Configuration Design Automation System

Abstract

Reduce the designer's workload. 【Solution means】 The layout design automation system according to the embodiment is a layout design automation system that generates a route connecting a starting point and an ending point. The layout design automation system has a storage unit and a route generation unit. The route generation unit generates routes for piping, process piping, electrical conduit, cable rack, and air conditioning duct based on the layout space information, dedicated layout space information, existing structure information, operation and maintenance information, and design information indicating piping layout design conditions, process piping layout design conditions, electrical conduit layout design conditions, cable rack layout design conditions, and air conditioning duct layout design conditions stored in the storage unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic layout design system.

Background Art

[0002] There is a technology for automating the design work of piping routes in plants and the like. In the layout design of piping routes in plants and the like, it is necessary to proceed with the layout design of piping routes while satisfying a number of constraint conditions shown in the requirement 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 connecting between the start point and the end point of a pipe in the layout space information while satisfying a number of constraint conditions. Also, in the system of Patent Document 1, it is described that a piping layout plan is advanced while satisfying a number of constraint conditions. Further, technologies such as the generation of supports that support the piping route, the generation of valves that control the internal fluid, and the aggregation of the generated structures are also described.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, as an arrangement plan in a plant or the like, it is necessary to make an arrangement plan while comprehensively considering the arrangements of many facilities such as not only pipes through which fluids (gases, liquids, etc.) pass, but also instrument pipes, electric conduit pipes, cable racks, air-conditioning ducts, etc. Therefore, even if the system described in Patent Document 1 is used, for the arrangement design of instrument pipes, electric conduit pipes, cable racks, air-conditioning ducts, etc., the designer still has to design manually as before. Therefore, it cannot be said that only the functions of the arrangement design automation system described in Patent Document 1 are sufficient, and the workload of the designer is still large.

[0006] The present invention has been made under the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to reduce the workload of designers.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An arrangement design automation system according to an embodiment for solving the above problems is an arrangement design automation system that generates a route connecting a starting point and an end point. The arrangement design automation system includes a storage unit and a route generation unit. The storage unit It stores design information indicating arrangement space information, dedicated arrangement space information, existing structure information, and cable rack arrangement design conditions. The route generation unit generates a route for the cable rack based on the arrangement space information, dedicated arrangement space information, existing structure information, and design information indicating the cable rack arrangement design conditions. The cable rack is a box-shaped structure with an open upper part. When generating a route, the route generation unit performs a process of arranging a plurality of node points at regular intervals in the arrangement space, and divides each of these node points into node points existing in the xz plane corresponding to the x-axis and y-axis, which are the horizontal directions of the three-dimensional coordinate axes, and node points existing in the yz plane. It generates an xz network by connecting the x-axis and z-axis directions of each node point existing in the xz plane, and also performs a process of generating a yz network by connecting the y-axis and z-axis directions of each node point existing in the yz plane. When generating a route by connecting nodes, the route generation unit performs a process of prohibiting the continuity of the route in the vertical z-axis direction and the route in the horizontal x-axis or y-axis direction of different networks, and creates a route in which the upper part of the horizontally arranged cable rack faces the upward vertical direction 。

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] (Embodiment 1) The layout design automation system according to the embodiment can be used for the automatic design of routes such as pipes through which fluids (gases, liquids, etc.) pass in plant facilities, buildings, instrumentation pipes, wire pipes, cable racks, and air-conditioning ducts. Here, the case where the layout design automation system is used for the layout design of plant facilities will be described with reference to the drawings. The layout design automation system is a design system that generates a route connecting between a starting point and an ending point by specifying the starting point and the ending point in the layout design of pipes for fluids (gases, liquids, etc.), instrumentation pipes, wire pipes, cable racks, and air-conditioning ducts. Here, the instrumentation pipe refers to a pipe for accommodating a cable for transmitting information on measurement results such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate, a pipe for accommodating a cable for transmitting a signal for controlling the system, or a pipe for guiding a fluid (gas, liquid, etc.) to be measured to an instrument. The wire pipe refers to a pipe for accommodating a cable for transmitting electric power.

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

[0011] FIG. 1 is a functional configuration diagram of the 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, a keyboard, etc. The designer can select from the input unit 10 which design of pipes, instrumentation pipes, wire pipes, cable racks, and air-conditioning ducts to execute. The input unit 10 displays the 3D CAD information of the building on the screen of the touch panel and acquires the coordinate information of the starting point and the ending point according to the designer's specification. Note that the coordinate information can also be acquired by the designer inputting coordinate values.

