Automatic pipe arrangement method for jacketed pipe system based on PDMS software

Abstract

The invention relates to a PDMS software-based jacketed pipe system automatic pipe distribution method, which comprises the following steps of: realizing automatic correspondence of nominal diameters of an inner pipe and an outer pipe through a built-in caliber matching table, and creating a type set template of a jacketed flange, a valve mapping element and an eccentric reducing pipe compensation element; under the full jacket scene, the program reads the number of jacket flanges, the number of outer pipe branch pipes needing to be created is calculated, and the head and the tail of each branch pipe are associated to outer pipe welding face coordinates of the flanges respectively; the number and the length of the outer pipes needing to be laid on each straight pipe section of the inner pipe are calculated by capturing the actual length of the straight pipe section of the inner pipe through automatic pipe laying of the outer pipes of the half jacketed pipe system; a jumper pipe arrangement form is planned through a program, and automatic pipe arrangement is achieved through model preparation, rule definition, automatic generation and verification optimization; and finally, dynamically checking the integrity of the jumper pipe by the program. The problem that in three-dimensional engineering design, the design efficiency is low due to the fact that the modeling complexity of the jacketed pipe is improved in automatic pipe arrangement of the jacketed outer pipe and the jumper pipe is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an engineering design technology, and more particularly to an embedded tool based on the operating environment of AVEVA's process piping design software (PDMS / E3D, i.e., Plant Design Management System / Engineering 3D). Background Technology

[0002] Jacketed pipes, as a special double-layer pipe structure, are mainly used to heat, insulate or cool the medium transported inside the pipe. According to the connection form between the inner and outer pipes, they can be divided into the type with concealed inner pipe weld (full jacket) and the type with exposed inner pipe weld (semi-jacket). Currently, conventional 3D design methods for building jacketed piping system models have significant limitations: designers must first arrange the inner pipes (process medium transmission pipelines). For fully jacketed piping systems, the inner pipes must be segmented using jacket flanges or valve elements, and then the outer pipes (heat tracing pipelines) must be arranged between adjacent segments. For semi-jacketed piping systems, pipe caps or end plates must be used as the start and end points of the outer pipes, and the outer pipes must be arranged in segments based on the direction of the inner pipes. Finally, adjacent outer pipe segments are connected by jumpers to ensure the continuity of heat tracing medium transmission. The entire process is cumbersome and complex, places stringent requirements on spatial management of piping layout, and relies on customized backend database support, resulting in low design efficiency.

[0003] The core of jacketed pipe design lies in the "cooperative relationship between the inner and outer pipes," which directly contributes to the complexity of structural modeling, specifically in the following aspects: The challenge of achieving concentricity and gap control: The annular gap between the inner and outer pipes is typically small (5-20mm), and concentricity along the entire length must be ensured (excessive deviation can lead to uneven medium flow, localized overheating or undercooling). Precise control of the alignment of their axes is required during modeling, but actual pipelines have manufacturing tolerances (such as straightness deviations in straight pipes and curvature deviations in bends), which must be included in the modeling parameters, increasing the difficulty of model parameterization.

[0004] Modeling the compatibility of complex components: When connecting jacketed flanges, the positioning of the outer and inner flanges must be synchronized (such as bolt hole alignment and sealing surface matching). The spatial position of both needs to be constrained during modeling. When bridging jacketed valves, the connection loss problem is likely to occur because the inner and outer pipes belong to independent piping systems.

[0005] Challenges of spatial layout and interference inspection: Jacketed pipes are often laid in dense pipe corridors or around equipment, requiring coordination of spatial positions with other pipes, equipment, steel structures, etc. Modeling must simultaneously consider the outer diameter dimensions of the inner and outer pipes, as well as the maintenance space in the annular area (such as reserving inspection channels), demanding extremely high spatial positioning accuracy. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the issue of low design efficiency in automated piping layout of jacketed outer pipes and crossover pipes in 3D engineering design due to the complexity of jacketed pipe modeling, an automated piping layout method based on PDMS software is proposed. This method is applicable to engineering design in industrial fields requiring precise fluid temperature control, such as chemical, petroleum, pharmaceutical, food, and chemical fiber industries.

