Layout design automation system

Abstract

To reduce the workload of a designer.SOLUTION: A layout design automation system generates routing for connection between a start point and an end point. The layout design automation system includes a storage unit and a route generation unit. The route generation unit generates routing of piping, instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks and air-conditioning ducts, based on layout space information, layout-dedicated space information, existing structure information, operation / maintenance information, and design information indicating piping arrangement design conditions, instrumentation piping arrangement design conditions, electrical conduit arrangement design conditions, cable rack arrangement design conditions, and air-conditioning duct arrangement design conditions.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a layout design automation system. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a technology that automates the design work of piping routes in plants, etc. When designing the layout of piping routes in plants, etc., it is necessary to proceed with the layout design of piping routes while satisfying numerous constraints specified in required specifications, safety standards, etc., from the planning stage to the detailed design stage.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology for automatically generating a piping route that connects the start point and end point of a pipe in layout space information while satisfying numerous constraints. Patent Document 1 also describes a system that satisfies numerous constraints to proceed with a piping layout plan. Patent Document 1 also describes technologies for generating not only piping routes, but also supports that support the piping route, valves that control internal fluids, and aggregation of generated structures. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-86310 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, when planning the layout of a plant or the like, it is necessary to comprehensively consider the layout of numerous pieces of equipment, including not only piping that carries fluids (gas, liquid, etc.), but also instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. Therefore, even if the system described in Patent Document 1 is used, designers still need to manually design the layout of instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc., as in the past. Therefore, the functions of the layout design automation system described in Patent Document 1 alone cannot be said to be sufficient, and the workload on designers is still large.

[0006] The present invention has been made in light of the above-mentioned circumstances, and has as its object to reduce the workload of designers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A layout design automation system according to an embodiment for solving the above-described problems is a layout design automation system that generates a route connecting a start point and an end point. The layout design automation system includes a storage unit and a route generation unit. The storage unit stores layout space information, layout-dedicated space information, existing structure information, operation and maintenance information, and design information indicating piping layout design conditions, instrumentation piping layout design conditions, electrical conduit layout design conditions, cable rack layout design conditions, and air conditioning duct layout design conditions. The route generation unit generates routes for piping, instrumentation piping, electrical conduit, cable rack, and air conditioning duct based on the layout space information, layout-dedicated space information, existing structure information, operation and maintenance information, and design information indicating piping layout design conditions, instrumentation piping layout design conditions, electrical conduit layout design conditions, cable rack layout design conditions, and air conditioning duct layout design conditions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of a layout design automation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 3]10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining generation of drain lines and vent lines by the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart for explaining a method of outputting data to a structural analysis system and feeding back analysis results in the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart for explaining generation of an instrumentation piping route by the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart for explaining generation of a conduit route by the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart for explaining generation of a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a method for generating a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram for explaining generation of a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram for explaining generation of a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram for explaining generation of a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a diagram for explaining generation of a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram for explaining generation of a cable rack route by the layout design automation system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart for explaining generation of an air conditioning duct route by the layout design automation system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Embodiment 1) A layout design automation system according to an embodiment can be used to automatically design routes for pipes carrying fluids (gases, liquids, etc.), instrumentation pipes, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, and the like in plant facilities and buildings. Here, a case where the layout design automation system is used in the layout design of plant facilities will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The layout design automation system is a design system that generates routes connecting fluid (gases, liquids, etc.) pipes, instrumentation pipes, electrical conduits, cable racks, and air conditioning ducts by specifying their start and end points in the layout design. Here, instrumentation pipes refer to pipes that house cables for transmitting information on measurement results such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate, and cables for transmitting signals for controlling the system, or pipes that guide the fluids (gases, liquids, etc.) to be measured to meters. Electrical conduits refer to pipes that house cables for transmitting electrical power.

[0010] The layout design automation system is physically a computer equipped with a CPU, memory, etc. The layout design automation system operates based on layout design application software stored in the memory.

[0011] 1 is a functional configuration diagram of a layout design automation system 1. The layout design automation system 1 includes an input unit 10, an automation processing unit 20, an output unit 30, and an external output unit 40.

[0012] The input unit 10 is composed of a touch panel, keyboard, etc. The designer can use the input unit 10 to select whether to design piping, instrumentation piping, electrical conduit, cable rack, or air conditioning duct. The input unit 10 displays 3D CAD information of the building on the touch panel screen and acquires coordinate information of the start and end points as specified by the designer. The coordinate information can also be acquired by the designer inputting coordinate values.

[0013] The input unit 10 also displays a list of fluid types and weights, pipe materials, pipe diameters, and cable rack and air conditioning duct sizes on the touch panel screen, and acquires this information as specified by the designer. When there are multiple routes, the input unit 10 acquires a priority order that determines which route should be prioritized for placement as specified by the designer. The input unit 10 stores the specified priority order as an additional condition to each design condition stored in the storage unit 21. The input unit 10 can also import 3D CAD information of routes, support structures, and components as placement space information 21a by inputting data in an output format such as a general-purpose CAD. The input unit 10 can also import data output by the structural analysis system 100 as each design condition stored in the storage unit 21.

