EP4348484A1

EP4348484A1 - Method for designing or configuring a process, technically functional gui, system comprising a processor unit, and computer program product

Info

Publication number: EP4348484A1
Application number: EP22740475.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Michael Bortz; Karl-Heinz Kuefer; Raoul Heese; Martin von Kurnatowski
Original assignee: Fraunhofer Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Angewandten Forschung eV
Current assignee: Fraunhofer Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Angewandten Forschung eV
Priority date: 2021-05-29
Filing date: 2022-05-29
Publication date: 2024-04-10
Also published as: CN117396874A; DE102021113938A1; WO2022254305A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method, GUI, and system for designing or configuring a chemical or technical process and to an interaction between a user and a multi-criteria optimization tool. The method has the steps of providing a value of a first design variable (xl, x2,..., xD) of the process; providing a value of a first characteristic (yl, y2,..., yK) and a value of a second characteristic (yl, y2,..., yK), wherein the values of the characteristics (yl, y2,..., yK) are formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable (xl, x2,..., xD); providing a Pareto front (10) for the two characteristics (yl, y2,..., yK); and ascertaining a deviation of the value of the first characteristic (yl, y2,..., yK) at a point (11, 12,..., 16) of the Pareto front (10) and/or ascertaining a deviation of the value of the second characteristic (yl, y2,..., yK) at the point (11, 12,..., 16) of the Pareto front (10).

Description

Method for designing or designing a process, technically functional GUI, system with a processor unit and computer program product

The invention relates to a method for designing or designing a process, in particular a process engineering or chemical process, specifically using multi-criteria optimization. The invention also relates to an interactive graphical user interface (GUI) for multi-criteria optimization of a process.

When planning chemical or process engineering processes, conflicting requirements often have to be weighed up. For example, in product development, a

Composition with high hardness and high elasticity at the same time be required. Hard components are often relatively inelastic and elastic components are often relatively soft. In order to provide a composition with reasonable hardness and elasticity, the proportions of a hard component and an elastic component can be varied, with improvement in a property (e.g. hardness of the composition) in the

As a rule, a deterioration in another property (e.g. elasticity of the composition) is caused. A compromise of the required properties can be reached by a multi-criteria optimization.

For example, in the field of chemical synthesis, there may be a trade-off between the degree of purity and the availability of a reactant. so can

Reactants with a relatively high degree of purity will only be available in a few months and reactants of the same type with a lower degree of purity will be available immediately. Several reactants of the same type can be available, whereby the reactants can differ in their degree of purity and their time of availability. A multi-criteria optimization allows a trade-off between the properties of the

reactants.

A material separation process (e.g. rectification) with high purity of the separated components and low energy consumption may also be required. A high degree of purity of a component separated from a mixture can often only be achieved by using a lot of energy.

Multi-criteria optimization is not trivial, especially when there are a large number of possibilities, for example a large number of possible components in the product development mentioned above. The planning of such a process can overwhelm a user who designs or designs (plans) the process. In the process design and in the operation of production plants is a multi-criteria

Optimization particularly challenging. A best solution can often not be clearly defined be implemented or not implemented, as a change in equipment is only possible with great effort.

US 20130088729 Al (Fu - Xerox) uses a Pareto front (Pareto Frontier) in a copier with the target direction of a color setting of a spot using an s mapping of a target point (from an N-dimensional space) onto the Pareto front.

US 20150227848 Al (Amid - Int. Business Machines) deals with a multi-criteria problem approach, however with an abstract "decision making tool". It's all about weighting and ranking.

Both sites have nothing to do with a chemical or process engineering process. Can only be weighted as a general technical background A.

The technical object of the invention is to provide a method by which a multi-criteria optimization of a process, for example a chemical or process engineering process, is made possible or improved. An interaction between a user and an optimization tool is also to be improved. i ^: ; A (first) method for designing or designing a process comprises the steps:

providing a value of a first design variable of the process;

providing a value of a first parameter and a value of a second parameter, the values of the parameters being formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable; · providing a Pareto front for the two parameters;

Determination of a deviation of the value of the first parameter from a point on the Pareto front and/or determination of a deviation of the value of the second parameter from the point on the Pareto front, cf. claim 1

The method is preferably a method for designing or designing an industrial or chemical process.

The process is, for example, a production process, a synthesis process, a separation process, a mixing process, a rectification process or a drying process.

A design variable of the process can be a physical, chemical or procedural variable. For example, the design variable is a temperature, a pressure, a degree of purity of a substance, a substance or mass flow, a heat flow, a

reflux ratio in a rectification column, a height of a rectification column, or a division ratio in a divider. The design size can at least partially define the process. There can be several, in particular at least two, preferably at least three, more preferably at least five, more preferably at least ten design sizes are provided.

A parameter (also referred to as a key performance indicator) of the process can be a quantity that characterizes the result of the process. For example, a parameter can be a throughput of a process, a degree of purity of a product of a process

Energy consumption of a process, reactant consumption of a process, equipment expenditure of a process, duration of the process or an earliest start time of a process. In general, the quality of the process can be determined by a parameter. A plurality of parameters, in particular at least three, preferably at least four, more preferably at least five, can be provided.

One or more parameters can be determined on the basis of the at least one design variable. This can be done, for example, by a calculation. There can be a mathematical, physical and/or chemical relationship between the at least one design variable and the parameters. A Pareto front is provided for the two parameters. The Pareto front can be determined within the method or the Pareto front can be selected from a large number of Pareto fronts that have already been determined.

A Pareto front (also Pareto set) is the set of all Pareto optima. Various parameters (criteria) can often be defined for a process. If, for example, a component is to be separated from a mixture of substances, a parameter for the separation process can be a purity of the separated component and another parameter can be an energy consumption of the process. An optimization of the parameters is often conflicting, i.e. a high purity of the separated component can only be achieved with a high energy consumption and a low energy consumption can only be achieved with a low purity of the separated component. An optimization of such a process is a multi-criteria optimization (also called Pareto optimization).

To understand the Pareto front, the following should be noted. A Pareto front is only a functionally related function. A Pareto front has a large number of support points. The front does not have to be understood as being continuous, but rather "functionally connected", which is why support points are shown in FIGS.

A line, for example determined by an interpolation, can be added between the interpolation points. The Pareto front can also be a projection from the n-dimensional space in which it exists, but can only be represented graphically as a projection.

The figures as examples help to understand the general statements. Reachable points on a multidimensional Pareto front can be represented optically differently. Reachable points can be displayed brightly or in contrast. Points that cannot be reached, eg a projected area, can have a different contrast or a different colour. s A deviation of the value of the first parameter from a point on the Pareto front for the two parameters can be determined. Alternatively or additionally, a deviation of the value of the first parameter from the point of the Pareto front can be determined. A point of the Pareto front can be a reference point of the Pareto front.

In this way it can be determined how large the deviation of the key figures is from an o Pareto optimum for the key figures. In other words, it can be determined how much optimization potential the process has based on the value of the at least one design variable. The values of the key figures can be influenced by specifying or changing the at least one design variable. By defining or changing the at least one design variable, the optimization potential is (at least partially or as best as possible) can be exhausted.

In the method, values of the first design variable of the process can be provided. At least two of the values may differ from each other depending on time. The values of the first theme size may include the value of the first theme size. n The point of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be specified or selected by a user. The Pareto front may include at least three, preferably at least five, more preferably at least ten points that are selectable by the user. The user can select or designate one or more of these points.

The point may be selected or determined by user interaction with a viewing device. The viewing device can be a display or a touch screen. Multiple points of the Pareto front can be displayed on the display and the user can select one or more of the points, for example by a mouse click or a touch. The user can enter a value into a field of the display device, for example via a keyboard, to select or designate one or more points of the Pareto front. A selection of points on the Pareto front may be presented on the display. From this selection, the user can choose or determine one or more points of the Pareto front.

The user can determine or change the value of the first design size. The design size value can be increased or decreased. For example, the design quantity is the temperature of a process. The design size value can be 130 °C. The user can decrease the temperature value to 120 °C or increase it to 140 °C. Likewise he can User set a value of design size. So no value of the design size can be fixed and a user sets the value for the first time. The value of the design size can be determined or changed via an input field of a display device. Likewise, the value of the design variable can be determined or changed by manipulating an operating help on the display device. The operating aid can be a slider or rotary control.