[0007] The technical solution of this invention is as follows: An automated piping layout method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software involves inserting a program into the PDMS software. This program automatically creates the jacketed outer pipe and jumper pipes based on the jacket scheme, inner pipe laying, and preset process design parameters. The steps include the following: Step 1. Inner and outer pipe diameter matching table: The diameter matching table is written into the program, and the corresponding outer pipe diameter is captured in the matching table according to the actual diameter of the inner pipe, thereby realizing the definition of the nominal diameter when the outer pipe is automatically laid out. Step 2. Modular Customization Unit for Grade Library in Fully Jacketed Piping Environment: Step 2.1 Referencing the template for the jacketed flange This program customizes a set of types based on the standard jacketed flange and generates a text format file through the Dblist function of the PDMS software. The project administrator can directly reference it into the project grade library through the program's grade library configuration window. Step 2.2 Referencing the template of the jacketed valve mapping element During the automatic pipe laying process of the cross-connector, based on the positioning of the jacketed valve, a mapping element without a physical shape is generated and placed in the outer pipe system. The orientation of all its connection points corresponds one-to-one with the jacketed valve, and the original correlation on the jacketed valve is transferred to the mapping element. To achieve the above operation, the project administrator can automatically add a set of mapping element types for the jacketed valve through the program's level library configuration window and directly reference it in the project level library. Step 2.3 Referencing the template for the concentricity compensation element of the eccentric reducer During the automatic pipe laying process of the jacketed outer pipe, whenever an eccentric reducer element is captured, the difference in center elevation at the outlets of the two reducers is immediately calculated, and a Union compensation element is automatically added to the outer pipe to correct the eccentricity. The project administrator can generate a set of Union compensation elements with parameterizable Design Parameter through the program's grade library configuration window and directly reference them in the project grade library. During program execution, the program iterates through, captures, and selects Union compensation elements with corresponding diameters based on the outlet diameter of the medium. The eccentricity calculated based on the actual model is read and assigned to the Design Parameter of this Union compensation element to achieve the effect of automatic leveling and correction. Step 3. Automated pipe laying unit based on inner pipe laying: The automatic pipe laying technology unit in the jacketed piping system environment automatically generates an outer pipe model that meets design specifications and process requirements through preset parameters, rule base and algorithm; Automated external pipe laying for fully jacketed piping systems: In a fully jacketed piping system environment, the starting and ending points of each external pipe segment are welded to the flange end face of the jacket flange. Based on the three-dimensional model of the inner pipe, the program will read the number of jacket flanges, calculate the number of external pipe branches to be created, and associate the beginning and end of each branch segment with the coordinates of the external pipe welding surface of the flange. The number of external pipe branches, the medium flow direction at the beginning and end of each branch segment, the positioning coordinates, and the diameter size are clearly defined. The program also uses the built-in compilation language PML in the PDMS software to compile the name of each pipeline according to the branch sequence number increment principle and create it in the design tree list. Once the external piping system framework is built, the program will trace the coordinates, material codes, and inlet / outlet diameters of the fittings in the internal piping system and create the corresponding type of fittings in the external piping system framework. The program records the matching relationship of the bending radius of the inner and outer pipe elbows in the standard with the same material code and writes it into the project level library to ensure that the outer pipe elbows created during automatic pipe laying meet the standard requirements. The program sets the requirement of the outer end misalignment of the inner and outer pipe reducer components in the standard to a fixed constant to ensure that the outer pipe reducer and the inner pipe reducer created during automatic pipe laying always maintain a reasonable offset at the large end. Automated pipe laying for semi-jacketed piping systems: The program clearly defines the important parameters that designers need to preset, which are known quantities in the built-in calculation formula. Combined with the actual length of the inner pipe straight section captured by the PDMS software compilation language PML as the variable of the built-in calculation formula, the number and length of the outer pipe to be laid on each inner pipe straight section can be calculated. Step 4. Automatic pipe laying and integrity check unit for crossover pipes Step 4.1 Automatic pipe laying operation of the jumper pipe automatic pipe laying unit This program plans four types of jumper pipe arrangements for fully jacketed piping systems. The first two types are for jumpers at the jacketed flange assembly, and the latter two types are for jumpers at the jacketed valves. This program is designed for two types of crossover pipe arrangements in semi-jacketed piping systems: the first type is for crossovers on the same side, and the second type is for crossovers on opposite sides. The automated pipeline deployment process includes four stages: "model preparation → rule definition → automatic generation → verification and optimization". Model preparation: The jumper pipe belongs to the jacketed pipe outer pipe system, and its framework has been completed in the outer pipe automated piping unit; Rule definition: The various jumper configurations planned by the program clearly define the preset values ​​required for the installation of jumper pipes, which are stored in the built-in calculation unit of the control. Designers can fill in or select to define all parameters according to actual considerations. Automatic generation: The program will automatically run the calculation unit and complete the cross-connection model construction, including branch element creation; cross-connection head and tail association; pipe laying according to preset parameters; cross-connection attribute marking; during the automatic laying of cross-connections, it will automatically determine whether this path interferes with other elements; Verification and optimization: After the operation is completed, the rationality of the model is determined and prompts or error reports are generated to facilitate designers to correct parameters and re-lay out the pipes; Step 4.2 The cross-connector integrity check unit performs an integrity check. This program provides a dynamic check function for the integrity of crossover pipes, which captures and collects unconnected pipe segments under the target external piping system and generates a list to help designers quickly locate the pipe segments that need to be repaired. When designers execute the command to delete crossover pipes, the marking attributes of the external pipes are automatically cleared to zero, realizing dynamic verification.

[0008] Furthermore, in step 1, the parameters written in the program fully comply with the values ​​within the standard, and the designer has the authority to edit this background file. When the matching table of the project standard is inconsistent with the matching table of this standard, the designer can modify and save the new project parameters to meet the specific needs of the project.

[0009] Furthermore, in the automated piping layout of the semi-jacketed piping system, this program defaults to using welded pipe caps as the head and tail sealing elements of the heat tracing medium outer pipe. The length of each outer pipe branch depends on the number of outer pipe sections planned by the designer and the length of the inner pipe straight section. In order to meet the design principle of exposed inner pipe welds, a welding space must be reserved between adjacent outer pipe branches. Unlike all inner pipe straight sections in the full-jacketed piping system, where pipe fittings are all wrapped by the outer pipe, the inner pipe fittings in the semi-jacketed piping system will not be covered by the outer pipe for the purpose of convenient weld inspection. Since the actual length of the inner pipe straight section cannot be divided equally by the preset parameters, the coordinate position of the end point of the inner pipe straight section is read, and the end point of the last item in the outer pipe section array is adjusted to a position that is a distance from the preset value of this coordinate. When the length of a straight pipe segment in the inner pipe is less than twice the preset welding space plus the preset outer pipe length, the IDcode of all such inner pipe segments is recorded and a list is generated. After the program finishes running, an auxiliary window will automatically pop up to display the list. Designers can track the pipe segments in the list, redefine the welding space in turn, and fix the problem. Only when all straight pipe segments under the inner pipe system level are greater than or equal to twice the preset welding space plus the preset outer pipe length will all outer pipe branch segments generate 3D models normally, and this auxiliary window will not pop up.

