"
DataSource="Button1"/>
</Views>
</GRID>
</Views>
</USER>
<USER_VM>
<States>
<Default>
<Properties>
<Label1
Type="String"
Value="Last Updated:"/>
<Label2
Type="String"
Value="=_LAST(1,1)"/>
<Button1
Type="Command"
Caption="Update"
After=">_RTEST"/>
</Properties>
</Default>
</States>
</USER_VM>
</CONFIG>
In the View Model section - Label2: The intent is to read the value located in Row 1 and Column 1 of the table _LAST. Using the above syntax will successfully read the value from this table, as per intention. But if you try to update the date and time by pressing the command button, the values do not get updated.
In these cases and for every case where a value needs to be read from a table, the 'ValueSource' keyword should be used.
The syntax to be used is:
ValueSource="Table_Name(Row,Column)"
Hence the code change required in this case is:
ValueSource="_LAST(1,1)"/>
This change will make this screen work as per intention.
For your information, the rule _RTEST, used in this XML is coded as:
IF ?A = &DATE
AND ?B = &TIME
AND ?C = '?A ?B'
AND _LAST(1,1) = ?C
THEN UPDATED_SUCCESS
The table _LAST is a character table and should look like:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: When setting up Event.21 (and DBC.21) for the first time, users often encounter problems and errors even though they followed the setup procedures dutifully. The reason for this is that certain InfoPlus.21 tasks required by Event.21/DBC.21 to run are, by default, configured to be skipped on startup when IP.21 is first installed.
Below please find troubleshooting steps for a particular error. However, the same troubleshooting process can be followed when some other connection related error messages are received as well. | Solution: Here are the steps to troubleshoot error "cannot get shared memory id queue: c21_get_ipcid ERROR n21_thread_open failed; error 7" in the pd_server .out file.
-- please make sure that TSK_N21_ROUTER, TSK_N21_TIMER, and TSK_N21_SOCKET_M have 'External task' box checked and the 'Skip during startup' box UNchecked
-- make sure that the following tasks have the 'External task' and 'Skip during startup' boxes UNchecked: TSK_E21_INIT, TSK_E21_QINIT
-- make sure that TSK_E21_QNETBUF and TSK_PD_SERVER have 'External task' box checked and the 'Skip during startup' box UNchecked
-- use the pd_server file specific to the desired relational database and select the appropriate pd_server.exe file; the executable that task TSK_PD_SERVER should use with Oracle DBMS is pd_server.odbc.exe
NOTE: The executable that task TSK_PD_SERVER should use with MS SQL Server is pd_server.msql.exe found in the [drive letter]:\Program Files\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\c21\k21\bin directory.
-- verify that the Aspentech SQLPlus driver is in the ODBC Control Panel
-- create a System DSN in your ODBC Control panel in Windows for your Oracle RDB and name it Aspen
-- verify that your ADSA data source does include the connection information for the Event.21 server components. To see if this is the case, do the following:
1. Look at Start | Programs | Aspentech | Common Utilities | ADSA Client Config Tool
2. Is the checkbox for "Use Public Data Sources" checked? If so, click the button for Public Data Sources; if not click the button for User Data Sources.
3. Highlight the Data Source name (probably only one) you are using to connect with.
4. Click Edit.
5. Review the components for the Data Source name. If there is not a component named "Aspen Process Data Events (IP.21)" then click Add, and select that component.
6. Click "Apply" or "OK" as appropriate to exit all the way out of the ADSA environment.
7. Stop and Start the Aspen Data Source Directory Service to make sure it is refreshed with the latest connection information.
At this point, try to connect via Process Explorer again.
If the above suggestions don't solve the problem then please review Knowledge Base Articles 101279 and 101653.
KeyWords:
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes whether or not the Aspen Event.21 plot control is supported for use within a web page. | Solution: The Aspen Event.21 plot control is supported for use within a custom Visual Basic program. However, the Aspen Event.21 plot control is not supported for use within a web page. The only controls supported for use within a web page are the controls which are supported for use within Aspen Web.21.
Keywords: IIS
webpage
AtEventPlots.ocx
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is there a method to debug macros that is similar to the rule tracing feature of the Expert System in Aspen SCM? | Solution: The macro trace feature is used primarily for macro debugging, displaying line by line results of macro execution. The macro trace includes:
A? Elapsed time
A? Status of commands issued from macros
A? Parameters passed to macros or rules
A? Rule names for Aspen SCM commands executed inside rules
A? Results of any Expert System rules called from macros, if rule tracing has been enabled
The MTRACE command turns the macro trace on and off.