[0014] The automation processing unit 20 includes a storage unit 21, a route generation unit 22, a part generation unit 23, a support position generation unit 24, a support structure generation unit 25, and a material quantity calculation unit 26.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a diagram for explaining a storage unit according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, storage unit 21 stores layout space information 21a, layout-dedicated space information 21b, existing structure information 21c, operation and maintenance information 21d, and design information indicating piping layout design conditions 21e, instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f, electrical conduit layout design conditions 21g, cable rack layout design conditions 21h, and air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i.

[0016] The layout space information 21a is 3D CAD information that indicates the structure of a building including equipment. The layout-only space information 21b is 3D CAD information that indicates the area in a building where piping and the like are to be placed. The existing structure information 21c is 3D CAD information that indicates the position of existing indoor structures. In the following description, the building structures such as the ceiling, floor, and walls are referred to as the skeleton, and structures other than the building such as piping and equipment are referred to as indoor structures. The skeleton and indoor structures may be collectively referred to as the structure.

[0017] The operation and maintenance information 21d is information that indicates the conditions for placement suitable for maintenance and inspection of instruments that require visual inspection, and the conditions for placement suitable for operating parts that require operation. Instruments that require visual inspection include flow meters, pressure gauges, etc. Parts that require operation include valves such as manual valves. The operation and maintenance information 21d includes conditions such as the height of instruments that are easy for maintenance personnel to see, the height and orientation of valve handles that are easy for maintenance personnel to operate, and the distance between instruments and valves, etc. and walls. The operation and maintenance information 21d also includes information on prohibited placement areas. Prohibited placement areas include areas where the placement of pipes, etc. is prohibited, such as near passageways or storage areas for hazardous materials, and areas necessary for maintenance work on valves, etc.

[0018] The piping layout design conditions 21e are information indicating the design conditions for piping layout design. Specifically, the piping layout design conditions 21e include piping attribute definitions, distances between piping and ceilings, floors, and walls, distances between parallel piping, diameters and types of through-holes when through-holes are provided through the building structure (ceilings, floors, and walls), conditions specifying the location of through-holes in areas with high radiation doses in the case of nuclear power plants, selection of bent pipes for piping, length of straight pipes (straight sections of piping) before and after instruments and orifices, construction tolerances, piping gradients, distances from other equipment, and conditions for centralized placement in the case of multiple pipes. A bent pipe is a component obtained by bending a straight pipe. The piping layout design conditions 21e also include separation conditions for safety systems. The safety system separation condition is, for example, a condition that, in the case where an accident occurs in the first system piping route, the first system piping route and the second system piping route are configured to be switched to a second system piping route, and the first system piping route and the second system piping route are arranged separated by a wall or the like. This information is set according to the type of fluid to be passed through the piping, etc. Furthermore, the piping layout design condition 21e includes design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of an experienced designer.

[0019] The instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f are information indicating the design conditions for the instrumentation piping layout design. Specifically, the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f include conditions such as instrumentation piping attribute definitions, the distance between the instrumentation piping and the ceiling, floor, or wall, the distance between parallel instrumentation piping, the selection of bent pipes for the instrumentation piping, the diameter and type of through-holes when through-holes are provided through the building structure, construction tolerances, the gradient of the instrumentation piping, the distance to other equipment, and the up-and-down generation position. An up-and-down route is a combination of a route that descends at a specified gradient angle and a route that ascends from a low position to a specified height. The up-and-down generation position condition specifies the position and direction of the route to ascend in order to minimize the number of up-and-down locations. Furthermore, the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f include design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of experienced designers.

[0020] The conduit layout design conditions 21g are information indicating design conditions for the conduit layout design. Specifically, the conduit layout design conditions 21g include conditions such as conduit attribute definition, pull box layout definition, distance between the conduit and the ceiling / floor / wall, distance between parallel conduits, selection of bent conduits for the conduit, diameter of the through hole when a through hole is provided when passing through the building frame, through hole type, construction error, distance from other equipment, etc. The conduit layout design conditions 21g also include design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of experienced designers.

[0021] The cable rack layout design conditions 21h are information indicating design conditions for cable rack layout design. Specifically, the cable rack layout design conditions 21h include conditions such as cable rack attribute definitions, distances between the cable rack and the ceiling, floor, and wall, diameters of through holes when through holes are provided when passing through the building frame, through hole types, construction errors, distances to other equipment, etc. The cable rack layout design conditions 21h also include design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of experienced designers.

[0022] The air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i are information indicating design conditions for air conditioning duct layout design. Specifically, the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i include conditions such as air conditioning duct attribute definitions, duct size selection conditions, distances between the air conditioning duct and the ceiling, floor, and wall, distances between parallel ducts, diameters of through holes when through holes are provided when passing through the building frame, through hole types, construction errors, distances to other equipment, and placement of dampers and air intake and exhaust ports. The air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i also include design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of experienced designers.

