Overview

This chapter provides 105 definitions organized thematically to support understanding, rather than alphabetically. Mastering these terms is essential before working with the models and lifecycle chapters.

Core System Concepts

Term	Definition
Automated procedure	An operating procedure that incorporates at least some level of automated control elements, rather than relying entirely on manual operator actions.
Manual procedure	A completely manual operating procedure where all control actions are performed by human operators without any automated control elements.
BPCS	Basic Process Control System — receives input signals from the process, equipment, or operators and generates output signals to control the process.
Automation style	A consistent approach to developing and deploying implementation modules ensuring reliable, maintainable automation across a facility.
Exception handling	Functions that handle plant or process contingencies and other events occurring outside normal or desired operating behavior.

Model Hierarchy Terms

Term	Definition
Device	Lowest level in the Physical Model — individual field devices serving as inputs or outputs to the BPCS (sensors, actuators, valves).
Equipment	Physical Model level consisting of actual hardware components including field devices and process equipment.
Unit	A collection of equipment that performs a specific production function (e.g., a distillation column assembly).
Enterprise	The highest Physical Model level — one or more industrial sites integrated under a unified operational framework.
Lifecycle instance	The work processes involved in automating procedures for a single project, from design through commissioning and operation.

Specification and Design Terms

Term	Definition
FRS	Functional Requirements Specification — lists detailed operational requirements defining what the system must accomplish, not how.
DDS	Detailed Design Specification — demonstrates how the control system operates and satisfies performance criteria defined in the FRS.
Control specification	Lowest level in the procedure specification model — corresponds directly to the device level in the Physical Model.
Implementation module	The developed and deployed outcome resulting from implementing procedural requirements within a BPCS.
HMI	Human Machine Interface — collection of hardware and software allowing operators to monitor and interact with the control system and industrial process.

Alarm and Control Terms

Term	Definition
Alarm	Audible, visible, or both means of indicating to the operator a process equipment malfunction, process deviation, or abnormal condition requiring a timely response.
Alert	An indication that alerts the operator to equipment malfunctions or process conditions requiring attention — may have longer response time than an alarm.
Alarm response procedure	Guidance for responding to an alarm, including specific operator actions required.
Basic control	Control dedicated to establishing and maintaining a specific behavior of the process.
Critical operation	Functions that have a high impact on safety, environment, utilization, or availability of the process if not properly executed.

Key Abbreviations

Abbreviation	Meaning
BPCS	Basic Process Control System
DCS	Distributed Control System
DDS	Detailed Design Specification
FAT	Factory Acceptance Test
FRS	Functional Requirements Specification
HMI	Human Machine Interface
IAT	Internal Acceptance Test
MOC	Management of Change
P&ID	Piping and Instrumentation Diagram
SAT	Site Acceptance Test
SBC	State-Based Control
SIS	Safety Instrumented System
SqBC	Sequence-Based Control
SOP	Standard Operating Procedure
URS	User Requirements Specification