A value may be provided for the first design size and a value may be provided for a second design size. The first design variable and the second design variable can be different design variables, in particular different physical, chemical or procedural variables.

Similar to the value of the first design variable, the user can determine or change the value of the second design variable. The value of the second design size can be increased or decreased. For example, the second design dimension is the pressure of a process. The value of the second design variable can be 3.0 bar. The user can decrease the pressure value to 2.5 bar or increase it to 3.5 bar. Likewise, the user can specify a value for the second design variable. So no value of the second design size can be fixed and a user sets the value for the first time. The value of the second design variable can be determined or changed via an input field of a display device. Likewise, the value of the second design variable can be determined or changed by manipulating an operating aid on the display device. The operating help can be a slider or

be knobs.

In the method, values of the second design variable of the process can be provided. At least two of the values may differ from each other depending on time. The values of the second theme size may include the value of the second theme size.

The value of the first design size can be determined or changed, while the value of the second design size remains unchanged. Likewise, the value of the second design variable can be determined or changed, while the value of the first design variable remains unchanged. It is possible that the value of the first design variable is determined or changed and the value of the second design variable is determined or changed.

A Pareto front can be provided for the two design sizes (first design size and second design size). Alternatively, a representation of the Pareto front for the two design sizes can be provided for the two design sizes.

The Pareto front for the two design variables can be determined within the method or the Pareto front for the two design variables can be selected from a multiplicity of already determined Pareto fronts for the two design variables. Likewise the Representation of the Pareto front for the two design variables can be determined within the method or the representation of the Pareto front for the two design variables can be selected from a large number of already determined representations of Pareto fronts for the two design variables. A Pareto front for the two design sizes can be based on the Pareto front for the two

Parameters are determined or have been determined. The Pareto front for the two design metrics can be based on the Pareto front for the two metrics. A representation of the Pareto front for the two design variables may be determined or may have been determined based on the Pareto front for the two parameters. The representation of the Pareto front for the two design quantities can be based on the Pareto front for the two parameters.

A deviation of the value of the first design variable from a point on the Pareto front for the two design variables or from a point on the representation of the Pareto front for the two design variables can be determined. Alternatively or additionally, a deviation of the value of the second design variable from the point of the Pareto front for the two design variables or from the point of representation of the Pareto front for the two design variables can be determined.

The point of the Pareto front for the two design sizes or the point of representation of the Pareto front for the two design sizes can be specified or selected by a user. The Pareto front for the two design sizes or the representation of the Pareto front for the two design sizes can comprise at least three, preferably at least five, more preferably at least ten points that are selectable by the user. The user can select or designate one or more of these items.

The point of the Pareto front for the two design quantities or the point of representation of the Pareto front for the two design quantities can be determined based on the point of the Pareto front for the two parameters. The point of the Pareto front for the two design quantities or the point of representation of the Pareto front for the two design quantities can be based on the point of the Pareto front for the two parameters.

In particular, by the Pareto front for the two design sizes or by the representation of the Pareto front for the two design sizes, it can be determined how the

Values of the design variables can be changed in order to set the process towards a Pareto optimum.

It can be determined whether the deviation of the value of the first design variable from the point of the Pareto front for the two design variables is reduced by increasing or by decreasing the value of the first design variable. It can also be determined whether the deviation of the value of the first design variable to the point of the representation of the Pareto front for the two design sizes is decreased by increasing or decreasing the value of the first design size.

Alternatively or additionally, it can be determined whether the deviation of the value of the second design variable from the point of the Pareto front for the two design variables is reduced by increasing or by reducing the value of the second design variable.

It can also be determined whether the deviation of the value of the second design variable from the point of representation of the Pareto front for the two design variables is reduced by increasing or by reducing the value of the second design variable.

In other words, it can be determined how the value of the first design variable o and/or the value of the second design variable must be changed so that a

Deviation from a Pareto optimum is reduced.

The value of the first design size can be changed, for example by a user. The value of the second design variable can be changed, for example by a user. In particular, the value of the first and/or second design variable can be increased or u can be reduced.

The value of the first design variable can preferably be changed in such a way that a deviation of the value of the first parameter from the point of the Pareto front for the two parameters is reduced.

The value of the first design variable can be changed in such a way that the deviation of the value of the first parameter from the point on the Pareto front for the two parameters is reduced and/or that the deviation of the value of the second parameter from the point on the Pareto front for the two parameters is reduced is reduced. Alternatively or additionally, the value of the second design variable can be changed in such a way that the deviation of the value of the first parameter from the point on the Pareto front for the two parameters is reduced and/or that the deviation of the value of the second parameter from the point on the Pareto front for the two parameters is reduced.

The value of the first design variable and/or the value of the second design variable is preferably changed by a user.

This allows the process to be developed in the direction of a Pareto optimum. It should be noted that a process design that represents a Pareto optimum is preferred in which

In practice, however, this cannot always be implemented because, for example, existing systems cannot be completely replaced or converted without considerable effort. Even a process design that shows a relatively small (at least smaller than before a change) deviation from a Pareto optimum can have a significant technical 3 ; represent improvement. A (second) method of designing or designing a process with an interactive navigation includes the steps:

providing a value of a first design variable of the process;

Providing a value of a first parameter and a value of a second parameter (for the process), wherein the values of the two parameters (first and second

characteristic) are formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable;

providing a Pareto front for the two parameters;

Displaying a first operating aid with a first selector for the value of the first design variable, a setting or position of the selector representing the value of the design variable o;

displaying a representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters on the first help;

Moving or changing, by a user, the position of the first selector of the first operating help in the direction of the representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters, cf. u claim 11.

The process is preferably an industrial process or a chemical process.

The operating help with the selector and/or the representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be displayed on a display device.

The accessibility feature may allow the user to change the value of the design size. J The operating help can also convey the (current) value of the design size to the user.

For example, the operating help can include a bar with a slider as a selector. By changing the position of the slider on the bar, the value of the design size can be changed. By moving the slider on the bar in one direction, the value of the first design variable can be increased and by moving the slider on the bar in another direction, for example in an opposite direction

direction, the value of the second design size can be reduced.

The operating aid can be designed in such a way that a rotational position of the operating aid conveys the (current) value of the design variable to the user. The value of the design size can be changed by changing the orientation of the operating aid. For example, the value of the design size can be changed by a rotational change in the operating help or a

The operating aid selector can be increased in one direction and the value of the design size can be decreased by rotating the operating aid or the operating aid selector in another direction, in particular in an opposite direction. In general, a large number of different operating aids are possible, which allow the user to change the value of the design size.

A representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters shown on the operating help can be a marking on the operating help that is based on the Pareto front for the s two parameters or is formed based on the Pareto front for the two parameters.

The representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters on the user guide can convey to the user whether to increase or decrease the value of the design quantity in order to change the process towards a Pareto optimum. o A value for a first design size and a value for a second design size can be provided.

The first operating help with the first selector can be presented for the value of the first theme size. The pose or position of the first selector may represent the value of the first design variable. A second user guide with a second selector can be presented for the value of the second design variable. The pose or position of the second selector may represent the value of the second design variable. A representation of the Pareto front for each of the two parameters (first and second parameter) can be displayed on the first and second user help. A representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be displayed on the first operating help and a representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be displayed on the second operating help.

The user can move or change the pose or position of the first selector towards the representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters. Alternatively or additionally, the user can move or change the setting or position of the second selector in the direction of the representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters. As a result, a deviation between at least one of the parameters at the point on the Pareto front for the two parameters can be reduced.

Preferably, the attitude or position of the first selector is moved or changed in the direction of the representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters by an input from the user. Alternatively or additionally, the setting or position of the second selector can be moved or changed in the direction of the representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters by input from the user.

The user's input can be made on a display device on which the operating aid is displayed or on which the operating aids are displayed. The input of the user ; can also be done at a device that is physically or non-physically connected to the display device connected is. The input can be made by touching the display device by the user. Alternatively, the input can be made using an input device, for example a mouse or keyboard.

A first operating aid with a first selector can be displayed for the value of the first parameter s. A setting or position of the first selector may represent the value of the first parameter. A second operating aid with a second selector can be displayed for the value of the second parameter. A setting or position of the second selector may represent the value of the second parameter.