[0023] Returning to FIG. 1 , the route generation unit 22 generates routes for piping, instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, and air conditioning ducts based on design information indicating layout space information 21a, layout-dedicated space information 21b, existing structure information 21c, operation and maintenance information 21d, and piping layout design conditions 21e, instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f, electrical conduit layout design conditions 21g, cable rack layout design conditions 21h, and air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i. For example, when multiple end points are specified for one start point from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates optimal branch positions along the route based on the information in the storage unit 21 and generates routes connecting to each end point. Furthermore, the route generation unit 22 can generate routes that pass through the interior of a building's skeleton, such as walls, based on instructions from the input unit 10. In this case, the route generation unit 22 generates three-dimensional information indicating a route that passes through the interior of the skeleton as internal information of the three-dimensional information indicating the building's skeleton. Furthermore, the route generation unit 22 generates a route that passes through designated structures based on the conditions specified from the input unit 10. Furthermore, if the layout space information 21a includes a skeleton that is angled with respect to the coordinate axes, the route generation unit 22 generates a route that follows the angled skeleton. An angled skeleton is a curved ceiling, wall, staircase, or the like. Furthermore, if the length or number of bends of the route can be reduced by creating a route that is angled with respect to the coordinate axes, the route generation unit 22 generates a route that is angled with respect to the coordinate axes.

[0024] The part generation unit 23 automatically recognizes and generates positions of parts included in the route, such as instruments, valves, specialties, flanges, couplings, electrical pull boxes, and air conditioning duct dampers, within the range specified by the input unit 10, for the route generated by the route generation unit 22, that satisfy the conditions of visibility, operability, and placement of the specified parts.

[0025] The part generation unit 23 has a function of placing the generated parts on the route generated by the route generation unit 22. The part generation unit 23 places the generated parts at positions that satisfy the design conditions. For example, when generating a flange, the part generation unit 23 selects a gasket to be attached to the flange that satisfies the conditions of the flange type, the internal fluid of the piping, pressure, and temperature, and places the selected gasket at the flange placement position.

[0026] The support position generation unit 24 determines support positions at which support members supporting the pipe are placed based on the constant pitch span method (also known as the standard support spacing method). The support position generation unit 24 determines support positions at which support members supporting the pipe are placed based on the weight of the pipe, the weight of the fluid passing through the pipe, and the like. For example, the support position generation unit 24 determines support positions so as to support areas near load-concentrated portions, such as the start point, end point, bends, and branches of the pipe, and determines support positions using the constant pitch span method based on a standard span (the distance between a support position and an adjacent support position) previously set for straight pipe sections and bent pipe sections. Furthermore, when multiple piping routes generated by the route generation unit 22 are adjacent to each other or when the pipes run parallel to each other, the support position generation unit 24 determines, as support positions, positions at which two or more pipes among the multiple pipes can be supported by one support position. The support positions generated by the support position generation unit 24 can be moved, deleted, or have their constraint conditions changed by specifying them via the input unit 10.

[0027] The support position generation unit 24 can designate two locations on the route generated by the route generation unit 22 from the input unit 10, and set the route between them as a support installation unavailability range. If a support installation unavailability range is set, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions in a range excluding the support installation unavailability range when generating support positions based on the constant pitch span method.

[0028] Furthermore, the support structure generation unit 25 determines the support members based on the locations where the support members are fixed, as determined by the support position generation unit 24. The support structure generation unit 25 determines the support members based on the fixing locations (ceiling, floor, wall, etc.), the number of pipes to be supported, the weight of the pipes and the fluid passing through the pipes, etc. Furthermore, after generating the support structure, if different support members are generated at each support position, the support structure generation unit 25 can unify the support members by specifying them through the input unit 10. Specifically, for example, if equal-leg angle irons of different sizes are placed, they can be unified into equal-leg angle irons of the same size. Furthermore, if channel steel or square steel is mixed, the steel material type can be changed and unified into the same steel material type.

[0029] The quantity tallying unit 26 tally the number of each component determined by the route generating unit 22, the component generating unit 23, and the support structure generating unit 25. The quantity tallying unit 26 also tally the number of each type of arranged route, support structure, instrument, valve, flange, coupling, etc., and creates a quantity table.

[0030] The output unit 30 is configured with a display or a printing device. The output unit 30 displays 3D CAD images of the route and support members generated by the route generation unit 22 and the support position generation unit 24. The output unit 30 also displays 3D CAD images of the structures generated by the part generation unit 23 and the support structure generation unit 25. The output unit 30 also outputs a material quantity table compiled by the material quantity compilation unit 26.

[0031] The external output unit 40 can convert the route generated by the route generation unit 22, the support structure generated by the support structure generation unit 25, and the parts generated by the part generation unit 23 into a format that can be used in a general-purpose CAD or the like, and output the converted data. The external output unit 40 can output, as a format for a general-purpose CAD or the like, CAD data that includes a lot of information such as a 3D CAD shape, 3D CAD attributes, and 3D CAD library, or lightweight CAD data that includes only a 3D CAD shape and 3D CAD attributes.