[0013] In addition, the input unit 10 displays a list of the type and weight of the fluid, the material of the pipe, the diameter of the pipe, and the sizes of cable racks and air-conditioning ducts on the screen of the touch panel, and acquires this information according to the designer's specifications. When there are multiple routes, the input unit 10 acquires the priority order for determining which route to prioritize for placement according to the designer's specifications. The input unit 10 stores the specified priority order in the storage unit 21 as an additional condition for each design condition stored therein. Further, the input unit 10 can capture the 3D CAD information of the route, support structure, and components as placement space information 21a by inputting data in an output format such as general-purpose CAD. Also, the input unit 10 can capture the data output by the structural analysis system 100 as each design condition stored in the storage unit 21 by inputting the data.

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

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

[0016] The placement space information 21a is 3D CAD information indicating the structure of the building including the facilities. The dedicated placement space information 21b is 3D CAD information indicating the area for placing piping and the like in the building. The existing structure information 21c is 3D CAD information indicating the positions of existing indoor structures. In the following description, the structures of the building such as the ceiling, floor, and wall are referred to as the building structure, and the structures other than the building such as piping and equipment are referred to as indoor structures. The building structure and indoor structures together are sometimes referred to as structures.

[0017] The operation and maintenance information 21d is information indicating conditions of arrangement suitable for maintenance inspection of instruments that require visual confirmation, conditions of arrangement suitable for operation of components that require operation, etc. Instruments that require visual confirmation include flow meters, pressure gauges, etc. Components 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 visually confirm, the height and orientation of the handles of valves that are easy for maintenance personnel to operate, and the distance between instruments, valves, etc. and the wall. The operation and maintenance information 21d includes information on prohibited arrangement areas. The prohibited arrangement area is an area where the arrangement of piping, etc. is prohibited, such as in the vicinity of passages or storage locations for dangerous substances, and an area necessary for maintenance work of valves, etc.

[0018] The piping arrangement design conditions 21e are information indicating design conditions in piping arrangement design. Specifically, the piping arrangement design conditions 21e include conditions for defining piping attributes, the distance between the ceiling, floor, wall and the piping, the distance between parallel pipings, the diameter of the through-hole when providing a through-hole when passing through the structure (ceiling, floor, wall), the through-hole type, in the case of a nuclear power plant, conditions for defining the position of the through-hole in an area with a high radiation dose, the selection of bent pipes for the piping, the length of the straight pipe (the straight part of the piping) before and after the instrument and orifice, construction error, the gradient of the piping, the distance from other equipment, etc., and the centralized arrangement conditions when there are multiple pipings. A bent pipe is a member obtained by bending a straight pipe. Also, the piping arrangement design conditions 21e include separation conditions for the safety system. The separation conditions for the safety system are, for example, when a configuration is such that in the case of an accident occurring in the piping route of the first system, it switches to the piping route of the second system from the piping route of the first system, the piping routes of the first system and the second system are arranged with a wall or the like in between. These information are set according to the type of fluid flowing through the piping, etc. Also, the piping arrangement design conditions 21e include design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of skilled designers.

[0019] The overall pipe arrangement design condition 21f is information indicating the design conditions in the overall pipe arrangement design. Specifically, the overall pipe arrangement design condition 21f includes conditions such as the definition of overall pipe attributes, the distances between the ceiling, floor, walls and the overall pipes, the distances between parallel overall pipes, the selection of bent pipes for the overall pipes, the diameter of the through-hole when providing a through-hole during body passage, the through-hole type, construction error, the gradient of the overall pipes, the distances from other equipment, the up-down generation position, etc. "Up-down" refers to a combination of a route that goes down at a predetermined gradient angle and a route that goes up from a low position to a predetermined height. The condition of the up-down generation position is, for example, the condition that defines the position and rising direction for raising the route in order to minimize the number of up-down sections. Furthermore, the overall pipe arrangement design condition 21f includes design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of skilled designers.

[0020] The wire pipe arrangement design condition 21g is information indicating the design conditions in the wire pipe arrangement design. Specifically, the wire pipe arrangement design condition 21g includes conditions such as the definition of wire pipe attributes, the definition of pull box arrangement, the distances between the ceiling, floor, walls and the wire pipes, the distances between parallel wire pipes, the selection of bent pipes for the wire pipes, the diameter of the through-hole when providing a through-hole during body passage, the through-hole type, construction error, the distances from other equipment, etc. Also, the wire pipe arrangement design condition 21g includes design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of skilled designers.

[0021] The cable rack arrangement design condition 21h is information indicating the design conditions in the cable rack arrangement design. Specifically, the cable rack arrangement design condition 21h includes conditions such as the definition of cable rack attributes, the distances between the ceiling, floor, walls and the cable rack, the diameter of the through-hole when providing a through-hole during body passage, the through-hole type, construction error, the distances from other equipment, etc. Also, the cable rack arrangement design condition 21h includes design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of skilled designers.