The first operating aid with the first selector for the value of the first parameter can often be designed and functional in the same or analogous manner to the first operating aid with the first selector for the value of the first design variable. The second operating aid with the second selector for the value of the second parameter can be designed in the same or analogous manner and be functional as the second operating aid with the second selector for the value of the second design variable. u A representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be found on the first

Operating help for the value of the first parameter may be or will be displayed. A representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be shown on the second operating aid for the value of the second parameter.

The user can move or change the position of the first selector for the value of the first parameter in the direction of the Pareto front representation for the two parameters. The user can move or change the position of the second selector for the value of the second parameter in the direction of the Pareto front representation for the two parameters.

The setting or position of the first selector for the value of the first parameter and/or the setting or position of the second selector for the value of the second parameter can be changed by input from the user, in particular as described above.

An operating aid with a selector can be displayed for at least a first design variable. An operating aid with a selector is preferably shown for a first design variable and for a second design variable. In this way, an operating aid with a selector can be displayed for at least one first parameter. Preference is given to a first

Parameter and for a second parameter each an operating aid with a selector is shown. A representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters can be displayed on each of the operating aids.

An interactive graphical user interface (GUI) is disclosed, in particular as ; technically functional GUI, for designing or designing a process. The process can be a technical or chemical process. A Pareto front is formed for a first parameter and a second parameter. Values of the parameters are formed based on a value of a first design variable of the process. A first operating aid with a first selector for the value of the first design size is presented. A pose or position of the first selector represents the value of the first design variable. A representation of the Pareto front for the parameters is shown on the first guide for the first design quantity.

As described above, the representation of the Pareto front for the parameters can be a marking on the operating help. o The first selector for the value of the first design variable may be actuable by a user so that the value of the first design variable is changed. The first selector for the value of the first design variable may be operable by a user in the direction of representing the Pareto front for the parameters.

The user can therefore enter or manipulate data via the GUI. The u representation of the Pareto front for the parameters supports the user in the selection of the entered data. In other words, through the representation of the Pareto front for the parameters, the user can see in which direction he has to change the value of the first design parameter in order to develop or design the process towards a Pareto optimum.

The values of the parameters (first parameter and second parameter) can be formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable of the process and a second value of a second design variable of the process.

A second user guide with a second selector can be presented for the value of the second design variable. A pose or position of the second selector may represent the value of the second design variable. A representation of the Pareto front for the parameters can be displayed on the second operating help for the second design parameter.

The second design variable value selector may be operable by a user to change the value of the second design variable. The selector for the value of the second design variable can be directed towards the representation of the Pareto front for the

Parameters can be actuated by a user.

A first operating aid with a first selector can be displayed for the value of the first parameter. A setting or position of the first selector may represent the value of the first parameter. A representation of the Pareto front for the parameters can be displayed on the first operating help for the first parameter. The first selector may be operable by a user.

A second operating aid with a second selector can be displayed for the value of the second parameter. A setting or position of the second selector may represent the s value of the second parameter. A representation of the Pareto Front for the

Parameters can be displayed on the second operating help for the second parameter. The selector may be operable by a user.

The Pareto front or a representation of the Pareto front can be shown. A point of the Pareto front or a point of the representation of the Pareto front can be selectable by a user. The representation can be found on the respective operating help

based on the point of the Pareto front.

In general, the GUI can be displayed on a display device. The viewing device can be a display or a touch screen. The user can communicate with the GUI via the display device, for example entering or changing a value, or the user can communicate with the GUI via a device that communicates with the display device.

A (third) method of designing or designing a process includes the steps:

providing values of a design variable of the process, at least two of the values differing from one another as a function of time;

Providing a value of a first parameter and a value of a second parameter, the values of the parameters being based on the values of the first

design size are formed;

providing a Pareto front for the two parameters; and determining a deviation of the value of the first parameter from the Pareto front and/or determining a deviation of the value of the second parameter from the Pareto front, cf. claim 28. ss The process is preferably designed as a process engineering process or as a chemical process.

Values of the design size may be fixed depending on time. For example, in a batch process, a design variable can have different values at different times. Such a process can include a start-up period s, in which, for example, the temperature in a reactor is increased. However, other design variables can have different values at different points in time. In the production of special chemicals or special pharmaceuticals in particular, only small quantities are regularly produced in one production process. The process can be an unsteady or transient 3S process. At least five, preferably at least ten, more preferably at least 25, more preferably at least 50 values can be provided for the first design variable. At least two, preferably at least 20% or at least 50%, of the values can differ from one another as a function of time. s The values can be determined by a mathematical function.

In the method, a deviation of the value of the first parameter from a point on the Pareto front can be determined. Alternatively or additionally, a deviation of the value of the second parameter from the point of the Pareto front can be determined.

At least one of the values of the design size can be determined or changed by a user.

A trajectory for the design variable can be determined on the basis of the Pareto front for the two parameters. Values of at least two points on the trajectory may differ from each other depending on time.

A curvature of a gradient can be changed by the values of the design size. i ^: ; The curvature of the gradient is preferred by the values of the design size of one

user changed.

At least values for the first design variable can be provided and values for at least a second design variable can be provided. At least two of the values for the first design item may differ from each other over time, and at least two of the values for the second design item may differ from each other over time.

The method may be performed analogously or identically to any method disclosed herein. In particular, the method can include any method step disclosed herein. io A (fourth) method of designing or designing a process with an interactive

Navigation includes the steps:

providing values of a design variable of the process;

providing a value of a first parameter and a value of a second parameter, the values of the parameters being formed on the basis of the values of the design variable io;

providing a Pareto front for the two parameters (first parameter and second parameter); presenting an operating aid with at least two selectors for the values of the design variable, wherein a setting or position of the selectors specifies or reflects the values of the design variable;

displaying a representation of the Pareto front for the two parameters; and moving or s changing, by a user, the position of at least one of the selectors of the

operating help.

At least two of the values of the first design variable may differ from each other over time.

By moving or changing the position of at least one of the selectors, the curvature of a curve can be changed by the values of the design variable.

The operating help can include at least three, preferably at least four, more preferably at least five, selectors.

An interactive graphical user interface (GUI) is disclosed, in particular as a technically functional GUI, for designing or designing a process. The process can =: be a procedural or chemical process. A Pareto front is for a first

Parameter and a second parameter formed. Values of the parameters are formed based on values of a design variable of the process. A first operating help with at least two selectors is shown for the values of the design size. A pose or position of the selectors sets or reflects the values of the design size o. A representation of the Pareto front for the parameters is shown.

A progression is formed by the values of the design size. The course can be displayed.

The curvature of the curve can be changed by actuating at least one of the selectors. The actuation can be performed by a user. zs The representation of the Pareto front can be curvilinear, curved, or domed.

A (further) method of designing or designing a process includes the steps:

providing a value of a first design variable of the process;

providing a value of a first parameter, the value of the first parameter o being formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable;

providing an optimized value for the first parameter;

Determination of a deviation of the value of the first parameter from the optimized value for the first parameter, cf. claim 28. The process can be an engineering process or a chemical process.

The first parameter can be any parameter disclosed herein. The optimized value for the first parameter can be a value that is optimized compared to the first value of the first parameter. The optimized value can be understood as a mathematically optimized value s. The optimized value can be a minimum or a maximum

Function, especially a target function. The optimized value can be a result of a (mathematical) optimization.

For example, the first parameter can be an energy consumption of a process. The energy consumption should be optimized. The energy consumption can be described by a target function o with, for example, at least two parameters or variables. The optimized value is the minimum energy consumption.

A user can set or change the value of the first design size.

A representation of the optimized value for the theme size can be provided. The representation of the optimized value can be based on the optimized value for the first parameter.

A deviation of the value of the first design variable from the representation of the optimized value can be determined.

It can be determined whether the deviation of the value of the first design variable from the representation of the optimized value is reduced by increasing or by decreasing the J value of the first design variable.

The value of the first design size can be changed, especially by a user. The value of the first design parameter can be changed in such a way that the deviation of the value of the first parameter from the optimized value for the first parameter is reduced. io A value for a first design size and a value for a second design size can be provided. The value of the first parameter can be formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable and the second design variable.