[0032] The structural analysis system 100 is a system that performs durability analysis against thermal stress, analysis of pipe vibration caused by the passage of fluid, and strength evaluation such as earthquake resistance analysis. For example, in a durability analysis against thermal stress using the structural analysis system 100, the environmental temperature and the temperature of the fluid passing through the pipe are changed from the maximum temperature to the minimum temperature specified in the specifications, and an analysis can be performed to determine whether the thermal expansion or contraction of the pipe causes a load exceeding the standard value. Depending on the straight pipe length, bend positions, and support position generation status of the piping route, thermal expansion of the pipe due to the heat of the fluid may cause the internal stress of the pipe to exceed the standard value. In this case, the piping route and support positions must be reconsidered.

[0033] The layout design automation system 1 can output data generated by the layout design automation system 1 to the structural analysis system 100 via the external output unit 40. In addition, the layout design automation system 1 can import the analysis results analyzed by the structural analysis system 100 from the input unit 10, and import them into the storage unit 21 as design conditions.

[0034] As described above, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can perform layout design not only for piping that carries fluids (gas, liquid, etc.), but also for instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc., by storing a plurality of design conditions in the storage unit 21. This can reduce the workload of designers.

[0035] Furthermore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can perform layout design not only for piping that carries fluids (gas, liquid, etc.), but also for instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc., so there is no need for designers to manually perform layout design for instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. Therefore, the quality of the layout design including instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. is not affected by the technical level of the designer, and therefore design quality can be improved.

[0036] (Embodiment 2) In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the layout design automation system 1 executes layout design for piping through which a fluid (gas, liquid, etc.) passes.

[0037] The route generation unit 22 generates a piping route based on the piping layout design conditions 21e, assuming that a piping layout design is specified from the input unit 10 and that straight pipes are selected for straight sections and elbow members are selected for bent sections. An elbow member is a member that constitutes a bent section of a piping. An elbow member is a member that connects straight pipes and is used to change the angle or gradient of a piping. The route generation unit 22 can also generate a piping route that employs bent pipes to reduce the number of elbow members and piping welds.

[0038] The gradient angle of a pipe may be specified as a design condition. If the gradient angle of a straight route of a pipe connecting a start point and an end point does not satisfy the gradient angle specified in the design condition, the route generation unit 22 generates a route that satisfies the design condition by forming ups and downs. An up-and-down refers to a combination of a route that descends at a predetermined gradient angle and a route that ascends from a low position to a predetermined height. When generating a route with ups and downs based on the gradient angle specification, the route generation unit 22 generates a route that minimizes the number of ups and downs in the generated route.

[0039] If the piping route includes ups and downs, the piping route will have vertical irregularities. If fluid accumulates in this recess, a piping route is required to drain the accumulated fluid. Figure 3 shows an example of generating a route to drain fluid accumulated in the recess. In Figure 3, the main pipe P1 is indicated by a bold line. Here, the main pipe P1 is assumed to be a pipe that carries water. As shown in Figure 3, the main pipe P1 has a recess that is recessed in the -Z axis direction. The drain line P3 is a route to drain water accumulated in the recess. The vent line P2 is a route to take in air necessary for draining the fluid. The funnel P5 is a device that collects wastewater from the piping and equipment within the power plant. In Figure 3, a manual valve is indicated by P4.

[0040] When a recess occurs due to an up-and-down movement of the main pipe P1 as shown in Figure 3, the part generation unit 23 generates a vent line P2 connected to a nearby funnel P5 on the straight pipe at the highest position of the piping route, and a drain line P3 connected to the nearby funnel P5 on the straight pipe at the lowest position, and places a manual valve P4 midway along the vent line and drain line routes.

[0041] If the pipe diameter conditions are not input, the route generation unit 22 generates a route with the same diameter. The route generation unit 22 sets the length of the pipe to a predetermined length based on the transportation and construction conditions of the piping route, so there will be locations where pipes need to be connected. The route generation unit 22 inputs the transportation and construction conditions of the piping route from the memory unit 21 or the input unit 10, and determines the locations where the pipes need to be connected.

[0042] The part generation unit 23 generates a reducing T or a reducer at the connection position of the pipes based on the connection conditions of the pipes. Alternatively, the part generation unit 23 generates a coupling, which is a welded joint that connects pipes according to the diameters, at the connection position of the pipes.

[0043] In layout design automation system 1, route generation unit 22 generates a piping route, part generation unit 23 generates necessary parts including valves on the route, support position generation unit 24 determines support positions for arranging support members that support the piping, and outputs 3D CAD information as analysis data from external output unit 40 to structural analysis system 100. Structural analysis system 100 performs strength evaluation (confirmation in terms of material mechanics) of the piping based on the piping route and support conditions generated by layout design automation system 1. For example, structural analysis system 100 can perform analyses such as durability analysis against thermal stress, vibration analysis of piping caused by the passage of fluid, and earthquake resistance analysis.

[0044] The layout design automation system 1 receives analysis results such as durability analysis against thermal stress, vibration analysis of piping caused by the passage of fluid, and earthquake resistance analysis by the structural analysis system 100 via the input unit 10, and stores them in the storage unit 21 as additional information on the design conditions of the piping route. As a result, the conditions indicated by the piping layout design conditions 21e and the like are modified or added. Then, the layout design automation system 1 generates a new piping route based on the information in the storage unit 21 to which information on the analysis results by the structural analysis system 100 has been added.

