An OTS uses a dynamic simulation of the process in order to generate the appropriated data to feed an emulation of the plant's control system. The elements of a typical OTS are the following:
Dynamic simulation software
Process model
Instructor interface
Control system integration software
DCS emulator
Replica of the operator station
Applications
Common applications of OTS systems are the following:
New control room operator training (e.g., start-up, shutdown, and emergency procedures)
Existing control room operator refresher training (e.g., start-up, shutdown, and emergency procedures)
Platform for advanced process control (APC) and optimization
Validating DCS control and logic checkout
Validating and improving plant operating procedures
“What if?” analysis (scenario analysis)
Engineering tool for developing and testing new control strategies