[0010] Furthermore, the automatic pipe laying technology unit utilizes preset parameters, rule bases, and algorithms, including: preset bridging methods (same-side or opposite-side bridging); preset bridging turning distances and offsets. Automatic pipe laying must adhere to these rules and a preset plan must be established. If any unreasonable aspects exist in the pipe laying according to these preset parameters, the software will automatically correct them to a more reasonable laying pattern. Its core is to transform the external pipe layout logic into program-recognizable "rules," achieving automated generation and verification.

[0011] Furthermore, in the rule definition of step 4.1, the program rules include a function to determine the order of adjacent jacket outer pipe sections in the direction of medium flow, so as to avoid the problem of sequence disorder caused by the designer's misoperation when selecting the start point and end point of the cross-connection; in the cross-connection optimization aspect of verification optimization, the undo and mirror functions are also added.

[0012] Furthermore, in step 4.2, the inspection unit works in conjunction with the automatic pipe laying unit for crossover pipes. After the layout of each crossover pipe model is completed, a "Jumped" tag attribute is embedded. At the same time, the "Jumped" tag attribute is also embedded in the jacket outer pipe to which the head and tail branch elements belong. Finally, all branch pipe segments under the outer pipe Pipe level are traversed to collect all untagged pipe segment elements.

[0013] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: The core value of an automated jacketed piping system layout method based on PDMS software lies in "efficiency improvement, accuracy assurance, and data collaboration." By transforming experience-based design into a standardized, parameterized process through digital tools, it significantly shortens the design cycle, improves forward design efficiency, ensures design quality stability, and lays the foundation for digital management throughout the project lifecycle. In industries with stringent requirements for jacketed pipes, such as chemical, petroleum, and pharmaceutical industries, automated piping layout has become a key technological means to improve design quality and reduce labor costs. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 is a flowchart of the jacketed piping system structure of the present invention, wherein (a) and (b) are a full-jacketed piping system and a half-jacketed piping system, respectively; Figure 2 is a reference diagram for the matching modeling of the present invention, where (a) and (b) are respectively HG / T20615 (Appendix B) and the caliber matching table - reference & modification; Figure 3 is a diagram of the template docking object of the present invention, where (a) and (b) are respectively the jacketed flange connection form and the concentricity deviation of the inner and outer pipes at the eccentric reducer. Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the automatic pipe laying process of the jacketed pipe system of the present invention, where (a), (b), (c), and (d) represent SH / T3040-2012 (7.2.3), the automatic pipe laying effect of the full jacketed pipe system (Phase I: initial state, Phase II: after automatic pipe laying), the preset parameter definition for the automatic pipe laying of the semi-jacketed pipe system, and the automatic pipe laying effect of the semi-jacketed pipe system (Phase I: initial state, Phase II: after automatic pipe laying), respectively. Figure 5 shows the results of automatic pipe laying of the jacketed pipe system of the present invention, where (a) and (b) are the full-jacketed pipe system crossover module and the half-jacketed pipe system crossover module, respectively. Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the cross-connection integrity check function for the automatic pipe laying result of the jacketed pipe system of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0015] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. These embodiments are based on the technical solution of the present invention and provide detailed implementation methods and specific operating procedures. However, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0016] This invention addresses the difficulties in laying out jacketed outer pipes and cross-connection pipes during the design process of PDMS process jacketed piping, as well as the cumbersome post-processing and continuity checks. By combining modular customization and collaboration with a backend database, it provides an automated piping layout function. Based on the jacketing scheme (full jacket or half jacket), the inner pipe laying, and preset process design parameters, this invention automatically creates the jacketed outer pipe and cross-connection pipes. Specifically, it includes the following steps: Step 1. Inner and outer pipe diameter matching table: Jacketed pipe is a specially designed double-layer pipe structure. Different nominal diameters of inner pipes have corresponding matching nominal diameters of outer pipes. This matching relationship is usually consistent with the port diameters of standard jacketed flanges. This design software writes the diameter matching table in HG / T20615 (Appendix B) into the program (PDMS does not have this matching table built in; when the program is used for the first time, the software will automatically generate a matching table in XLXS format and store it in the system's background database). Based on the actual diameter of the inner pipe, the software captures the corresponding outer pipe diameter in the matching table, thereby realizing the definition of the nominal diameter when automatically laying the outer pipe.

[0017] As shown in Figure 2(b): The parameters written in the program (the program refers to the program that inserts a custom file, which automatically generates a diameter matching table in XLSX format by linking to EXCEL and saves it in the background database for automatic pipe laying to read data. Based on the diameter of the inner pipe, the software can determine the outer pipe diameter that needs to be laid for this inner pipe diameter) completely follow the values ​​in the standard. The designer has the right to edit this background file. When the matching table of the project standard is inconsistent with the matching table of this standard, the designer can modify and save the new project parameters to meet the special needs of the project.

[0018] Step 2. Modular Customization Unit of Grade Library in Full Jacketed Piping Environment: (Note: Step 2 only describes the customization unit of grade library in full jacketed piping environment: the reason is that there is no need to customize grade library in semi-jacketed environment. The piping components required for semi-jacketed environment are all conventional components, and there are no jacketed flange components, jacketed valve mapping components, or eccentric reducer compensation components.) Step 2.1 Referencing the template for the jacketed flange For fully jacketed piping systems, the segmentation of process transmission pipelines (inner pipes) is achieved through jacketed flange elements. Unlike conventional pipe flanges, jacketed flanges have three connection end faces: the inner pipe welding face, the outer pipe welding face, and the flange connection face. The outer pipe welding face is a special connection form unique to jacketed flanges.