A (yet another) method for designing or designing a process with an interactive navigation comprises the steps of: o providing a value of a first design variable of the process;

providing a value of a first parameter, the value of the parameter being formed on the basis of the value of the design variable; providing an optimized value for the first parameter;

Presenting a first operating help with a first selector for the value of the first design variable, wherein a setting or position of the selector represents the value of the design variable; displaying a representation of the optimized value for the first parameter on the first user help;

Moving or changing, by a user, the position of the first selector of the first operating help in the direction of the representation of the optimized value for the first parameter, see claim 33. The process is preferably a process engineering process or a chemical process.

A value for the first design size and a value for a second design size can be provided. In particular, a value for the first design variable and a value for the second design variable can be provided.

The first operating help with the first selector can be presented for the value of the first theme size. The pose or position of the first selector may represent the value of the first design variable. A second user guide with a second selector can be presented for the value of the second design variable. The pose or position of the selector may represent the value of the second design variable. A representation of the optimized value for the first parameter can be displayed on the first and second user help. A representation of the optimized value for the first parameter can be displayed on the first operating help. A representation of the optimized value for the second parameter can be displayed on the second operating help.

A first operating aid with a first selector can be displayed for the value of the first parameter. A setting or position of the first selector may represent the value of the first parameter.

A representation of the optimized value for the first parameter can be displayed on the first operator help for the value of the first parameter.

The user can move or change the positions of the first selector towards the representation of the optimized value for the first parameter.

An interactive graphical user interface (GUI) is disclosed, in particular as a technically functional GUI, for designing or designing a process. The process can be a chemical or chemical process. A value of a first design size of the process and a value of a first parameter are provided. The value of the first characteristic is based on the value of the first design variable. An optimized value for the value of the first parameter is provided; a first operating aid with a first selector for the value of the first design variable is presented. A position of the selector represents the value of the first design variable; and a representation of the optimized value for the value of the first metric is displayed on the first prompt for the first design metric.

The first design variable value selector may be operable by a user to change the value of the first design variable. The selector for the value of the io first design variable can be directed towards the representation of the Pareto front for the

Parameters can be actuated by a user.

The first value of the parameter can be formed on the basis of the value of the first design variable of the process and a second value of a second design variable of the process.

A second user guide with a second selector can be presented for the value of the second u design size. A position or position of the second selector can den

Represent value of second design size. A representation of the optimized value for the first parameter can be displayed on the second operating aid for the second design parameter.

A first operating aid with a first selector can be displayed for the value of the first parameter o. A setting or position of the first selector can represent the value of the first parameter. A representation of the optimized value can be shown for the first parameter on the first operating help for the first parameter. The first selector may be operable by or by a user.

The GUI can be presented on a display device. The viewing device can be a display or a touchscreen.

A system may include a processor unit. The processor unit may be configured to carry out a method disclosed herein. The processor unit can be set up to carry out a method disclosed herein. The processor unit may be configured to generate or provide a GUI disclosed herein. The processor unit in this way can be set up to generate or provide a GUI disclosed herein.

The system can include a memory, in particular a non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions to perform a method disclosed herein. The memory may include instructions to generate a GUI disclosed herein or :i; to provide. A computer program product may include instructions that when executed (the program) by a computer cause it to perform a method disclosed herein. A computer program product may include instructions that when executed by a computer (the program) cause it to generate or provide a GUI disclosed herein.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with the aid of the figures. All explanations are equally to be used for the disclosure, but they should not be construed as having to be included as necessary parts of the claims. All of the following examples remain examples even if they are not explicitly preceded by "example".

FIG. 1 illustrates the sequence of a method of one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates the flow of a method of one or more embodiments of the invention as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates the flow of a method of one or more embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 4 illustrates the flow of a method of the one or more embodiments of the invention as shown in FIG. 3;

On the right, FIG. 1 shows a relationship between a first design variable x1 and a second design variable x2. A point 105 in an xl-x2 diagram results from a value provided for the first design variable xl and a value provided for the second design variable x2.

As described at the outset, it is sufficient if at least one design variable is considered and at least one value for the design variable is provided. However, multiple design sizes, e.g., three, four, five, or more than five design sizes, may be considered. A value may be or may be provided for each of the design sizes. A visual representation of the relationship between several design variables can be made using a projection. For a better understanding, two design variables are shown in the figures purely by way of example.

Point 105 on the xl-x2 diagram represents a currently selected design of a process. The first design size xl and the second design size x2 are considered. The real process can be defined by more than two design variables, it not being necessary for all design variables of the process to be changeable and to be represented in the method.

The value for the first design variable x1 and the value for the second design variable x2 can be entered by a user, for example via an input device or via a display device. Likewise, the value for the first design variable x1 and the value for the second design variable x2 can be stored in a memory.

In addition to the point 105, which is based on the current values of the first design variable x1 and the second design variable x2, previously stored or already determined points s 100 (shown on the right in FIG. 1 as diamonds) can be provided. The points 100 can on

values of the first design size xl and the second design size x2 saved by a user. The points 100 can be orientation or support points.

The xl-x2 diagram with the point 105 can be displayed on a display device. In addition, the points 100 can be displayed on the display device. A first operating aid 30 and a second operating aid 35 are shown on the right in FIG. An operating help can be provided for each considered design variable. If, for example, a design variable is (precisely) considered, an operating aid can (precisely) be provided. If, for example, n design variables xD are considered, n operating aids can be provided. The first operating aid 30 can include a first selector 31 . The second operating aid can include a second selector 36 . The position or location of the first selector 31 can represent the value of the first design variable xl. The position or location of the second selector 36 may represent the value of the second design variable x2.

The positions or locations of first selector 31 and second selector 36 may correlate with point 105 . In other words, the location of point 105 in the xl-x2-

Diagram and the positions or locations of the first selector 31 and the second selector 36 may be coupled to each other.

The operating aids for the design sizes, in particular with the respective associated selector, can be displayed on a display device. A relationship between a first parameter y1 and a second parameter y2 is illustrated on the left in FIG. A point 115 in a yl-y2 diagram is defined by a value of the first parameter yl and a value of the second parameter y2.

It is sufficient if at least one parameter is considered. At least one value for the parameter can be provided for this purpose. Several parameters, eg three, four, five or more than five parameters, can be considered. A value may be or may be provided for each of the parameters. A visual representation of the relationship between several parameters can be made using a projection. Again, purely by way of example, two parameters are shown in the figures for easy understanding. The number of design variables considered can be independent of the number of parameters considered. Alternatively, the number of design variables considered can be equal to the number of characteristic variables considered.

Point 115 represents a value of the first parameter yl and a value of the second parameter y2. The point 115 can be provided, in particular represented, in the yl-y2 diagram (on the left in FIG. 1).

The values of the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2 can be based on the values of the first design variable x1 and the second design variable x2. The values of the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2 can be formed on the basis of the values of the first design variable x1 and the second design variable x2.

A user can select parameters to be considered. Likewise, a user can select design sizes to be viewed.

Additional points 110 may be provided. These points are shown as diamonds on the left in FIG. The points 110 can be pre-stored or already determined points. Each of the points 110 for the parameters can be based on (each) a point 100 for the

design sizes are based. Each of the points 110 for the parameters can be formed based on one (each) of the points 100 .

The yl-y2 diagram with the point 115 can be displayed on a display device. In addition, the points 110 can be displayed on the display device.

J Links in Figure 1 is still a first operating aid 20 and a second operating aid 25 for

parameters shown. A (separate) operating help can be provided for each parameter under consideration. When considering (precisely) one parameter, (precisely) operating help can be provided for the parameter. When considering n parameters yK, n operating aids can be provided for the parameters. S The first operating aid 20 for the first parameter yl can include a first selector 21 .

The second operating aid 25 for the second parameter y2 can include a second selector 26 . The position of the first selector 21 for the first parameter yl can represent the value of the first parameter yl. The position or attitude of the second selector 26 for the second parameter y2 can represent the value of the second parameter y2.

The positions or locations of the first selector 21 for the first parameter yl and of the second selector 26 for the second parameter y2 can correlate with the point 115 .

The location of point 115 on the yl-y2 diagram and the positions or locations of the first Selector 21 for the first parameter yl and the second selector 26 for the second parameter y2 can be coupled to one another.