By default, macro trace results appear in the $MTRACE table, but results can be sent to external file. To write macro trace results to an external file, create an entry in the SYSTEM set as follows:
Code:
MTRACE
Description:
Desired file name, including full path
If the file does not exist, Aspen SCM creates the file when you execute the macro, and places the file in the same directory as the current case.
Important: To view the macro trace results in the external file, the external file must be closed. You can close the file by exiting Aspen SCM or executing the MTRACE OFF command.
KeyWords
macro, tracing, macro tracing, MTRACE, $MTRACE
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: How do you include the Aspen Event.21 application in the Aspen Framework security? | Solution: Event.21 tracks manufacturing events significant to the history of a process. Alarms, operator actions, and batch transitions are examples of typical events.
Event.21 allows users to record Batch data and comments in an external database. This is done through a plot of type Event in Process Explorer; in it you create the events that will be saved in the external database.
To be able to secure who can create/edit these events you have to restrict who can create and save plots in Process Explorer, and this will include Event.21 plots. See KB 119260 (Which Aspen Manufacturing Suite applications can be imported into AFW Security, and where are their xml files?) for information on how to set this up.
There?s no separate way to secure the creation of plots by plot type, such as Standard, Batch, Event, SPC, etc. Once you secure who can create plots in Aspen Process Explorer plots of type Event are included in it.
Keywords: Event.21
plot
security
AFW
References: None |
Problem Statement: I wish to use the Event.21 API but I cannot find any information on the Support website or help files, where can I find information regarding this feature? | Solution: During the installation of Aspen Process Explorer information is installed on the machine in the following location:
C:\Program Files\AspenTech\APEx\Samples\EventPlots\API
There is a Read Me file provided called Event21API_ReadMe.htm and folders containing the required files under Components:
AtEvent21ApplicationInterface.dll, e21_client.dll, event21_api.dll
Follow the instructions contained in the Read Me file for installation and usage and there are samples contained in the Samples folder.
Keywords: AtEvent21ApplicationInterface.dll
Event.21 API
References: None |
Problem Statement: This solution is to assist with the error message "E21 ERROR: value not defined when status entered!" within SQLPlus when using the executable e21_rec_event.exe to update the Event.21 database. | Solution: When utilising the executable e21_rec_event.exe it is important to adhere to the correct syntax within SQLPlus. The command itself requires specific IDs and Values to be used as follows:
Name: e21_rec_event
Purpose: Record an event.
Usage: e21_rec_event id=value [id=value]
Where: id = identifier to store value for
value = value, associated with id, in defined format
Example: Record an event for reactor area with severity code equal to alarm, and text as main pipe broke.
e21_rec_event area=reactor severity=alarm text='main pipe broke'
If you attempt to update the Status using this command and do not update the Value at the same time you will receive the error message:
E21 ERROR: value not defined when status entered!
To avoid this error please ensure that you are using the correct syntax with the command as follows (this is an example):
system 'C:\"Program Files"\AspenTech\InfoPlus.21\c21\e21\server\e21_rec_event area=reactor tag=ATCL101 value=0 status=123';
Keywords: Event.21
E21 ERROR
References: None |
Problem Statement: I would like to access the Event.21 API but I am unsure of the best method to do this. | Solution: The first step is to ensure that the machine on which you wish to access the Event.21 API has Event.21 installed. If not you must rerun the installer and chose to modify the installation adding Event.21 as a component.
It is now important to load all the Event.21 API components and this is best achieved by running the Register All E21 Client batch file shown here:
Once you have launched the batch file, all components and DLLs will load allowing for the Object to be loaded into SQL+ using View >
Keywords: Event.21
Event.21 API
References: s (or the reference can be added to a VB project):
To view the object go to View > Object Browser:
The Event21 Class can then be used within SQLPlus. |
Problem Statement: How can the event data for Aspen Event.21 be read using the commands provided in the AtEvent21ApplicationInterface API using a web application. | Solution: To enable access to the Event.21 data using the AtEvent21ApplicationInterface API via HTTP there is a requirement to pass credentials otherwise there will be a system hang and the connection will not be achieved.
If the account making the web front-end HTTP call to access Event.21 does not have sufficient permissions on the target machine then the connection request made from C#.NET can not be completed.
To get around this problem assign the credentials of a privileged account using Form Authentication. This means that the credentials used for the HTTP request and the thread firing the connection request are tied to the privileged account.