[0019] This program (referring to the insertion of a custom component template, which is saved in a background database as a txt file for easy identification by designers, and used to create a component library that meets project requirements) has customized a set of types for jacketed flanges based on the HG / T20615 standard. It has also generated a txt file that can be directly read and imported using the Dblist function (model export function, a built-in function of PDMS) of PDMS software (module PML1 conversion processing). The project administrator can directly reference it into the project level library through the program's level library configuration window.

[0020] Step 2.2 Referencing the template of the jacketed valve mapping element For fully jacketed piping systems, when a jumper is installed at a jacketed valve, the jacketed valve belongs to the inner piping system while the jumper belongs to the outer piping system. This results in the inability to establish connections between branches of the outer piping system. In the PDMS software environment, all branches within a single piping system must maintain continuity; otherwise, the single-pipe diagram cannot be generated correctly. The solution to this problem is to generate a mapping element without a physical form during the automatic jumper installation process, based on the location of the jacketed valve. This mapping element is placed within the outer piping system, with all its connection points corresponding one-to-one with the jacketed valve. The original associations on the jacketed valve are then transferred to the mapping element. To achieve this, the project administrator can automatically add a set of mapping element types for the jacketed valve and directly reference it in the project's level library through the program's level library configuration window (the program is an embedded custom space; designers can access this program's operation window in PDMS and use it directly). Step 2.3 Referencing the template for the concentricity compensation element of the eccentric reducer For fully jacketed piping systems, during the automated outer pipe laying process, when an eccentric reducer is detected in the inner pipe at a certain coordinate, an eccentric reducer for the outer pipe will be generated at this coordinate based on the inner and outer pipe diameter matching table (this function is implemented by the developed software; the improvement is that it eliminates the need for manual judgment and handling of inconsistent elevations at the eccentric reducer, automatically identifies the eccentric reducer and automatically performs the following concentricity compensation operation to ensure that the overall automated piping process is not interrupted. In manual modeling, the operation is executed step by step, while automated piping is a process of pre-setting scheme parameters and integrating steps, which cannot be stopped due to errors caused by a special scenario). Furthermore, the center elevation of the medium inlet must be consistent. This can lead to concentricity deviations in the center elevation of the medium outlet for eccentric reducers of different diameters, causing the straight pipe section at the outlet to be unable to align with the center of adjacent pipe fittings, resulting in the pipe section not being generated correctly.

[0021] The solution to this problem is to automatically add a Union compensation element to the outer pipe during the automatic pipe laying process of the jacketed outer pipe. Whenever an eccentric reducer element is detected, the difference in center elevation between the two reducer outlets is immediately calculated, and a Union compensation element is automatically added to the outer pipe to correct the eccentricity. The project administrator can generate a set of parameterizable Union compensation elements (Design Parameter) through the program's grade library configuration window and directly reference them in the project grade library (the project grade library is external to the software and stores data for all pipe fittings; during design, the required elements are retrieved from this library. This Union compensation element is bound to the eccentric reducer and is automatically retrieved only when an eccentric reducer exists). During program execution, the program iterates through, captures, and selects Union compensation elements corresponding to the media outlet diameter. Based on the actual model, the calculated eccentricity is read and assigned to the Design Parameter of this Union compensation element to achieve automatic leveling and correction.

[0022] Step 3. Automated pipe laying unit based on inner pipe laying: Automated pipe laying for fully jacketed piping systems In a fully jacketed piping system, the starting and ending points of each outer pipe segment are welded to the flange end face of the jacketed flange. Based on the 3D model of the inner pipe, the program reads the number of jacketed flanges, calculates the number of outer pipe branches to be created, and associates the beginning and end of each branch segment with the coordinates of the outer pipe welding surface of the flange. The number of outer pipe branches, the medium flow direction at the beginning and end of each branch segment, the positioning coordinates, and the diameter can be clearly defined. The program then uses the built-in compilation language PML in the PDMS software to compile the name of each pipeline according to the incremental branch sequence number, creating it in the design tree list. The program kernel execution steps are as follows: a. Get the current number of jacketed flanges on the inner pipe (!Nf =<Coll all Flan for !CorePipe> Size) b. Extract the starting point coordinates of the current inner tube (!PosA =<Coll all Tubi for !CorePipe> (Apos) c. Extract the coordinates of the jacketed flange welding surface (!PosB =<Coll all Flan for !CorePipe> .P3pos) d. Extract the starting diameter of the current inner tube (!BoreA =<Coll all Tubi for !CorePipe> .Hbore) e. Extract the weld face diameter of the jacketed flange (!BoreB =<Coll all Flan for !CorePipe> .P3bore) f. Extract the starting point of the inner tube and determine the direction of medium flow (!DirA =<Coll all Flan for !CorePipe> .Hdir) g. Extract the medium flow direction from the welded surface of the jacketed flange (!DirB =<Coll all Flan for !CorePipe> .P3dir) h. Create external branch pipes in a loop (number of times Nf), setting their start point, end point, diameter, flow direction and other attributes. Except for the first external branch pipe whose starting attribute is assigned based on the internal pipe's starting point information, subsequent branch pipes are assigned values ​​sequentially according to the flange welding surface attributes until the loop ends.

