Application of Nano-Satellites constellation in the refinery mega projects implementation

<p>The purpose of this article is to provide scalable solutions based on new technologies in the field of refinery mega projects. Correcting defective structures and providing a new model and mechanism for completing projects in comprehensive and optimal manner may be conducted in terms of time, cost and quality of implementation. To this end, 156 effective factors in delaying Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) projects using field research are identified. Then, based on the knowledge and experience of the project managers and experts in each field, and analyzing their views using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, the most effective factors in project deferrals are identified. Also, the main factors of excess costs in EPC are extracted. According to surveys, lake of the following factors lead to project deferrals: real-time communication, integrated information network platform, common and up-to-date databases, online status equipment and sensors, and up-to-date information and regular reports. In many cases, these delays and corresponding surplus costs are so high that they compromise the economic justification of the project in terms of inflation. To solve these problems, the proposed method captures the required information from each refinery segment using sensors and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags mounted on the units and areas and client computers deployed in each refinery segment using Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The information is then transferred to central sites and data centers via Nano-satellite platforms. The received information is classified into databases and processed by software packages such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and finally are made accessible for other units. The study also includes the validation of Nano-satellite communications as the core of the proposed solution using Satellite Tool Kit (STK) software. Then the information is processed by business intelligence techniques and the required consultations are provided at three strategic levels: 1) for senior holding managers for decision making at tactical level, 2) for mid-level managers, and 3) at operational level for workshop managers to make the right decision at the right time. Achievements of implementing this solution includes systematic project execution, characterization of project components and executing company processes from start to the end while minimizing the project time and overhead costs, and selecting the best vendors and materials.</p>