[0022] The air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i is information indicating the design conditions in the air-conditioning duct layout design. Specifically, the air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i includes conditions such as air-conditioning duct attribute definition, duct size selection conditions, distances between the ceiling, floor, wall and the air-conditioning duct, distances between parallel ducts, the diameter of the through-hole when providing a through-hole during building penetration, through-hole type, construction error, distances from other equipment, and the layout of dampers and air supply and exhaust ports. Also, the air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i includes design conditions based on the experience and knowledge of skilled designers.

[0023] Returning to FIG. 1, the route generation unit 22 generates routes for pipes, prefabricated pipes, wire pipes, cable racks, and air-conditioning ducts based on the design information indicating the layout space information 21a, dedicated layout space information 21b, existing structure information 21c, operation and maintenance information 21d, and piping layout design condition 21e, prefabricated piping layout design condition 21f, wire pipe layout design condition 21g, cable rack layout design condition 21h, and air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i. For example, when a plurality of end points are specified for one starting point from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates an optimal branching position in the middle of the route and generates a route connecting to each end point based on the information in the storage unit 21. Also, the route generation unit 22 can generate a route passing through the interior of the building structure such as a wall based on an instruction from the input unit 10. In this case, the route generation unit 22 generates three-dimensional information indicating a route passing through the interior of the structure as the interior information of the three-dimensional information indicating the building structure. Also, the route generation unit 22 generates a route passing through the specified structure based on the conditions specified from the input unit 10. Also, when there is a structure angled with respect to the coordinate axes in the layout space information 21a, the route generation unit 22 generates a route along the angled structure. The angled structure is a curved ceiling, wall, staircase, etc. Also, the route generation unit 22 generates a route angled with respect to the coordinate axes when it can reduce the length and number of bends of the route by making the route angled with respect to the coordinate axes.

[0024] For the route generated by the route generation unit 22, the component generation unit 23 automatically recognizes and generates components included in the route, such as instruments, valves, specialties, flanges, couplings, pull boxes related to electricity, and dampers for air-conditioning ducts, etc., at positions that satisfy the specified visibility, operability, and placement conditions of the components within the range specified by the input unit 10.

[0025] The component generation unit 23 has a function of arranging the components generated on the route generated by the route generation unit 22. The component generation unit 23 arranges the generated components at positions that satisfy the design conditions. For example, when the component generation unit 23 generates a flange, it selects a gasket to be attached to the flange that satisfies the conditions of the flange type, the internal fluid of the pipe, pressure, and temperature, and arranges the selected gasket at the placement position of the flange.

[0026] The support position generation unit 24 determines the support positions for arranging support members for supporting the pipes based on the fixed pitch span method (also referred to as the standard support interval method). The support position generation unit 24 determines the support positions for arranging support members for supporting the pipes based on the weight of the pipes, the weight of the fluid flowing through the pipes, etc. For example, the support position generation unit 24 determines the support positions so as to support near the portions where the loads concentrate, such as the starting point, ending point, bending portion, and branching portion of the pipes, and determines the support positions by the fixed pitch span method based on the standard spans (the intervals between adjacent support positions) preset for the straight pipe portions and the bent pipe portions. Also, when a plurality of pipe routes generated by the route generation unit 22 are adjacent or the pipes are running parallel, the support position generation unit 24 determines, as the support positions, the positions where two or more of the plurality of pipes can be supported at one support position. The support positions generated by the support position generation unit 24 can be moved, deleted, or the constraint conditions can be changed by specifying from the input unit 10.

[0027] The support position generation unit 24 can set the route between two points on the route generated by the route generation unit 22 specified from the input unit 10 as a range where support installation is not allowed. When a range where support installation is not allowed is set, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions in the range excluding the range where support installation is not allowed when generating support positions based on the fixed pitch span method.

[0028] Also, the support structure generation unit 25 determines the support members based on the locations where the support members determined by the support position generation unit 24 are to be fixed. The support structure generation unit 25 determines the support members according to 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. Further, after generating the support structure, when different support members are generated at each support position, the support structure generation unit 25 can unify the support members by specifying from the input unit 10. Specifically, for example, when equilateral angles of different sizes are arranged, they can be unified into equilateral angles of the same size. Also, when channel steels or angle steels are mixed, the steel material type can be changed and unified into the same steel material type.

[0029] The quantity aggregating unit 26 aggregates the number of each member determined by the route generation unit 22, the component generation unit 23, and the support structure generation unit 25. Also, the quantity aggregating unit 26 aggregates the number of the arranged routes, support structures, instruments, valves, flanges, couplings, etc. for each type and creates a quantity table.