[0023] After the external piping system framework is built, the program will trace the coordinates, material codes, and inlet / outlet diameters of the fittings (elbows, reducers, tees) in the internal pipes and create the corresponding types of fittings (fully enclosed) in the external piping system framework. Figure 4(a) shows the description of the jacketed fitting structure in the SH / T3040-2012 Petrochemical Pipeline Accompanying Pipe and Jacketed Pipe Design Specification. The program records the matching relationship of the bending radius of the inner and outer pipe elbows in the SH / T3040-2012 standard (which serves as a general technical standard for jacketed piping systems) using the same material code (STYP) and writes it into the project level library (an external library used to store data for all pipes and fittings). This ensures that the outer pipe elbows created during automatic pipe laying meet the standard requirements. The program sets the requirement of a minimum 50mm offset at the large end of the inner and outer pipe reducer components in the SH / T3040-2012 standard as a fixed constant to ensure that the outer and inner pipe reducers created during automatic pipe laying always maintain a 50mm offset at their large ends (along the medium flow direction). The program kernel operation steps are as follows: a. Obtain the current inner pipe fitting coordinates (!Pos =<Coll all Fitt for !CorePipe> .P0pos) b. Get the fitting type of the current inner tube (!Type =<Coll all Fitt for !CorePipe> .Type) c. Set the reducer offset constant (medium flow direction) and calculate the eccentricity compensation (normal direction): !Spool and !Offset d. Capture the bending radius and angle of the inner pipe elbow and set the corresponding bending radius and angle of the outer pipe elbow. e. Capture the branch point outlet coordinates of the outer tube tee component (!P3pos =<Coll all Tee For !Jackpipe> .P3pos) f. Define the location to create the external pipe relationship framework, generate external pipe fittings at the center coordinate points of each fitting, and re-associate the external pipe start or end point at the tee branch with !P3pos. Figure 4(b) shows the effect of automatic pipe laying of the outer pipe of the full jacketed piping system. The red part is the automatically generated outer jacketed pipe (effect diagram), and the yellow part is the inner jacketed pipe. This coloring and blurring function is to visually distinguish the inner and outer pipes, making it easier for designers to check the accuracy of the interface. Without this technical solution, designers would not be able to distinguish the overlapping pipe structures, which would be detrimental to checking the accuracy. To improve the visual effect and distinguish the solid models of the inner and outer pipes, the program provides the function of coloring and blurring the outer pipe.

[0024] Automated pipe laying for semi-jacketed piping systems (Full-jacketed and semi-jacketed piping systems are two independent piping systems with different pipe structures and different technical solutions for achieving automated pipe laying, so they are introduced separately. The core difference is: full-jacketed (the weld is not exposed, that is, the inner pipe is completely wrapped), and semi-jacketed (the weld is exposed)). In a semi-jacketed piping system, the starting and ending points of each outer pipe section are typically in the form of welded caps or end plates. Welded caps are pre-made components, making procurement more convenient; therefore, this program defaults to using welded caps as the head and tail sealing elements for the heat tracing medium outer pipe. The length of each outer pipe branch depends on the number of outer pipe sections planned by the designer and the length of the inner pipe straight section. To meet the design principle of exposed inner pipe welds, a welding gap (usually not less than 100mm) must be reserved between adjacent outer pipe branches. Unlike all inner pipe straight sections in a full-jacketed piping system, where fittings are enclosed by the outer pipe, inner pipe fittings in a semi-jacketed piping system are not covered by the outer pipe for ease of weld inspection. Figure 4(c) clearly defines the important parameters that the designer needs to preset in the program. These parameters serve as known quantities in the built-in calculation formula. By combining the actual length of the inner pipe straight section captured by the PDMS software's PML compilation language as a variable in the built-in calculation formula, the number and length of outer pipes required for each inner pipe straight section can be calculated.

[0025] The kernel execution steps are as follows: a. Obtain the center coordinates of the straight pipe section of the inner tube (!Pos =<Coll all Tubi for !CorePipe> .P0pos) b. Capture the medium flow direction in the straight section of the inner pipe (!Dir =<Coll all Tubi for !CorePipe> .P0dir) c. Obtain the length of the straight section of the inner pipe (!Len =<Coll all Tubi for !CorePipe> .Length) d. Preset outer tube length and welding space: !Jacklen and !WeldGap e. Calculate the required number of external pipes to be laid: !Jnum = (!Len - !WeldGap) / (!Jacklen + !WeldGap) f. Loop (times ! Jnum) to create the outer branch pipe and set its start point, end point, diameter, flow direction, and other attributes. Because the actual length of the inner pipe straight section cannot be equally divided by the preset parameters (not a software issue, but a real-world scenario; for example, if the actual length of the inner pipe is 1500mm and the preset value is 1000mm, then the inner pipe can only be divided into one 1000m segment and one 500m segment, not two 1000mm segments; this explanation is too detailed, and there are many possible scenarios, so it doesn't need to be explained in detail. The purpose of this method is to solve problems in all situations to ensure the continuity of automatic pipe laying operations), the reserved welding space for the last outer pipe branch segment does not match the preset value. The solution to this problem is to read the endpoint coordinates of the inner pipe straight section and adjust the endpoint of the last item in the outer pipe segment array to a position that is a distance from the preset value of this coordinate (against the direction of medium flow).