The operating aids for the parameters, in particular with the respectively associated selector, can be displayed on a display device. o For example, the process under consideration can be a separation of substances. The first parameter can be a heat flow, for example, and the second parameter can be a degree of purity of a separated substance. The first design variable can be a temperature of the process and the second design variable can be a pressure of the process. A user can provide a value for the temperature, e.g. 120 °C, and a pressure, e.g. 3.5 bar (3,500 hPa). o Values for temperature and pressure can also be stored in the system, e.g. stored in a memory. Based on the values of the temperature (first design variable) and the pressure (second design variable), values for the heat flow (first parameter) and the degree of purity of the separated substance (second parameter) can be specified. The values for the first parameter and the second parameter can be determined. It can therefore be immediately apparent to the user which value results for the heat flow of the process and which value results for the degree of purity of the separated substance based on the design parameters, i.e. the temperature and the pressure, for the process.

The illustration in FIG. 2 relates to the illustration in FIG. 1 and clarifies a role for the user in the method.

As can be seen on the left in FIG. 2, a Pareto front 10 can be provided for the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2. The Pareto front 10 does not have to be understood continuously, but can be understood functionally in a coherent manner. For example, supporting points 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 of the Pareto front 10 can be provided or have been provided.

Each of the interpolation points 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 can represent a Pareto optimum for the two parameters yl, y2.

A deviation can be determined between a point on the Pareto front 10, for example a support point 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 on the Pareto front 10, and the point 115 of the two parameters yl, y2. The deviation can be understood as an optimization potential.

The process can be designed in such a way that one of the two parameters or both parameters are improved without one of the two parameters being degraded. For example, if a parameter is the purity of a separated substance, a Improving this parameter increases the purity and reduces the purity when this parameter deteriorates.

A user can select a point on the Pareto front 10 . The point can be one or more of the support points 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 of the Pareto front 10. A user can select several points of the Pareto front 10, for example offset in time.

A Pareto front 40 can be provided for the first design size xl and the second design size x2. The Pareto front 40 for the design variables xl, x2 can generally be a representation of the Pareto front 40 for the design variables xl, x2 or a representation of the Pareto front 10 for the two parameters yl, y2. For example, the Pareto front 40o for the design variables xl, x2 can be based on the Pareto front 10 for the parameters yl, y2. The Pareto front 40 for the design variables x1, x2 can also be formed on the basis of the Pareto front 10 for the parameters yl, y2.

The Pareto front 40 for the design sizes xl, x2 does not have to be understood as continuous, but can be understood as being functionally connected and interpolation points 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46 of the Pareto front 40 can be or will be provided. Each of the support points 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46 can represent a Pareto optimum for the design variables x1, x2.

A deviation can be determined between a point on the Pareto front 40, for example a reference point 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46 on the Pareto front 40, and the point 105 of the two design variables x1, x2. This deviation can be understood as an "optimization path". For Pareto optimization of the process, one or more of the design variables can be changed according to the deviation.

A user can select a point on the Pareto front 40, in particular one or more of the support points 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46 of the Pareto front 40. It is also possible for the user to make multiple selections, for example at different times, from a number of points on the Pareto front 40 .

Points on the Pareto front 10 for the parameters y1, y2 and points on the Pareto front 40 for the design variables x1, x2 can be linked to one another. If, for example, a point on the Pareto front 10 is selected for the parameters y1, y2, a point on the Pareto front 40 linked to this point can (also) be selected for the design variables x1, x2. If a point on the Pareto front 40 is selected for the design variables xl, x2, a point linked to this point on the Pareto front 10 can (also) be selected for the parameters y1, y2. The point can be selected by the user. The first operating aid 30 for the first design size xl can include a first selector 31, for example as described above. In addition to the first selector 31, a representation 32 of the Pareto front 40 for the design variables x1, x2 can be displayed on or in the first operating aid 30. The representation 32 of the Pareto front 40 for the design sizes x1, x2 can be a marking on the first operating aid 30. The representation 32 can be a representation of a point of the Pareto front 40 for the design sizes x1, x2. The representation 32 is preferably a representation of the selected point of the Pareto front 40 for the design variables x1, x2.

A distance between the representation 32 of the Pareto front 40 for the design variables xl, x2 and the first selector 31 of the first operating aid 30 can convey to the user the value by which the first design variable xl would have to be changed in order to come closer to a Pareto optimum of the process or to achieve it. Nevertheless, the position or location of the representation 32 of the Pareto front 40 for the design variables xl, x2 relative to the position or location of the first selector 31 of the first operating help 30 can convey to the user in which direction the value of the first design variable xl is to be changed, i.e whether the value of the first design quantity xl must be increased or decreased in order to approach or reach a Pareto optimum of the process.

Analogously, a representation 37 of the Pareto front 40 for the design variables can be provided on the second operating aid 35 for the second design variable x2. The representation 37 can be provided in addition to the second selector 36 . the

Representation 37 may be a marker. The representation 37 of the second operating aid 35 can be implemented in the same way as the representation 32 of the first operating aid 30.

In general, a representation of the Pareto front for the design variables can be provided for each operating help for a design variable.

A first design size xl and a second design size x2 are to be understood as examples. (Exactly) one design size can be provided or more than two design sizes can be provided. Likewise, a first parameter y1 and a second parameter y2 are to be understood as examples. (Precisely) one parameter can be provided or more than two parameters can be provided.

The Pareto front 40, the first operating aid 30, in particular with the representation 32 of the Pareto front 40, and/or the second operating aid 35, in particular with the representation 37 of the Pareto front 40, can be displayed on a display device.

A user can change the value of the first design size xl. In particular, the user can change the value of the first design variable xl in the direction of the representation 32 on the first operating help 30 . The user can change the value of the first design size xl like this change such that a deviation between the value of the first design size xl and the point on the pareto front 40 for the design sizes is reduced.

To do this, the user can move the selector 31 in the direction of the representation 32 of the first operating aid 30 . This can be done, for example, by marking the selector 31 and dragging the selector 31 to a different position.

Alternatively, the value of the first design size xl can be changed automatically. The user can preferably start a functionality that changes the value of the first design variable xl. For example, the user may select or click a button (not shown in the figures), e.g., "Enhance", which changes the value of the first o design size.

Similarly, the user can change the value of the second design size x2. In particular, the user can change the value of the second design variable x2 in the direction of the representation 37 on the second operating help 35 . The user can change the value of the second design size x2 so that a deviation between the value of the second u design size x2 and the point on the pareto front 40 for the design sizes is reduced.

The value of the second design variable x2 can be changed in the same way or analogously to the change in the value of the first design variable x1, for example by the described movement of the selector in the direction of the representation or by the described automated change. Marking and moving the second selector 36 in the direction of the representation 37 is indicated by a hand symbol 120 in FIG.

The value of the first design variable xl and the value of the second design variable x2 can be coupled with one another in such a way that a change in the value of the first design variable xl causes a change in the value of the second design variable x2 and/or that a zs change in the value of the second design variable x2 causes a change in the value of the first design variable xl. Alternatively, the values of the first design variable xl and the second design variable x2 can be decoupled so that a change in the value of the first design variable xl does not change the value of the second design variable x2 and/or so that a change in the value of the second design variable x2 does not change the value of the first design size xl.

In particular, the first selector 31 of the first operating aid 30 and the second selector 36 of the second operating aid 35 can be coupled to one another in such a way that a movement of the first selector 31 causes a movement of the second selector 36 and/or that a movement of the second selector 36 causes a movement of the first selector 31 causes. Alternatively, the first selector 31 of the first operating aid 30 and the second selector 36 of the second operating aid 35 can be decoupled so that a movement of the first selector 31 does not cause a movement of the second selector 36 and/or so that a movement of the second selector 36 does not cause a movement of the first Selector 31 causes. s The first operating aid 20 for the first parameter yl can include a first selector 21, for example as described above. In addition to the first selector 21, a representation 22 of the Pareto front 10 for the parameters y1, y2 can be displayed on or in the first operating aid 20. The representation 22 of the Pareto front 10 for the parameters y1, y2 can be a marking on the first operating aid 20. The representation 22 can be an io representation of a point on the Pareto front 10 for the parameters yl, y2. The representation 22 is preferably a representation of the selected point of the Pareto front 10 for the parameters yl, y2.

Analogously to the first operating help 30 for the design variables xl, x2, the representation 22 of the first operating help 30 for the parameters yl, y2 can convey to the user how a value of the first parameter yl is to be changed in order to get closer to a Pareto optimum of the process come or reach it.

