Solutions for operator training, process simulation and logic validation
VP Link

Solutions for operator training, process simulation and logic validation

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Features
Applications
Advantages
Completed projects
FAQs
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Industry leaders in training solutions and control system testing.

Worked with

100+

companies

Accumulated

30+

years of experience

Completed

>1K

projects

Advantages of VP Link

VP Link has been used for Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), control system logic validation, automated SIS proof testing and  operator training since 1990 and is continuously improved to include the latest simulation and testing technology.

The VP Link OTS (Operator Training Simulator) allows operators to train in a realistic virtual plant environment, removing the need for on-site presence, reducing risk and improving operator competence.

VP Link is control system agnostic, supporting ICSS, DCS, PLC and SIS checkout projects independently of the underlying control system. Our experienced engineers can also develop customised simulation models for various industries.

Industries we serve

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Chemicals

Major petrochemical and chemical processing facilities use our products.

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Oil and gas

We help our clients operate offshore and onshore oil & gas assets globally.

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Others

Our solutions are also used in aerospace, food and beverage industries, life sciences, mining, power and renewables.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) model training and testing

VP Link's unique simulation and multi-system integration capabilities support the training, testing and deployment of machine learning algorithms for advanced operations-focused solutions.

With connectivity to multiple platforms, VP Link integrates directly with AI models, enhancing process simulation and control. The combination of X and Y delivers adaptive control and deep reinforcement learning for real-world operations.

Our offering

Operator Training
Simulation (OTS)
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  • Customised operator training
  • Offline plant schematics
  • Performance monitoring and evaluation
  • Built-in malfunctions, scenarios, instructor variables and analytics engine
  • Pre start-up functional process model

View training brochure

Logic
testing
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  • Connect to offline control systems
  • Real-time virtual process feedback
  • Various control and safety system support
  • Flexible communication options
  • Seamless integration with corporate applications
AI training
and optimisation
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  • Feedback and predictions using defined variables/limits
  • Control Horizon: calculate future control trajectories
  • Continuous learning and predictive insight.
VP Link
Test Compiler Module
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  • Advanced logic validation tool
  • Unattended, repeatable tests
  • Automatically generate validation documentation during execution
Rockwell Automation
Compute Module (RACM)
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  • Wood Group's In-house Software Development Kit (SDK) supporting Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Compute Module
  • Flexible adoption with a multi-language wrapper
  • Enhances communication with RACM
Virtual
Reality (VR)
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  • Boosts training engagement and knowledge retention through immersive learning
  • Safe learning environment
  • Realistic tailored trainee simulations
  • Reduced onboarding times
  • Accelerates competency development

Effective solutions for all your operator training and testing needs.

Train operators and test control logic safely before startup

VP Link provides advanced process simulation capabilities, and when combined with Wood’s extensive engineering expertise, enables the delivery of a complete end‑to‑end solution.

VP Link training
We offer a short training to help your team get the most out of VP Link. It typically runs for 2–3 days and is designed for control engineers and training supervisors. Training can be delivered online or on-site.

Control system automated validation
Compliance with today’s stricter regulations and standards is critical. Our team has the expertise and technological resources to achieve this goal.

Factory acceptance testing
A streamlined VP Link testing interface speeds up the testing process. It integrates I/O from various platforms into a unique VP Database, providing engineers with access to process variables via a common graphic interface. A simple loop model can be developed in hours, automating process feedback during FAT.

Turnkey model deployment:

VP Link models are used primarily for operator training and must be realistic enough in order to train operators on normal operating conditions as well as on process upsets and emergency responses.

We have delivered plant-wide training solutions in various industries, for the most demanding processes. We offer comprehensive Operator Training solutions for a LOT less than a traditional approach to process modeling, owing to our cost-effective hybrid approach to modeling.

Additionally, VP Link allows for process/snapshot restore functionalities that simplify interlock schedule approval.

How it's applied

VP Link provides process dynamics in real time to an offline control system. While executing 'the loop', the controllers (whether physical or emulated) are performing their application-specific sequencing; be it interlock logic, PID, regulatory functions or any advanced control strategies configured for the target plant.

VP Link is non-invasive, ie, itdoes not modify the control application, easy to install in ~ 1 hour for a Factory Acceptance Test setup and allows for a true collaborative testing framework through its robust client/server architecture.

Logic testing with VP Link can be performed: prior to start-up, during staging or on a scheduled shutdown. VP Link can also be used for management of change requirements, using a spare controller and operator workstation as a development node.

A streamlined VP Link testing interface can be created to speed up the testing process.

VP Link easily integrates I/O from various platforms in a unique VP Database, giving engineers access to process variables throughout the staging floor, using a common graphic interface. Furthermore, process snapshot / restore functionalities facilitate the interlock schedule approval and other repetitive validation tasks.

VP Link and Virtuoso

VP Link provides a dynamic representation of a chemical process that can be hooked up to an offline copy of the control system. VP Link reads the control system outputs and calculates the virtual process state by using hybrid process modelling.

VP Link also connects to Virtuoso® systems for integrated dynamic simulation models, inclusive of production wells, flowlines/pipelines, subsea and topsides processing facilities and controls.

Virtuoso® solutions offer a variety of operational and commercial functionalities, addressing the most complex single and multiphase gathering, production, transportation, and processing issues.

Meet Virtuoso

Completed projects

Additional details

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Expertise
Simulation, learning and virtual systems
Wood offers an experience team in deploying advanced simulation and e-learning technology for oil & gas, refining, processing and manufacturing industries
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Integration opportunities

Rockwell Automation

ControlLogix, AADvance, A-B PLC5/SLC500, Trusted, PlantPAx

ABB

Mod300, 800xa, Industrial IT

Emerson

Delta V, ProVOX

GE Fanuc

Series 90, RX3I, RX7I

HIMA
Honeywell

Experion PKS , TDC, TPS, FSC, Safety Manager, Plantscape

Valmet

D/3

Schneider Electric

Triconex – Tricon/Trident; Foxboro – I/A, Archestra; InFusion; Modicon – Quantum, Unity, M340, M580

Siemens

Ti 505 Serial or Ethernet, APACS, PCS7, S7

CODESYS
Yokogawa

Centum VP, CS3000, ProSafe/RS

Woodward

NetSim NVE

Open Process Automation

(OPA) Controllers

AI (Artificial Intelligence)

AI (Artificial Intelligence) Agents

PLCs
Sensors and beacons

Or hardware signals to any processor and I/O

Or emulation within VP Link using regulatory control blocks

Need help with operator training and control system testing solutions? We are experts!

Common questions

Connect with our team

Emma Behjat
Technical Business Development Manager
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