Keywords: AtEvent21ApplicationInterface API
Event.21
References: None |
Problem Statement: If an Event.21 plot is unable to connect to the Event.21 server, it will give an error message "Unable to connect to localhost through TCP port <port number> or HTTP port <port number>...". This could occur if a firewall between the Event.21 client and server is blocking network communication on the ports used by Event.21. It is possible to change the ports used by Event.21 with the steps listed in the solution below. | Solution: The network ports Event.21 use are configured in two locations, the Event.21 Server Configuration utility and the Event.21 service component configuration for the datasource within ADSA.
To change the port in the Event.21 Server Configuration utility:
On the Event.21 server (typically the same as the InfoPlus.21 server, open Start | Programs | AspenTech | Aspen Manufacturing Suite | Aspen InfoPlus.21 | Event.21 Configuration. This will launch the Event.21 Server Configuration utility.
Select the Networking tab on the Event.21 Server Configuration Utility. Here you make a selection to allow connections using TCP, HTTP, or both. Specify the port numbers to be used for each protocol and click the "Apply Networking Settings" button.
To change the port in the ADSA data source configuration:
On the ADSA server, open the ADSA Client Config Tool from the Start | Programs | AspenTech | Common Utilities | ADSA Client Config Tool menu. (If user data sources are used by the client rather than a public ADSA server, this must be done on the client machine.)
Select the name of the Data Source and click Edit.
Select the Aspen Event.21 Data (.Net Events) service and click Configure.
Specify the TCP and HTTP ports used in the Event.21 Server Configuration utility.
KeyWords
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Is it possible to set the default charge temperature? Are all the charge temperatures affected by the default temperature? | Solution: The default charge temperature is the ambient temperature. This can be set as follows: Go to File/Preferences... and click on Global Defaults. Scroll to General Defaults and set the Ambient Temperature to a new default value.
Some charge temperatures might not show the new default value when the project is run again. For some components, "Availability Conditions" have been set. For example for water, the available condition for the temperature has been set to 298 K. To change this value, go to Data/Pure Components..., select the component and go to the Availability Conditions. Then, enter the new temperature condition. Don't forget to click on UPDATE before going to the next component or closing the dialogue.
KeyWords
Temperature
Charge
Feed
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Event.21 help says events can be purged using the "e21_backup" command, however, this does not work. | Solution: Remove records with the same "eventid" from the COMMENT21 and EVENT21 tables.
Keywords: e21_backup
References: None |
Problem Statement: There used to be an Aspen Event.21 Application Programming Interface (API) - Is it still available for v2006.5, and how do I get a copy of it? | Solution: The API for Event.21 still exists in v2006.5, as an undocumented part of Event.21. You can find the files in the attached zip. Some instructions are contained in file "Event21API_ReadMe.htm".
Please note that, for 64 bits systems:
regasm.exe from this solution must be replaced by the one located in "C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v2.0.50727"
This has been tested with aspenONE 7.3 and Windows 2008 R2 64 bits.
Keywords: API
References: None |
Problem Statement: Customers may experience issues when attempting to install Aspen Event.21 Server with the new AspenOne v7.2 DVD | Solution: Aspen Event.21 Server has been relocated within the installation tree to be listed under Aspen InfoPlus.21.
If you wish to install this product please expand the Aspen InfoPlus.21 tree which will allow you to see the Aspen Event.21 Server component
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: The on-line HELP information provided in the Aspen Event.21 is missing the information about the relational database (RDBMS) types and versions certified to be used with the product. | Solution: These are the databases and versions supported by the Aspen Event.21 V7.1 product:
Microsoft SQL Server 2005 SP2 (Standard Edition)
Microsoft SQL Server Express 2005 SP2
Oracle 9i
Oracle 10g
Keywords: event.21 database version
References: None |
Problem Statement: This knowledge base article describes how to uninstall then re-install only the Aspen Event.21 Server subcomponent of Aspen InfoPlus.21. | Solution: 1. In Control Panel | Administrative Tools | Services stop the Aspen Event.21 service.
2. Shutdown Aspen InfoPlus.21.
3. Launch the aspenONE installer from the exact same location the aspenONE media existed during the initial installation.
4. To uninstall only the Aspen Event.21 Server without uninstalling any other Aspen InfoPlus.21 components, select the option to not install the Aspen Event.21 Server feature. The Aspen Event.21 Server feature will then be represented in the installer window by a red X.
5. Before the uninstall is performed, you will be shown exactly which components will be uninstalled. Confirm that only the Aspen Event.21 Server will be removed.
6. After the uninstall has completed reboot the server.
7. To re-install only the Aspen Event.21 Server component select the Event.21 Server option in the aspenONE installer window.
