Utility station automated design system and method

Abstract

A system and method provide a computer-based automated tool for quickly and efficiently designing utility stations. One example of such a utility station is a unit substation. The tool includes a database of user-selective predrawn symbols that are associated with a pre-defined and stored station template. Each of the respective symbols have associated therewith attributes that are computer recognizable as being attributes associated with the respective symbols, and may be combined into a list, when the symbols are selected for use with the station. The tool presents a graphical rendering of the symbols arranged on the station, after the respective symbols have been identified.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is related to, and claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 128,560 (Attorney Docket 7910-0032-13 PROV), filed Apr. 9, 1999, entitled “Utility Station Automated Design System and Method,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention pertains to automated design systems and methods for planning and designing utility stations. More particularly, the present invention relates to automated design systems, methods and computer program product, for designing, and estimating materials and costs for utility stations, such as a unit substation or other component of a public utility system, such as an electric power generation, transmission and distribution system. [0004] 2. Discussion of the Background [0005] In 1999, a typical unit substation design and development proje...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The system significantly reduces design time from months to hours, minimizes errors, and standardizes designs, allowing for efficient and reliable production of construction sets and cost estimates, while facilitating easier interpretation and execution by contractors.

Problems solved by technology

In 1999, a typical unit substation design and development project costs approximately 1 million dollars and takes roughly one year from conception to completion.

This detail may become very cumbersome because a unit substation may have between two and three hundred electrical connectors.

Generally, it is a time consuming process for the engineer to scrutinize the different components on the drawing and list the same on a materials list.

As recognized by the present inventors, the iterative process between the engineer and the draftsperson is a time consuming process, and an expensive procedure for designing substations.

Another limitation with the conventional practice, is that the iterative design process is prone to error, based on the number of different people involved in the process.

Furthermore, because each substation is custom designed, it is more difficult for planning departments, as well as contractors who will build the substation to interpret the drawings because each set of construction plans differs from one substation to the next.

Images