[0045] Furthermore, the support position generating unit 24 generates new support positions based on information from the storage unit 21 that receives feedback of the analysis results from the structural analysis system 100 .

[0046] 4 shows a flowchart of outputting analysis data from the layout design automation system 1 to the structural analysis system 100, and feeding back the analysis results from the structural analysis system 100 to the layout design automation system 1. First, the route generation unit 22 generates a route, and the component generation unit 23 generates components (step A01). Next, the support position generation unit 24 sets a range where support installation is not possible (step A02). Next, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions based on a standard span (step A03). Next, support positions are added in a random arrangement (step A04).

[0047] Next, the layout design automation system 1 outputs the three-dimensional CAD information as analysis data from the external output unit 40 to the structural analysis system 100 (step A05). The structural analysis system 100 reads this analysis data and executes analysis (step A06).

[0048] The layout design automation system 1 extracts the analysis results via the input unit 10 (step A07). The layout design automation system 1 stores the extracted analysis results in the storage unit 21 as additional information.

[0049] The structural analysis system 100 repeats steps A03 to A07 a specified number of times (N times) by changing the support positions and support structures, extracts N analysis results, and creates a list of those results (step A08). The layout design automation system 1 selects a final route that will become the design result from the list of results based on the manufacturing costs, construction costs, construction time, safety, etc. of the piping route and support structures (step A09). The layout design automation system 1 outputs the selected route and a summary table of the parts used for that route to the output unit 30 (step A10).

[0050] The support structure generating unit 25 also generates a support structure based on the piping arrangement standard information, detailed design information, etc. to which the analysis results of the structural analysis system 100 have been added or corrected.

[0051] By accumulating information on the analysis results from the structural analysis system 100 as design conditions, the design quality of the layout design automation system 1 improves. As the design quality of the layout design automation system 1 improves, the scope of work that needs to be reviewed by a highly skilled designer is reduced. This reduces the workload on the designer.

[0052] In the above description, steps A03 to A07 are repeated N times. In another embodiment, steps A01 to A07 may be repeated N times by changing the route, support position, support structure, etc.

[0053] (Embodiment 3) In the third embodiment, a case will be described in which the layout design automation system 1 performs layout design for instrumentation piping. Here, the case will be described in which the instrumentation piping is piping for guiding a fluid (gas, liquid, etc.) to be measured from a main piping to a meter.

[0054] When the designer specifies the layout design of the instrumentation piping from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrumentation piping route based on the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f, assuming that straight pipes will be selected for straight sections and bent pipes will be selected for curved sections.

[0055] When the designer specifies the layout design of the instrumentation piping from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates a route of the instrumentation piping so that the route has a downward gradient (inclination angle) that satisfies the design conditions. Furthermore, when generating an instrumentation piping route in which multiple routes are arranged in parallel vertically and horizontally, the route generation unit 22 generates the instrumentation piping route so that the gradient angles of each route are the same.

[0056] Furthermore, if a straight-line route connecting the start point and the end point does not satisfy the gradient angle specified in the design conditions, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrumentation piping route that satisfies the design conditions by forming ups and downs. An up-and-down route is a combination of a route that descends at a predetermined gradient angle and a route that ascends from a low position to a predetermined height. When generating an instrumentation piping route with ups and downs based on the gradient angle specification, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrumentation piping route that minimizes the number of ups and downs in the generated route. Furthermore, if an instrumentation piping concentration area is set in the layout space information 21a, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrumentation piping route that passes through the instrumentation piping concentration area.

[0057] When the route generation unit 22 generates an instrumentation piping route including ups and downs, the part generation unit 23 generates a vent valve in the up section and a drain valve in the down section based on the internal fluid and pressure conditions. The part generation unit 23 also selects and generates connection joints based on the diameter, material, and fluid temperature of the instrumentation interface. An instrumentation interface is a pipe that connects to an instrument or a connection between an instrument and a main pipe. If the straight pipe section of the instrumentation piping route exceeds a certain length, the part generation unit 23 generates couplings at regular intervals. If the instrumentation piping route has more than a certain number of consecutive bends, the part generation unit 23 generates welded joints at the bends at regular intervals.

[0058] When the designer specifies the design of the instrumentation piping route from the input unit 10, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the instrumentation piping, its seismic class, and its positional relationship with the building frame.

[0059] 5 is an example of a flowchart for generating an instrumentation piping route. First, a designer specifies a design for an instrumentation piping route from the input unit 10 (step I01). The route generation unit 22 acquires the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f from the storage unit 21 (step I02). Next, the route generation unit 22 sets routing conditions based on the conditions specified from the input unit 10 and the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f (step I03). After that, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrumentation piping route that satisfies the design conditions (step I04).

[0060] Next, the route generation unit 22 determines whether the generated instrumentation piping route satisfies the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f (step I05). For example, the gradient of the instrumentation piping associated with the route specified by the designer via the input unit 10 may not satisfy the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f. Also, if a straight line route is taken from the specified start point to the end point, the gradient angle condition specified in the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f may not be satisfied. If the gradient does not satisfy the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f (step I05: No), the route generation unit 22 generates an up-and-down path based on the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f (step I06).