[0026] If the length of a straight pipe segment within the inner pipe is less than twice the preset welding space plus the preset outer pipe length, the program defaults to determining that the outer pipe cannot be generated correctly at that location (similar to the problem with equal division mentioned above). The solution is to record the ID codes of all such inner pipe segments and generate a list. After the program finishes running, an auxiliary window will automatically pop up displaying these entries, allowing designers to track the segments in the list, redefine the welding space, and fix the problem. Only when all straight pipe segments under the inner pipe system level are greater than or equal to twice the preset welding space plus the preset outer pipe length will all outer pipe branch segments generate 3D models correctly, and this auxiliary window will not pop up. This subsequent processing and repair function eliminates the need for designers to manually measure pipe segment lengths and then rationally plan preset parameters.

[0027] Figure 4(d) shows the effect of automatic pipe laying of the outer pipe of the semi-jacketed pipe system. To improve the visual effect and distinguish the solid models of the inner and outer pipes, the program provides the function of coloring and blurring the outer pipe.

[0028] The automated pipe laying technology unit in a jacketed piping system environment automatically generates an outer pipe model that conforms to design specifications and process requirements by using preset parameters, a rule base, and algorithms (1. preset bridging methods: same-side bridging or opposite-side bridging; 2. preset bridging turning distance and offset; automated pipe laying cannot deviate from the rules and must preset a scheme (including key parameters of the pipe laying path). If there are unreasonable aspects, such as spatial collisions, the software will automatically correct them to a more reasonable laying form. This replaces traditional manual drawing, improving efficiency and reducing errors. Its core is to transform the layout logic of the outer pipe (such as spacing, slope, connection method, etc.) into "rules" that the program can recognize, achieving automated generation and verification.

[0029] Step 4. Automatic pipe laying and integrity check unit for crossover pipes Step 4.1 Automatic pipe laying operation of the jumper pipe automatic pipe laying unit Jumpers are crucial components in jacketed pipe systems, balancing the flow of media in the annulus and eliminating pressure or temperature differences. Their main functions are: connecting the annulus spaces of different jacketed pipe sections to form a media circulation path and prevent media stagnation within the annulus; balancing the pressure and temperature within the annulus to ensure uniform distribution of heating / cooling media; and for steam jacketed pipes, assisting in the removal of condensate from the annulus, reducing the risk of water hammer. In the PDMS software environment, all branch pipes within an independent Pipe system (referring to the parent level (highest level) of the piping system) must be interconnected; otherwise, the system defaults to determining that this piping system cannot generate a single-pipe diagram. Therefore, jumper path planning and modeling are key steps based on the completion of automatic piping layout of the outer jacket pipes.

[0030] The piping installation of jumpers must meet the following design requirements: avoid pipe supports, valves, instruments and other components to ensure maintenance space; the connection point with the jacketed pipe must avoid the weld seam of the inner pipe or the support point of the outer pipe; the pipe diameter should not be less than the equivalent flow diameter of the branch pipe annulus (usually 1 / 2 to 2 / 3 of the main jumper); it is usually connected to the top or upper side of the outer pipe of the jacketed pipe (to avoid the bottom liquid from directly entering the jumper and causing blockage).

[0031] As shown in Figure 5(a), this program plans four types of jumper pipe arrangements for the full jacketed piping system. The first two types are for jumpers at the jacketed flange group, and the latter two types are for jumpers at the jacketed valve.

[0032] As shown in Figure 5(b), this program plans two types of crossover pipe arrangements for semi-jacketed piping systems: the first type is for crossovers on the same side, and the second type is for crossovers on opposite sides. The automated pipeline deployment process includes four stages: "model preparation → rule definition → automatic generation → verification and optimization". Model preparation: The jumper pipe belongs to the jacketed pipe outer pipe system, and its framework has been completed in the outer pipe automated pipe laying unit.

[0033] Rule Definition: The program's various jumper configurations clearly define the preset values ​​required for jumper installation (1. Preset jumper method: same-side jumper or opposite-side jumper; 2. Preset jumper turning distance and offset. Automatic pipe laying cannot deviate from these rules; a preset scheme (including key parameters of the pipe laying path) must be established. If there are any unreasonable aspects, such as spatial collisions, the software will automatically correct them to a more reasonable laying method. These values ​​are stored in the built-in calculation unit of the control. Designers can manually fill in or select all parameters based on actual considerations (space management, design requirements). Furthermore, the program rules include a function to determine the order of adjacent jacket outer pipe sections in the direction of medium flow, to avoid sequence disorder caused by designers' misoperation when selecting the start and end points of jumpers.

[0034] Automatic Generation: The program will automatically run the calculation unit (based on the preset bridging type, bridging direction, offset distance, determining the number of turns required (i.e., the number of bends), the offset distance between bends, and the coordinates of the starting and ending points of the bridging pipe; based on the above key information parameters, the laying path of the bridging pipe can be determined) and complete the bridging pipe model building, including branch element creation; bridging pipe head and tail association; pipe laying according to preset parameters (path); and bridging attribute marking. During the automatic bridging pipe laying process, the program will automatically determine whether the path interferes with other elements; if interference is found, the program will stop and issue an error message.

[0035] Verification and optimization: After the run, the model's rationality is determined, such as whether the reserved welding space (A value) is sufficient; whether the bridging direction conflicts with the flow direction of the medium in the outer pipe, etc., and prompts or error reports are generated to facilitate designers to correct parameters and re-lay the pipes. Undo and mirror functions have also been added to the bridging pipe optimization.

[0036] The core of automated pipe routing is to transform empirical designs into quantifiable and repeatable automated processes through "parameterization + rule base". In complex working conditions, engineers still need to intervene and optimize based on their understanding of the process. It has the ability to adapt to general scenarios and improves design efficiency and accuracy.