A representation 27 of the Pareto front 10 for the parameters can be provided on the second operating aid 25 for the second parameter y2. The representation 27 can be provided in addition to the second selector 26 . The representation 27 can be such a marking. The representation 27 of the second operating aid 25 can be implemented analogously or identically to the representation 22 of the first operating aid 20.

In general, a representation of the Pareto front for the parameters can be provided for each operating help for a parameter. Here, too, a first parameter and a second parameter are purely exemplary.

The Pareto front 10, the first operating aid 20, in particular with the representation 22 of the Pareto front 10, and/or the second operating aid 25, in particular with the representation 27 of the Pareto front 10, can be displayed on a display device.

A user can change the value of the first parameter yl. In particular, the user can change the value of the first parameter yl in the direction of the representation 22 on the first operating aid 20 . The user can change the value of the first parameter yl in such a way that a deviation between the value of the first parameter yl and the point on the Pareto front 10 for the parameters is reduced.

To do this, the user can move the selector 21 in the direction of the representation 22 of the first operating aid 20 . This can be done, for example, by marking the selector 21 and :i; dragging the selector 21 to another position. Alternatively, the value of the first parameter y1 can be changed automatically. The user can preferably start a functionality that changes the value of the first parameter yl. For example, the user can select or click a button (not shown in the figures), eg "Improve", which changes the value of the first parameter.

The user can change the value of the second parameter y2. In particular, the user can change the value of the second parameter y2 in the direction of the representation 27 on the second operating aid 25 . The user can change the value of the second parameter y2 in such a way that a deviation between the value of the second parameter y2 and the point on the Pareto front 10 for the parameters is reduced. The value of the second parameter y2 can be changed in the same way or analogously to the change in the value of the first parameter y1, for example by moving the selector in the direction of the representation or by the automated change.

The value of the first parameter yl and the value of the second parameter y2 can be coupled with one another in such a way that a change in the value of the first parameter yl causes a change in the value of the second parameter y2 and/or that a change in the value of the second parameter y2 causes a Change in the value of the first parameter yl causes. Alternatively, the values of the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2 can be decoupled, so that a change in the value of the first parameter yl does not change the value of the second parameter y2 and/or so that a change in the value of the second parameter y2 does not change the value the first parameter yl causes.

In particular, the first selector 21 of the first operating aid 20 and the second selector 26 of the second operating aid 25 can be coupled to one another in such a way that a movement of the first selector 21 causes a movement of the second selector 26 and/or that a

Movement of the second selector 26 causes movement of the first selector 21.

Alternatively, the first selector 21 of the first operating aid 20 and the second selector 26 of the second operating aid 25 can be decoupled, so that a movement of the first selector 21 does not cause the second selector 26 to move and/or so that a movement of the second selector 26 does not cause a movement of the first Selector 21 causes.

The value of the first design variable xl and the value of the first parameter yl can be coupled with one another in such a way that a change in the value of the first design variable xl causes a change in the value of the first parameter yl and/or that a change in the value of the first parameter yl causes a change the value of the first design size xl. Alternatively, the value of the first design size xl and the

Value of the first parameter yl be decoupled. All values of design variables and all values of parameters can be coupled to each other or decoupled.

Instead of a Pareto front, in particular a Pareto front 10 for the parameters, an optimized value can be provided. The optimized value can replace the Paretofront 10 for the s parameters. This can be provided in particular if (exactly) one

Parameter is provided or is considered.

On the right-hand side, FIG. 3 shows a design variable x1 over time. For this purpose, the design variable xl is plotted against time t in the example in FIG. 3 on the right (xl-t diagram).

Several curves are shown, with a curve 135 (dashed curve) being a currently selected curve of the design size xl. Additional courses 130 are shown, where courses 130 are not currently selected.

For example, the design variable xl can be a temperature. The value of the temperature can change depending on the time (the process). This is intended in particular for batch processes. The course can be formed by several values of the design variable xl as a function of time.

A design size xl is provided in FIG. 3, several design sizes xD are possible.

The value for the design size xl can be entered by a user, e.g., via an input device or via a display device. Likewise, the value for the first design size xl can be stored in a memory. zo The xl-t diagram with the course 135 can be displayed on a display device.

In addition, the curves 130 can be displayed on the display device.

A relationship between a first parameter y1 and a second parameter y2 is illustrated on the left in FIG. A point 145 in a yl-y2 diagram zs is defined by a value of the first parameter yl and a value of the second parameter y2. It is sufficient if at least one parameter is considered. At least one value for the parameter can be provided for this purpose.

The values of the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2 can be based on the values of the first design variable xl. The values of the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2 can be formed on the basis of the values of the first design variable xl. so Additional points 140 may be provided. These points are left as in Figure 3

Diamonds shown. The points 140 can be pre-stored points or points already determined. Each of the points 140 for the parameters can be on a course 130 for the design size based. Each of the points 110 for the parameters can be formed based on one of the profiles 130 .

The yl-y2 diagram with point 145 can be displayed on a display device. In addition, the points 140 can be displayed on the display device. o Links in Figure 3 is still a first operating aid 60 and a second operating aid 65 for

parameters shown. A (separate) operating help can be provided for each parameter under consideration. When considering (precisely) one parameter, (precisely) operating help can be provided for the parameter. When considering n parameters yK, n operating aids can be provided for the parameters. o The first operating help 60 for the first parameter yl can include a first selector 61 .

The second operating aid 65 for the second parameter y2 can include a second selector 66 . The position of the first selector 61 for the first parameter yl can represent the value of the first parameter yl. The position of the second selector 66 for the second parameter y2 can represent the value of the second parameter y2u.

The positions or positions of the first selector 61 for the first parameter yl and of the second selector 66 for the second parameter y2 can correlate with the point 145 .

The position of the point 145 in the yl-y2 diagram and the positions or locations of the first selector 61 for the first parameter yl and the second selector 66 for the second parameter y2 can be coupled to one another.

The operating aids for the parameters, in particular with the respectively associated selector, can be displayed on a display device.

FIG. 4 illustrates a role of the user in the method.

As can be seen on the left in FIG. 4, a Pareto front 50 can be provided for the first parameter yl and the second parameter y2. The Pareto front 50 does not have to be understood as continuous, but can be understood as being functionally coherent. For example, support points 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 of the Pareto front 50 can be provided or have been provided.

Each of the interpolation points 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 can represent a Pareto optimum for the two parameters y1, y2.

A deviation can be determined between a point on the Pareto front 50, for example a support point 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, of the Pareto front 50, and the point 145 of the two parameters y1, y2. The deviation can be understood as an optimization potential. A user can select a point on the Pareto front 50 . The point can be one or more of the support points 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 of the Pareto front 50. A user can select multiple points on the Pareto front 50, for example offset in time.

A trajectory 72 (also referred to as a representation of the Pareto front 50 s) can be provided for the design variable xl. The trajectory 72 for the design variable xl can generally be a representation of the Pareto front 50 for the two parameters y1, y2. For example, the trajectory 72 for the design variable xl can be based on the Pareto front 50 for the parameters y1, y2. The trajectory 72 for the design variable xl can also be formed on the basis of the Pareto front 50 for the parameters y1, y2. A deviation can be determined between the trajectory 72 and the profile 135 of the design variable xl. This deviation can be understood as an "optimization path". For Pareto optimization of the process, the curve 135 of the design variable can be changed according to the deviation.

Points on the Pareto front 50 for the parameters yl, y2 and the trajectory 72 for the u design variable xl can be linked to one another. For example, if a point on the

Pareto front 50 is selected for the parameters yl, y2, a trajectory 72 linked to this point can (also) be selected for the design variable xl. Multiple trajectories 72 may be provided. Each of the trajectories can be linked to a point on the Pareto front 50 for the parameters yl, y2. The point can be selected by the user :io.

As can be seen on the right in FIG. 4, at least one operating aid 71 can be provided for the course 135 of the design size xl. The operating help 71 can include at least two, preferably at least three, four or five, selectors 71a, 71b, 71c, 71d, 71e. The operating help 71 allows the user to adjust the course 135 of the design size xl. Preferably, at least one of the selectors 71a, 71b, 71c, 71d, 71e can be configured or designed to change the position of the profile 135. At least one of the selectors 71a, 71b, 71c, 71d, 71e can be set up or designed to change the curvature of the curve 135. At least two selectors 71c, 71e are preferably set up or designed to change the position of the profile 135 and at least two selectors 71b, 71d are set up or designed to change the curvature of the profile 135.