[0061] Next, the part generation unit 23 generates parts required for the instrumentation piping (step I07). The part generation unit 23 places the generated parts in positions that satisfy the conditions of visibility, operability, and placement. The part generation unit 23 can also place parts specified from the input unit 10 in a range specified from the input unit 10.

[0062] Next, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions based on the standard span (step I08). This standard span is stored in advance in the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f according to the weight, seismic resistance class, etc. of the instrumentation piping. Alternatively, the standard span can be specified from the input unit 10.

[0063] Next, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the instrumentation piping, the seismic class, the positional relationship with the building frame, etc. (Step I09). This support structure is stored in advance in the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f according to the weight of the instrumentation piping, the seismic class, the positional relationship with the building frame, etc.

[0064] As described above, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate instrumentation piping routes and supports that satisfy the instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21f, eliminating the need for a designer to manually perform the layout design of the instrumentation piping routes. Therefore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the workload of the designer. Furthermore, because the quality of the layout design of the instrumentation piping routes is not affected by the technical level of the designer, the design quality can be improved.

[0065] (Embodiment 4) In the fourth embodiment, a case will be described in which the layout design automation system 1 carries out the layout design of electric conduits.

[0066] When a designer specifies a piping design for a conduit from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates a conduit route based on the conduit layout design conditions 21g, on the premise that straight pipes will be selected for straight sections and bent pipes will be selected for curved sections. Furthermore, the component generation unit 23 generates pull boxes at branching and penetration sections of the route generated by the route generation unit 22, based on the conduit layout design conditions 21g.

[0067] Furthermore, when the designer specifies the layout design of the electrical conduit from the input unit 10, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the electrical conduit, its seismic class, and its positional relationship with the building frame.

[0068] 6 is an example of a flowchart for generating a conduit route. First, the designer specifies a design for the conduit route from the input unit 10 (step E01). The route generation unit 22 acquires the conduit layout design conditions 21g from the storage unit 21 (step E02). Next, the route generation unit 22 sets routing conditions based on the conditions specified from the input unit 10 and the conduit layout design conditions 21g (step E03). Then, the route generation unit 22 generates a conduit route that satisfies the design conditions (step E04).

[0069] After the route generation is completed, the component generation unit 23 generates a pull box (Step E05). The placement conditions of the pull box are stored in advance in the conduit placement design conditions 21g.

[0070] Next, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions based on the standard span (step E06). This standard span is stored in advance in the conduit arrangement design conditions 21g according to the weight, seismic resistance class, etc. of the conduit. Alternatively, the standard span can be specified from the input unit 10.

[0071] Next, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the conduit, the seismic class, the positional relationship with the skeleton, etc. (Step E07). This support structure is stored in advance in the conduit placement design conditions 21g according to the weight of the conduit, the seismic class, the positional relationship with the skeleton, etc.

[0072] As described above, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate conduit routes and supports that satisfy the conduit layout design conditions 21g, eliminating the need for a designer to manually perform the layout design of the conduit route. Therefore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the workload of the designer. Furthermore, since the quality of the layout design of the conduit route is not affected by the technical level of the designer, the design quality can be improved.

[0073] (Embodiment 5) In the fifth embodiment, a case will be described in which the layout design automation system 1 carries out the layout design of a cable rack.

[0074] When a designer specifies a cable rack layout design from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates a cable rack route based on the cable rack layout design conditions 21h, assuming that a rectangular box-shaped structure will be used as the cable rack.

[0075] The route generation unit 22 checks whether the conditions for the space factor of the cables in one level of the cable rack can be met by inputting the capacity of the cables to be loaded from the input unit 10. If the specified value of the space factor is exceeded, the route generation unit 22 generates a route using multiple levels of cable racks.

[0076] The route generating unit 22 determines the placement position of the cable rack based on the generated cable route. If a cable rack is already placed in the space where the cable rack is to be placed, the route generating unit 22 generates a route above or below the existing cable rack.

[0077] When a designer specifies a cable rack layout design from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates a route so that the upper surface of the cable rack always faces upward in the portion where the route is arranged horizontally. This is because cables are loaded and stored inside a cable rack that is open at the top.

[0078] The support structure generating unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the cable rack, the seismic resistance class, the shape of the cable rack, and the positional relationship with the building frame.

[0079] 7 is an example of a flowchart for generating a cable rack route. First, the designer specifies a cable rack route design from the input unit 10 (step K01). Next, the route generation unit 22 acquires the cable rack layout design conditions 21h from the storage unit 21 (step K02). Next, the route generation unit 22 sets routing conditions based on the conditions specified from the input unit 10 and the cable rack layout design conditions 21h (step K03). Then, the route generation unit 22 generates a cable rack route that satisfies the design conditions (step K04).

[0080] In step K04, a route is generated so that the upper surface of the cable rack always faces upward. Details of step K04 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 8. First, the route generation unit 22 arranges node points at regular intervals when generating a route for the cable rack (step K41). Then, the route generation unit 22 generates a network connecting the node points (step K42). The node points and the network will be explained with reference to FIG. 9. In FIG. 9, node points are indicated by circles. The lines connecting the node points form the network. For example, when the start point K23 and the end point K24 are specified, the route generation unit 22 generates a route L1 connecting the node points K23, K25, K26, K27, and K24.