[0037] Step 4.2 The cross-connector integrity check unit performs an integrity check. In actual pipeline design, jacketed outer piping systems are composed of multiple branch pipe sections. To ensure the continuity of heat tracing medium transmission, adjacent jacketed outer pipes need to be connected by jumpers. However, during the three-dimensional design process, it is easy to overlook jumpers. For example... Figure 6As shown, this program provides a dynamic check function for the integrity of crossovers. It can capture and collect uncrossed pipe segments under the target external piping system and generate a list, helping designers quickly locate the pipe segments that need to be repaired and avoiding the inefficient and easily overlooked segment-by-segment inspection method. This inspection unit works in conjunction with the automatic crossover routing unit. After each crossover model is laid out, a "Jumped" marker attribute is embedded. At the same time, the "Jumped" marker attribute is also embedded in the jacketed external pipe to which its head and tail branch elements belong. Finally, it traverses all branch pipe segments under the external pipe Pipe level (the parent level (i.e., the highest level) of the piping system) and collects all unmarked pipe segment elements. When the designer executes the command to delete the crossover, the marker attribute of the external pipe is automatically cleared to zero, realizing dynamic verification.

[0038] Key takeaway: A comprehensive model processing system that improves the accuracy and efficiency of model processing through the following core methods.

[0039] 1. Database hierarchy library-oriented organization and planning: Collaborative 3D design enables efficient management and retrieval of data related to jacketed piping systems. 2. Piping methods and processes and innovation in parametric modeling technology: The geometric dimensions and connection methods of jacketed pipes and related components (inner pipe, outer pipe, cross pipe, etc.) are digitally modeled, and these parameters are correlated to achieve parameter linkage and automatic adjustment.

[0040] 3. Automatic collision detection mechanism: It can automatically detect collisions between the jacketed pipe and other equipment, pipes, supports, etc., and issue early warnings or automatically adjust the pipe laying path.

[0041] 4. User interface and operation method: The unique user interface design facilitates users' input of parameters, setting of rules, and viewing and modification of pipe laying results.

[0042] 5. Adaptive and Optimization Function: The protection system automatically adjusts the piping layout according to different working conditions (such as complex pipeline routes, special media requirements, etc.) to perform adaptive optimization and enhance the adaptability to complex scenarios.

[0043] 6. Rule base and algorithm: Includes a rule base for design specifications and process requirements, as well as an automatic piping algorithm based on the rule base, to ensure that the piping process complies with standards and is efficient and feasible.

[0044] The above-described embodiments are merely one implementation of the present invention, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of this invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An automated piping layout method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software, characterized in that, Insert a program into the PDMS software. This program, based on the jacket scheme, inner pipe laying, and preset process design parameters, automatically creates the outer jacket pipe and jumper pipe. The steps include the following: Step 1. Inner and outer pipe diameter matching table: The diameter matching table is written into the program, and the corresponding outer pipe diameter is captured in the matching table according to the actual diameter of the inner pipe, thereby realizing the definition of the nominal diameter when the outer pipe is automatically laid out. Step 2. Modular Customization Unit for Grade Library in Fully Jacketed Piping Environment: Step 2.1 Referencing the template for the jacketed flange This program customizes a set of types based on the standard jacketed flange and generates a text format file through the Dblist function of the PDMS software. The project administrator can directly reference it into the project grade library through the program's grade library configuration window. Step 2.2 Referencing the template of the jacketed valve mapping element During the automatic pipe laying process of the cross-connector, based on the positioning of the jacketed valve, a mapping element without a physical shape is generated and placed in the outer pipe system. The orientation of all its connection points corresponds one-to-one with the jacketed valve, and the original correlation on the jacketed valve is transferred to the mapping element. To achieve the above operation, the project administrator can automatically add a set of mapping element types for the jacketed valve through the program's level library configuration window and directly reference it in the project level library. Step 2.3 Referencing the template for the concentricity compensation element of the eccentric reducer During the automatic pipe laying process of the jacketed outer pipe, whenever an eccentric reducer element is captured, the difference in center elevation at the outlets of the two reducers is immediately calculated, and a Union compensation element is automatically added to the outer pipe to correct the eccentricity. The project administrator can generate a set of Union compensation elements with parameterizable Design Parameter through the program's grade library configuration window and directly reference them in the project grade library. During program execution, the program iterates through, captures, and selects Union compensation elements with corresponding diameters based on the outlet diameter of the medium. The eccentricity calculated based on the actual model is read and assigned to the Design Parameter of this Union compensation element to achieve the effect of automatic leveling and correction. Step 3. Automated pipe laying unit based on inner pipe laying: The automatic pipe laying technology unit in the jacketed piping system environment automatically generates an outer pipe model that meets design specifications and process requirements through preset parameters, rule base and algorithm; Automated external pipe laying for fully jacketed piping systems: In a fully jacketed piping system environment, the starting and ending points of each external pipe segment are welded to the flange end face of the jacket flange. Based on the three-dimensional model of the inner pipe, the program will read the number of jacket flanges, calculate the number of external pipe branches to be created, and associate the beginning and end of each branch segment with the coordinates of the external pipe welding surface of the flange. The number of external pipe branches, the medium flow direction at the beginning and end of each branch segment, the positioning coordinates, and the diameter size are clearly defined. The program also uses the built-in compilation language PML in the PDMS software to compile the name of each pipeline according to the branch sequence number increment principle and create it in the design tree list. Once the external piping system framework is built, the program will trace the coordinates, material codes, and inlet / outlet diameters of the fittings in the internal piping system and create the corresponding type of fittings in the external piping system framework. The program records the matching relationship of the bending radius of the inner and outer pipe elbows in the standard with the same material code and writes it into the project level library to ensure that the outer pipe elbows created during automatic pipe laying meet the standard requirements. The program sets the requirement of the outer end misalignment of the inner and outer pipe reducer components in the standard to a fixed constant to ensure that the outer pipe reducer and the inner pipe reducer created during automatic pipe laying always maintain a reasonable offset at the large end. Automated pipe laying for semi-jacketed piping systems: The program clearly defines the important parameters that designers need to preset, which are known quantities in the built-in calculation formula. Combined with the actual length of the inner pipe straight section captured by the PDMS software compilation language PML as the variable of the built-in calculation formula, the number and length of the outer pipe to be laid on each inner pipe straight section can be calculated. Step 4. Automatic pipe laying and integrity check unit for crossover pipes Step 4.1 Automatic pipe laying operation of the jumper pipe automatic pipe laying unit This program plans four types of jumper pipe arrangements for fully jacketed piping systems. The first two types are for jumpers at the jacketed flange assembly, and the latter two types are for jumpers at the jacketed valves. This program is designed for two types of crossover pipe arrangements in semi-jacketed piping systems: the first type is for crossovers on the same side, and the second type is for crossovers on opposite sides. The automated pipeline deployment process includes four stages: "model preparation → rule definition → automatic generation → verification and optimization". Model preparation: The jumper pipe belongs to the jacketed pipe outer pipe system, and its framework has been completed in the outer pipe automated piping unit; Rule definition: The various jumper configurations planned by the program clearly define the preset values ​​required for the installation of jumper pipes, which are stored in the built-in calculation unit of the control. Designers can fill in or select to define all parameters according to actual considerations. Automatic generation: The program will automatically run the calculation unit and complete the cross-pipe model construction, including the creation of branch elements; Connect the beginning and end of the jumper; lay the pipe according to preset parameters; mark the jumper attribute; during the automatic laying of the jumper, it will automatically determine whether this path interferes with other components; Verification and optimization: After the operation is completed, the rationality of the model is determined and prompts or error reports are generated to facilitate designers to correct parameters and re-lay out the pipes; Step 4.2 The cross-connector integrity check unit performs an integrity check. This program provides a dynamic check function for the integrity of crossover pipes, which captures and collects unconnected pipe segments under the target external piping system and generates a list to help designers quickly locate the pipe segments that need to be repaired. When designers execute the command to delete crossover pipes, the marking attributes of the external pipes are automatically cleared to zero, realizing dynamic verification.