For example, a user can mark one of the selectors 71a, 71b, 71c, 71d, 71e, preferably by touching a touch screen or by clicking on the selector, and the position of the selector 71a, 71b, 71c, 71d, 71e, preferably by dragging , change. This is indicated by the hand symbol 120 in FIG. As a result, the shape of the curve 135 can be changed. In particular, the shape of the trace 135 can be changed such that the shape of the trace 135 is more similar to the shape of the trajectory 72 than before the change. The shape of the curve 135 can be changed in such a way that a deviation between the shape of the curve 135 and the trajectory 72 is less than before the change in the curve 135. This allows the process to be Pareto-optimized.

The first operating aid 60 for the first parameter yl can include a first selector 61 . In addition to the first selector 61, a representation 62 of the Pareto front 50 for the parameters y1, y2 can be displayed on or in the first operating aid 60. The representation 62 of the Pareto front 50 for the parameters y1, y2 can be a marking on the first operating aid 60. Representation 62 may be a representation of a

point of the Pareto front 50 for the parameters yl, y2. The representation 62 is preferably a representation of the selected point of the Pareto front 50 for the parameters yl, y2.

A representation 67 of the Pareto front 50 for the parameters can be provided on the second operating aid 65 for the second parameter y2. The representation 67 can be provided in addition to the second selector 66 . Representation 67 can be a marker. The representation 67 of the second operating help 65 can be implemented analogously or identically to the representation 62 of the first operating help 60.

In general, a representation of the Pareto front for the parameters can be provided for each operating help for a parameter. A first parameter and a second

Parameter purely as an example.

In general, at least one condition or restriction 90 can be provided, in particular represented, in each of the diagrams. The condition or constraint 90 may be an apparatus, physical, process engineering, or chemical condition or constraint 90 . The condition or constraint 90 conveys to the user that a change in the process is occurring within an area of the condition or constraint 90, which may be undesirable.

A process design defined by a change in at least one value of a design variable can be stored in a database.

Claims

Expectations ...

1. Method for designing or designing a process, in particular a chemical or chemical process, the method with the steps

(a) providing a value of a first design quantity (xl, x2, ..., xD) of the process;

(b) providing a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and a value of a second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), where

: · the values of the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) are formed on the basis of the value of the first design quantity (xl, x2, ..., xD);

(c) providing a Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK); and

(d) determining a deviation of the value of the first parameter iS (yl, y2, ..., yK) from a point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10) and/or determining a deviation of the value the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) to the point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10)

2 is determined or selected by a user, in particular the point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10) by a user from at least three, preferably at least five, more preferably at least ten points (11, 12, . .., 16) the Pareto front (10) is determined or selected.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a user determines or changes the value of the design size (xl, iS x2, ..., xD).

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a value for the first design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) and a value for a second design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) are provided.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein a Pareto front (40) for the two design sizes (x1, x2, ..., xD) or a representation of the Pareto front for the two design sizes (x1, x2, ..., xD) is provided , in particular where the Pareto front (40) for the two design variables (xl, x2, ..., xD) or the representation of the Pareto front is based on the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK). .

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein a deviation of the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, xD) to a point (41, 42, ..., 46) of the Pareto front (40) for the two design variables (xl, x2, ..., xD) is determined and / or a deviation of the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) to the point (41, 42, ..., 46) of the Pareto front (40) for the two design sizes (xl, x2, ..., xD) are determined.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein it is determined whether the deviation of the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) to the point (41, 42, ..., 46) of the Pareto front (40) for the two design sizes (xl, x2, ..., xD) are decreased by increasing or by decreasing the value of the first design size (xl, x2, ..., xD); and/or it is determined whether the deviation of the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) from the point (41, 42, ..., 46) of the Pareto front (40) for the two design variables ( xl, x2, ..., xD) by increasing or decreasing the value of the second design size (xl, x2, ..., xD).

8. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein a user enters the value for the first design size (xl, x2, ..., xD) and/or the value for the second design size (xl, x2, ..., xD ) determined or changed.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is changed, in particular is changed in such a way that the deviation of the value of the first and/or second parameter (yl, y2 , ..., yK) to the point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK).

10. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is changed, in particular by a user, such that the deviation of the value of the first and/or second parameter ( yl, y2, ..., yK) is reduced to the point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK); and/or wherein the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is changed, in particular by a user, in such a way that the deviation in the value of the first and/or second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) to the point (11, 12, ..., 16) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK).

11. Method for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, with an interactive navigation, the method with the steps

(b) providing a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and a value of a second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), the values of the parameters (yl, y2, .. ., yK) are formed based on the value of the first design quantity (xl, x2, ..., xD);

(c) providing a Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK);

(d) Providing a first operating aid (30) with a first selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD), wherein a setting or position of the selector (31) determines the value of the design variable ( x1, x2, ..., xD);

(e) displaying a representation (32) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the first operating aid (30); and

(f) moving or changing, by a user, the position of the first selector (31) of the first operating aid (30) in the direction of the representation (32) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein a value for a first design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) and a value for a second design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) are provided.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the first operating aid (30) is displayed with the first selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (x1, x2, ..., xD), the setting or position of the first selector ( 31) represents the value of the first design size (xl, x2, ..., xD); and wherein a second operating aid (35) with a second selector (36) for the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is displayed, the position of the second selector (36) indicating the value of the second Design size (xl, x2, ..., xD) represents, and in each case a representation (32, 37) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the first and second operating help (30, 35).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the user selects the positions of the first and/or second selector (31, 36) in the direction of the representation (32, 37) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ... , yK) moved or changed.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the positions of the first and/or second selector (31, 36) in the direction of the representation of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) is moved or changed by user input.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein a first operating aid (20) with a first selector (21) for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed, with a setting or position of the first selector (21) represents the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK); and wherein a second operating aid (25) with a second selector (26) for the value of the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed, wherein a setting or position of the second selector (26) the value of the second Parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) represented.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein in each case a representation (22, 27) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the first operating aid (20, 25) for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and on the second operating aid (20, 25) for the value of the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK).

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the user selects the positions of the first and/or second selector (21, 26) in the direction of the representation (22, 27) of the Pareto front (10) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ... , yK) moved or changed.

19. Interactive graphical user interface as a technically functional GUI for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, wherein

(a) a Pareto front (10) is formed for a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and a second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), with values of the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) are formed based on a value of a first design quantity (xl, x2, ..., xD) of the process;

(b) a first operating aid (30) with a selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is displayed, with a setting or position of the selector (31) indicating the value of the first design variable (x1,x2,...,xD); and

(c) a representation (32) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the first operating aid (30) for the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD). becomes.

The GUI of claim 19, wherein the selector (31) for the value of the first design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) is operable by a user so that the value of the first design size (x1, x2, ... , xD) is changed, in particular with the selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) in the direction of the representation (32) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) can be actuated by a user.

21. GUI according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the values of the parameters (yl, y2, yK) are based on the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, xD) of the process and a second value of a second design variable (xl, x2, . .., xD) of the process are formed.

22. GUI according to claim 21, wherein a second operating help (35) with a selector (36) for the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is displayed, wherein a setting or position of the selector (36) represents the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD), with a representation (37) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the second operating help (35) for the second design size (xl, x2, ..., xD).

The GUI of claim 22, wherein the selector (36) for the value of the second design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) is operable by a user so that the value of the second design size (x1, x2, ..., ... , xD) is changed, in particular with the selector (36) for the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) in the direction of the representation (37) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) can be actuated by a user.

24. GUI according to one of claims 19 to 23, wherein a first operating aid (20) with a first selector (21) for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed, with a setting or position of the first selector (21) represents the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), with a representation (22) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK). the first operating help (20) for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed, and wherein the selector (21) can be actuated by a user.

25. GUI according to claim 24, wherein a second operating aid (25) is displayed with a second selector (26) for the value of the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), wherein a setting or position of the second selector ( 26) represents the value of the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), with a representation (27) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the second operating help ( 25) for the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), and wherein the selector (26) can be actuated by a user.