[0081] However, when generating a route for a cable rack, if a route L1 that follows the network shown in Fig. 9 is generated, the upper surface of the rectangular cable rack may be placed so as to face the X-axis direction between node points K27 and K24 in Fig. 9, as shown in Fig. 10. In order to accommodate cables inside the cable rack, it is necessary to place the rectangular cable rack so that its upper surface faces upward (+Z direction).

[0082] Therefore, as shown in Figure 11, each node point K is divided into an xz node point Ka and a yz node point Kb (step K43). For example, node point K22 is divided into an xz node point K22a and a yz node point K22b. Next, the x and z directions of each xz node point Ka are connected to generate an xz network Kxz (step K44). Next, the y and z directions of each yz node point Kb are connected to generate a yz network Kyz (step K45). In this network, a condition is added that prohibits vertical (Z-axis) routes and horizontal (X-axis or Y-axis) routes of different networks from being continuous (step K46).

[0083] For example, in the node points and network shown in FIG. 12, if the starting point is (1) and the ending point is (12), the route generation unit 22 may generate a route that passes through the node points (1), (3), (5), (6), and (12) in this order in the process up to step K42. The route from (3), (5), and (6) passes through the xz network, and the route from (6) to (12) passes through the yz network. In this case, passing through the vertical route ((5) → (6)) and the horizontal route ((6) → (12)) corresponds to a continuation of a vertical route and a horizontal route in different networks. Therefore, by performing the process of step K46, this route is excluded from the route candidates.

[0084] Next, assume that the route generation unit 22 generates a route that passes through the node points (1), (3), (4), (6), and (12) in the order shown in Figure 12. In this case, passing from the vertical route ((3) → (4)) to the horizontal route ((4) → (6)) does not constitute a continuation of a vertical route and a horizontal route in different networks. Therefore, by performing the processing of step K46, this route is not excluded from the route candidates.

[0085] By performing a series of processes shown in Fig. 8 (processing of step K04), the route generation unit 22 generates (step K47) a route L2 shown in Fig. 13 (a route passing through node points K23, K25, K28, K27, and K24 shown in Fig. 9). By performing the process of step K04, the route generation unit 22 generates a route in which the upper face of the rectangular cable rack faces upward (in the +Z-axis direction), as shown in Fig. 13.

[0086] Returning to Fig. 7, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions based on the standard span (step K05). This standard span is stored in advance in the cable rack layout design conditions 21h according to the weight, seismic resistance class, etc. of the cable rack. The standard span can also be specified from the input unit 10.

[0087] Next, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight, seismic class, shape of the cable rack, positional relationship with the building frame, etc. of the cable rack (step K06). This support structure is stored in advance in the cable rack layout design conditions 21h according to the weight, seismic class, shape of the cable rack, positional relationship with the building frame, etc.

[0088] As described above, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate routes and supports that satisfy the design conditions of a cable rack, eliminating the need for a designer to manually perform layout design of a cable rack route. Therefore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the workload of the designer. Furthermore, since the quality of the layout design of a cable rack route is not affected by the technical level of the designer, it is possible to improve the design quality.

[0089] (Embodiment 6) In the sixth embodiment, a case will be described in which the layout design automation system 1 carries out layout design of air conditioning ducts.

[0090] When a designer specifies an air conditioning duct layout design from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates an air conditioning duct route based on the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i, assuming that a rectangular box-shaped structure will be used as the air conditioning duct. When an air volume is input from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 selects a duct size based on the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i. Furthermore, when a radiation shielding requirement condition is input from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 selects a radiation shielding duct type. Furthermore, when a negative pressure management requirement is input from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 selects a negative pressure management duct type.

[0091] The part generation unit 23 generates a reducer at a position specified by the input unit 10. When a reducer has been generated, the route generation unit 22 generates a route of a different duct size downstream of the generation position.

[0092] 14 is an example of a flowchart for generating an air conditioning duct route. First, the designer specifies the design of the air conditioning duct route from the input unit 10 (step D01). The route generation unit 22 acquires the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i from the storage unit 21 (step D02). Then, the route generation unit 22 sets routing conditions based on the conditions specified from the input unit 10 and the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i (step D03). Then, the route generation unit 22 generates an air conditioning duct route that satisfies the design conditions (step D04).

[0093] Next, the part generation unit 23 generates parts required for the air conditioning duct (such as air outlets, air inlets, dampers, and duct-mounted instruments) (step D05). The part generation unit 23 places the generated parts in positions that satisfy the conditions of visibility, operability, and placement. The part generation unit 23 can also place parts specified from the input unit 10 within a range specified from the input unit 10.

[0094] Next, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions based on the standard span (step D06). This standard span is stored in advance in the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i according to the weight, seismic resistance class, etc. of the air conditioning duct. The standard span can also be specified from the input unit 10.

[0095] Next, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the air conditioning duct, its seismic class, its positional relationship with the building frame, etc. (Step D07). This support structure is stored in advance in the air conditioning duct layout design conditions 21i according to the weight of the air conditioning duct, its seismic class, its positional relationship with the building frame, etc.