2. The automated pipe laying method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step 1, the parameters written in the program strictly follow the values ​​within the standard, and the designer has the authority to edit this backend file. When the matching table of the project standard is inconsistent with the matching table of this standard, the designer can modify and save the new project parameters to meet the specific needs of the project.

3. The automated pipe laying method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the automated piping layout of the semi-jacketed piping system, this program defaults to using welded pipe caps as the head and tail sealing elements of the heat tracing medium outer pipe. The length of each outer pipe branch depends on the number of outer pipe sections and the length of the inner pipe straight sections planned by the designer. In order to meet the design principle of exposed inner pipe welds, a welding space must be reserved between adjacent outer pipe branches. Unlike all inner pipe straight sections in the full-jacketed piping system, where pipe fittings are all wrapped by the outer pipe, the inner pipe fittings in the semi-jacketed piping system will not be covered by the outer pipe for the purpose of convenient weld inspection. Since the actual length of the inner pipe straight section cannot be divided equally by the preset parameters, the coordinate position of the end point of the inner pipe straight section is read, and the end point of the last item in the outer pipe section array is adjusted to a position that is a distance from the preset value of this coordinate. When the length of a straight pipe segment in the inner pipe is less than twice the preset welding space plus the preset outer pipe length, the IDcode of all such inner pipe segments is recorded and a list is generated. After the program finishes running, an auxiliary window will automatically pop up to display the list. Designers can track the pipe segments in the list, redefine the welding space in turn, and fix the problem. Only when all straight pipe segments under the inner pipe system level are greater than or equal to twice the preset welding space plus the preset outer pipe length will all outer pipe branch segments generate 3D models normally, and this auxiliary window will not pop up.

4. The automated pipe laying method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic pipe laying technology unit utilizes preset parameters, rule bases, and algorithms, including: preset bridging methods (same-side or opposite-side bridging); preset bridging turning distances and offsets. Automatic pipe laying must adhere to the rules and must be based on a preset scheme. If any unreasonable aspects exist in the pipe laying, the software will automatically correct them to a more reasonable laying pattern. Its core is to transform the layout logic of external pipes into "rules" that the program can recognize, thereby achieving automated generation and verification.

5. The automated pipe laying method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the rule definition of step 4.1, the program rules include a function to determine the order of adjacent jacket outer pipe sections in the direction of medium flow, so as to avoid the problem of sequence disorder caused by the designer's misoperation when selecting the start point and end point of the cross-connection; in the cross-connection optimization aspect of verification and optimization, the undo and mirror functions are also added.

6. The automated pipe laying method for jacketed piping systems based on PDMS software according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step 4.2, the inspection unit works in conjunction with the automatic pipe laying unit for crossover pipes. After the layout of each crossover pipe model is completed, a "Jumped" tag attribute is embedded. At the same time, the "Jumped" tag attribute is also embedded in the jacket outer pipe to which the head and tail branch elements belong. Finally, all branch pipe segments under the outer pipe Pipe level are traversed to collect all unmarked pipe segment elements.

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