8. After selecting the Aspen Event.21 Server option you will be asked to confirm the feature to be installed. Ensure that this shows only the Aspen Event.21 Server will be installed.
9. Reboot the server after the installation is finished.
10. Upon reboot, the Aspen Event.21 service will be re-installed as shown in the DOS window below.
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: Why am I unable to generate a log file in Aspen Plate Fin Exchanger? What is it used for? | Solution: This feature only works with Aspen Shell & Tube Mechanical (available under Tools|Program Settings|Execution).
This setting creates a Log file with the same name as the EDR file:
Fig. 1 Program Settings Window screenshot
The log file will be found in the Windows default folder.
C:\Users\�username�\AppData\Local\Temp\BJACTEMP
It is always in folder BJACTEMP, where all of our temporary files reside.
We are going to use a log file created from Liquid-Liquid_AEL.edr library example for illustration purposes
The log file (attached) contains one line for each time the program visits a routine that contains the TRAC keyword. The number at the end of the line is the component number (1=shell, 38=tubes, etc.) that the program is calculating. This was originally done only for internal use to trace the program operation. It is a relatively quick way to see where the program is hung. However, if the program is in an infinite loop, the LOG file becomes gigantic since the program never stops writing out the log file. Here is the beginning of the attached log file. The first part is the subroutine name with a description.
Fig. 2 Subroutine segment screenshot
The log it is a crude tool to see where the program is in the calculation cycle. Notice that the program visits the flange section many times, e.g. component numbers 17, 18 and 19. When the program does not finish, the TRAC always stays in one component number.
It is a good idea to turn it off after usage.
Keywords: log file
References: None |
Problem Statement: Getting error when starting the BCU Administrator: The BCU data source has not been started | Solution: The recommended areas to check are:
1. In the ADSA Client Config Tool, check the Data Source to make sure it has the following services in the Configured Services box: Aspen Batch.21 Service, Aspen DA for IP.21, Aspen Process Data (IP.21), Aspen Process Subscription, and Aspen SQLPlus Service Component.
2. If the Data Source has all the service components mentioned above, make sure the Aspen Data Source Directory Service is running in the Control Panel | Services area.
3. If both Step 1 and 2 check out, verify that TSK_BCU_START is set as ?Skip During Startup? in the IP.21 Manager. Newer InfoPlus.21 systems do not include this task, because the BCU is started via a Windows Service for all supported versions. However systems that have been upgraded from earlier versions of InfoPlus.21 may still be carrying this task forward in their Defined Task list.
4. Open the BCU Server Manager utility (accessible from Start | Programs | AspenTech | Aspen Manufacturing Suite | Batch.21 | Server Tools | BCU Server Manager). Once you have the Aspen BCU Server Manager Tool open, the most important thing to check is in the area at the very bottom of this dialog box (right above the Help and Close buttons). What you want to see is "The BCU service is started". If it says otherwise (i.e. "The BCU service is stopped or not started"), then the BCU service is not running. If this is the case, then check the Aspen BCU Server Manager's "Runtime Properties" dialog area.
? check to make sure a data source is added in the "Run as data source:" area.
? check to make sure the proper username (in the form of domain\username) is correctly entered in the "Run under user account" area.
If a data source is missing in the "Run as data source:" area, then add a data source by clicking on the "Configure..." button and fill out the necessary information in the BCU Server Properties area. After the data source is added successfully, go back to the Aspen BCU Server Manager dialog box and click on the Start button under the Status area to start the BCU service up. If everything is configured properly, then you will see the message, "The BCU service is started". If not, then check the data source and username again to make sure they are correct. If everything checks out and you are still unable to start the BCU service in the Aspen BCU Server Manager tool, then contact the AspenTech Support location nearest you for further assistance.
KeyWords
TSK_BCU_START
Keywords: None
References: None |
Problem Statement: I cannot see the OK button in the relief valve editor window. What do I do? | Solution: This might happen when you have a lower resolution or small monitor, so it might look like the following:
You can try the following solutions:
1. Edit the Relief Valve through the Views tab > Inputs > Sources and then edit it directly. The changes will remain.
2. You can also try to make the resolution of the screen smaller. To do that, it depends on what Windows version do you have.
a. For Windows XP users: Try to change the screen resolution by going to the Desktop and pressing right click in the middle of it and then please choose Properties. After that a window will appear, please select Display and then check the option Low Resolution. With this, you might be able to see the whole window of the relief valve.
b. For Windows 7 or Vista users: Please go to the Desktop > Right click > Screen Resolution and make the changes to make it smaller.
Keywords: Relief valve editor
References: None |
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