[0096] As described above, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate air conditioning duct routes and supports that satisfy the design conditions of the air conditioning ducts, eliminating the need for a designer to manually design the layout of the air conditioning duct routes. Therefore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the workload of the designer. Furthermore, because the quality of the layout design of the air conditioning ducts is not affected by the technical level of the designer, it is possible to improve the design quality.

[0097] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments may be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions and their equivalents as set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1. Layout design automation system 10...Input section 20...Automated processing unit 21...Storage section 21a…location space information 21b…Placement space information 21c... Existing structure information 21d...Operation and Maintenance Information 21e…Piping layout design conditions 21f…Instrumentation piping layout design conditions 21g…Conduit layout design conditions 21h…Cable rack layout design conditions 21i...Air conditioning duct layout design conditions 22... Route generation section 23...Part generation unit 24...Support position generation unit 25...Support structure generation unit 26...Quantity Collection Department 30...Output section 40...External output section 100...Structural analysis system P1...Main pipe P2...vent line P3: Drain line P4...Manual valve P5…Funnel

Claims

1. A layout design automation system that generates a route connecting a start point and an end point, a storage unit that stores design information indicating layout space information, layout dedicated space information, existing structure information, operation and maintenance information, and piping layout design conditions, instrumentation piping layout design conditions, electrical conduit layout design conditions, cable rack layout design conditions, and air conditioning duct layout design conditions; a route generation unit that generates routes for piping, instrumentation piping, electrical conduits, cable racks, and air conditioning ducts based on the placement space information, the placement-dedicated space information, the existing structure information, the operation and maintenance information, and design information indicating the piping layout design conditions, the instrumentation piping layout design conditions, the electrical conduit layout design conditions, the cable rack layout design conditions, and the air conditioning duct layout design conditions; A layout design automation system having the above.

2. a component generation unit that automatically recognizes and generates positions of components included in the route of instruments, valves, specialties, flanges, couplings, electrical pull boxes, and air conditioning duct dampers within a range specified by an input unit for the route generated by the route generation unit, satisfying conditions for visibility, operability, and placement of the specified components; a support structure generating unit that generates a support structure that supports the route based on the weight of the route and its positional relationship with the building frame; an external output unit that outputs information related to the route generated by the route generation unit, the component generated by the component generation unit, and the support structure generated by the support structure generation unit to a general-purpose CAD; 2. The layout design automation system according to claim 1, comprising:

3. an input unit that acquires analysis results from a structural analysis system that performs strength analysis based on the route, support positions, and parts generated by the layout design automation system, and inputs the analysis results into the storage unit as piping layout design conditions; the support structure generation unit generates new support positions based on the piping layout design conditions reflecting the information on the analysis results. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

4. When a building frame is angled with respect to the coordinate axes of the three-dimensional CAD information, the route generation unit generates a route along the angled building frame.

3. The layout design automation system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the route generation unit generates a route angled with respect to the coordinate axes so as to reduce the length of the route and the number of bends in the route; 5. The layout design automation system according to claim 4.

6. the route generation unit generates a route having ups and downs based on a specified gradient angle so as to minimize the number of ups and downs in the generated route; 3. The layout design automation system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. When a plurality of piping routes run parallel to one another, the route generation unit generates routes such that the gradient angles of the plurality of piping routes are the same.

3. The layout design automation system according to claim 1 or 2.

8. the route generation unit generates a route that satisfies the instrumentation piping layout design conditions by forming ups and downs when a straight line route of the instrumentation piping connecting the start point and the end point does not satisfy the gradient angle specified in the instrumentation piping layout design conditions; 3. The layout design automation system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. When generating a route for a cable rack, the route generation unit generates the route so that an upper surface of the cable rack arranged in a horizontal direction faces upward.

3. The layout design automation system according to claim 1 or 2.

10. When the route generation unit generates a piping route having ups and downs, it generates a vent line on the straight pipe at the highest position of the piping route, the vent line connecting to a nearby funnel, and generates a drain line on the straight pipe at the lowest position of the piping route, the drain line connecting to a nearby funnel. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

11. When a reducing T or reducer is to be generated at a position designated by a designer through the input unit, the component generation unit generates a route using a pipe of a different diameter downstream of the generation position of the reducing T or reducer. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

12. When the part generation unit generates a flange for connecting a pipe, the part generation unit selects and generates a gasket to be attached to the flange based on the type of the flange, the internal fluid of the pipe, pressure, and temperature conditions. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

13. the part generation unit generates a vent valve and a drain valve based on internal fluid and pressure conditions when the route generation unit generates a route of instrumentation piping including ups and downs; The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

14. When the route generation unit generates a route for the instrumentation piping, the part generation unit selects and generates parts to be used for connection joints with the instrumentation interface based on the diameter, material, and fluid temperature of the instrumentation interface. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

15. the component generation unit generates a pull box based on the conduit placement design conditions when the route generation unit generates the conduit route. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

16. When the air volume of an air conditioning duct is input to the input unit, the route generation unit determines the size of the air conditioning duct based on air conditioning duct layout design conditions. The layout design automation system according to claim 2 .

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