26. GUI according to one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the Pareto front (10) or a representation of the Pareto front (10) is displayed and a point of the Pareto front (10) can be selected by a user, the representation (22, 27, 32 , 37) on the respective operating aid (30, 35, 20, 25) based on the point of the Pareto front (10).

27. GUI according to one of claims 19 to 26, wherein the GUI is displayed on a visual device, in particular on a display or a touch screen.

28. Method for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, the method with the steps

(a) providing values of a design variable (xl,...,xD) of the process, wherein at least two of the values differ from each other as a function of time;

(b) providing a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and a value of a second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), the values of the parameters (yl, y2, .. ., yK) are formed based on the values of the first design quantity (xl, x2, ..., xD);

(c) providing a Pareto front (50) for the two parameters (yl, y2,

..., yK); and

(d) determining a deviation of the value of the first parameter (yl,

33 y2, ..., yK) to the Pareto front (50) and/or determine a deviation of the value of the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) to the Pareto front (50).

29. Method according to claim 28, with the step: determining a deviation of the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) from a point (51, 52, ..., 56) of the

>0 Pareto front (50) and/or determine a deviation of the value of the second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) from the point (51, 52, ..., 56) of the Pareto front (50).

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein a user determines or changes at least one of the values of the design size (xl, ..., xD).

31. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein based on the Pareto front

30 (50) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) a trajectory (72) for the design variable (xl, ..., xD) is determined, in particular with values of at least two points on the trajectory ( 72) are different from each other as a function of time.

32. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the curvature of a profile is changed by the values of the design variable (xl, . . . , xD), in particular is changed by a user.

33. Method for designing or designing a process, in particular a chemical or chemical process, with an interactive navigation, the method with the steps

(a) providing values of a design size (xl,...,xD) of the process;

(b) providing a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and a value of a second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), the values of the parameters (yl, y2, .. . , yK) are formed based on the values of the design size;

(c) providing a Pareto front (50) for the two parameters (yl, y2, yK);

(d) Displaying an operating aid (71) with at least two selectors (71a, 71b, ..., 71e) for the values of the design variable (xl, ..., xD), with a setting or position of the selectors (71a, 71b , ..., 71e) set or reflect the values of the design size (xl, ..., xD);

(e) displaying a representation (72) of the Pareto front (50) for the two parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK); and

(f) A user moving or changing the position of at least one of the selectors (71a, 71b, ..., 71e) of the operating aid (71).

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein moving or changing the position of the at least one of the selectors (71a, 71b, ..., 71e) changes the curvature of a gradient through the values of the design variable (xl, ..., xD). becomes.

35. The method according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the operating aid (71) comprises at least three, preferably at least four, more preferably at least five, selectors (71a, 71b, ..., 71e).

36. Interactive graphical user interface as a technically functional GUI for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, wherein

(a) a Pareto front (50) for a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) and s a second parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is formed, with values of the

characteristics (yl, y2, ..., yK) are formed on the basis of values of a design variable (xl, ..., xD) of the process;

(b) a first operating aid (70) with at least two selectors (71a, 71b,

..., 71e) for the values of the design size (xl, ..., xD), o wherein a position of the selectors (71a, 71b, ..., 71e) the values of the design size (xl, x2 , ..., xD) set or reflect; and

(c) a representation (72) of the Pareto front (50) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) is shown. ·! 37. GUI according to claim 36, wherein a progression is formed and displayed by the values of the design size (xl, .xD).

38. GUI according to claim 37, wherein by actuating, in particular by a user, one of the selectors (71a, 71b, ..., 71e) to change the curvature of the curve. o 39. GUI according to one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the representation (72) of

Pareto front (50) is curvilinear.

40. Method for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, the method with the steps

(a) providing a value of a first design quantity (xl,x2.0...,xD) of the process;

(b) providing a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), wherein the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is based on the value of the first design parameter (xl, x2, ..., xD) is formed; 0 (c) providing an optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK); and

(d) determining a deviation of the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) from the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK).

41. The method according to claim 40, wherein a user determines or changes the value of the first design variable (x1, x2, xD).

42. The method according to claim 40 or 41, wherein a representation of the optimized value for the design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is provided, in particular wherein the representation of the optimized value is based on the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is based.

43. The method according to any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein a deviation of the value of the first design variable (x1, x2, ..., xD) from the representation of the optimized value is determined.

44. The method according to claim 43, wherein it is determined whether the deviation of the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) from the representation of the optimized value is due to an increase or a decrease in the value of the first design variable (xl , x2, ..., xD) is reduced.

45. The method according to any one of claims 40 to 44, wherein the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) is changed, in particular is changed in such a way that the deviation of the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, . .., yK) to the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK).

46. The method according to any one of claims 40 to 45, wherein a value for the first design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) and a value for a second design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) are provided.

47. The method according to claim 46, wherein the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is based on the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) and the second design variable (xl, x2 , ..., xD) is formed.

48. Method for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, with an interactive navigation, the method with the steps ...

(b) providing a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), the value of the parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) being calculated based on the value of the design variable (xl, x2, .. ., xD) is formed;

(c) providing an optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ·.., yK); (d) displaying a first operating aid (30) with a first selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, xD), with a setting or position of the selector (31) changing the value of the design variable (xl, x2, xD) represents;

(e) displaying a representation of the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, yK) on the first operating aid (30);

(f) A user moves or changes the position of the first selector (31) of the first operating aid (30) in the direction of the representation of the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, io y2, ..., yK).

49. The method of claim 48, wherein a value for the first design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) and a value for a second design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) are provided.

50. The method according to claim 49, wherein the first operating aid (30) is displayed with the first selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD), the setting or position of the selector (31 ) represents the value of the first design size (xl, x2, ..., xD); and wherein a second operating aid (35) is displayed with a selector (36) for the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD), the setting or position of the selector (36) determining the value of the second design variable ( xl, x2, ..., xD) and wherein a representation of the ϊq optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is shown on the first and second operating help (30, 35).

51. The method according to any one of claims 48 to 50, wherein a first operating aid (20) with a first selector (21) for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed, with a setting or position of the first selector (21) the

Ϊ3 represents the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK).

52. The method according to claim 51, wherein a representation of the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the first operating aid (20) for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is shown.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein the user changes the positions of the first selector

30 (21) is moved or changed in the direction of representing the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK).

54. Interactive graphical user interface as a technically functional GUI for designing or designing a process, in particular a procedural or chemical process, wherein

(a) a value of a first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) of the process and a value of a first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is provided, the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) based on the value of the first design quantity (xl, x2, ..., xD), and an optimized value for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK ) is provided;

(c) a representation of the optimized value for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is shown on the first operating aid (30) for the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD).

The GUI of claim 54, wherein the selector (31) for the value of the first design size (x1, x2, ..., xD) is operable by a user so that the value of the first design size (x1, x2, ... , xD) is changed, in particular with the selector (31) for the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) in the direction of the representation (32) of the Pareto front (10) for the parameters (yl, y2, ..., yK) can be actuated by a user.

56. GUI according to claim 54 or 55, wherein the first value of the parameter (yl, y2, yK) is based on the value of the first design variable (xl, x2, xD) of the process and a second value of a second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD) of the process are formed.

57. GUI according to claim 56, wherein a second operating aid (35) is displayed with a selector (36) for the value of the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD), wherein a setting or position of the selector (36) represents the value of the second design size (xl, x2, ..., xD), being a representation of the optimized value for the first

Parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed on the second operating aid (35) for the second design variable (xl, x2, ..., xD).

58. GUI according to one of claims 54 to 57, wherein a first operating aid (20) with a first selector (21) for the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) is displayed, with a setting or position of the first selector (21) represents the value of the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), with a representation of the optimized value for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK) on the first operating help ( 20) for the first parameter (yl, y2, ..., yK), and wherein the selector (21) can be actuated by a user.

59. GUI according to one of claims 54 to 58, wherein the GUI is displayed on a visual device, in particular on a display or a touch screen.

A system comprising a processor unit configured to perform the method of any of claims 1 to 18 or 28 to 35 or 40 to 53, or the interactive graphical user interface of any of claims 19 to 27 or 36 to 39 or 54 to 59 to generate.

61. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, causes it to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 18 or 28 to 35 or 40 to 53, or the interactive graphical user interface according to any one of claims 19 to 27 or 36 to 39 or 54 to 59.