[0030] The output unit 30 is composed of a display or a printing device. The output unit 30 displays the 3D CAD images of the routes and support members generated by the route generation unit 22 and the support position generation unit 24. Also, the output unit 30 displays the structures generated by the component generation unit 23 and the support structure generation unit 25 as 3D CAD images. Further, the output unit 30 outputs the quantity table aggregated by the quantity aggregating 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 components generated by the component generation unit 23 into a format that can be used in general-purpose CAD or the like and output them. The external output unit 40 can output CAD data including a lot of information such as 3D CAD shape, 3D CAD attributes, 3D CAD library, etc. as a format of general-purpose CAD or the like, or lightweight CAD data with only 3D CAD shape and 3D CAD attributes.

[0032] The structural analysis system 100 is a system that performs strength evaluations such as durability analysis against thermal stress, vibration analysis of pipes due to the passage of fluids, seismic resistance analysis, etc. For example, in the durability analysis against thermal stress by the structural analysis system 100, the environmental temperature and the temperature of the fluid passing through the pipe are changed from the maximum temperature specified by the specifications to the minimum temperature, and it can be analyzed whether a load equal to or higher than the reference value is generated in the pipe due to thermal expansion or contraction of the pipe. Depending on the straight pipe length, bending position, and generation status of the support position of the pipe route, the internal stress of the pipe may become higher than the reference value due to the thermal expansion of the pipe caused by the heat of the fluid. In this case, it is necessary to review the pipe route and support position.

[0033] The layout design automation system 1 can output the data generated by the layout design automation system 1 to the structural analysis system 100 via the external output unit 40. Also, the layout design automation system 1 can take in the analysis results analyzed by the structural analysis system 100 from the input unit 10 and take 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 designs not only for pipes through which fluids (gases, liquids, etc.) pass, but also for assembly pipes, wire pipes, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. by having a plurality of design conditions in the storage unit 21. Thereby, the work burden of the designer can be reduced.

[0035] In addition, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can perform layout design not only for pipes through which fluids (gases, liquids, etc.) pass, but also for plumbing pipes, electrical conduit pipes, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. Therefore, it is not necessary for the designer to manually perform layout design for plumbing pipes, electrical conduit pipes, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. Accordingly, since the quality of the layout design including plumbing pipes, electrical conduit pipes, cable racks, air conditioning ducts, etc. is not affected by the technical level of the designer, the design quality can be improved.

[0036] (Embodiment 2) In Embodiment 2, the case where the layout design automation system 1 executes the layout design of pipes through which fluids (gases, liquids, etc.) pass will be described.

[0037] The route generation unit 22 generates a pipe route based on the pipe layout design condition 21e on the premise that, by designating the pipe layout design from the input unit 10, a straight pipe is selected for the straight part and an elbow member is selected for the bent part. The elbow member is a member that constitutes the bent part of the pipe. The elbow member is a member that connects straight pipes and is used to change the angle and gradient of the pipe. The route generation unit 22 can also generate a pipe route that employs a bent pipe in order to reduce the number of elbow members and welding points of the pipe.

[0038] There may be a condition for the gradient angle of the pipe as a design condition. When the gradient angle of the straight pipe route of the pipe connecting the starting point and the ending point does not satisfy the gradient angle specified by the design condition, the route generation unit 22 generates a route that satisfies the design condition by forming an up-and-down. The up-and-down refers to a combination of a route that goes down at a predetermined gradient angle and a route that goes up from a low position to a predetermined height. When generating a route having an up-and-down based on the specification of the gradient angle, the route generation unit 22 generates the route so that the number of up-and-downs of the generated route is minimized.

[0039] When the piping route includes up-and-down sections, the piping route will have undulations in the vertical direction. If fluid accumulates in this recess, a piping route for discharging the accumulated fluid is required. FIG. 3 shows an example of generating a route for discharging the fluid that accumulates in the recess. In FIG. 3, the main pipe P1 is shown by a thick line. Here, it is assumed that the main pipe P1 is a pipe through which water passes. As shown in FIG. 3, the main pipe P1 has a recess that is recessed in the -Z axis direction. The drain line P3 is a drainage route for the water that has accumulated in the recess. The vent line P2 is a route for taking in the air necessary for draining the fluid. Also, the funnel P5 is a device for collecting the drainage of the pipes and equipment within the power plant. In FIG. 3, the manual valve is indicated by P4.

[0040] When a recess is generated due to up-and-down sections like the main pipe P1 shown in FIG. 3, the component generation unit 23 generates a vent line P2 that connects to the nearby funnel P5 on the straight pipe at the highest position of the piping route, and a drain line P3 that connects to the nearby funnel P5 on the straight pipe at the lowest position, and arranges a manual valve P4 in the middle of the routes of the vent line and the drain line.

[0041] When the pipe diameter condition of the route is not input, the route generation unit 22 generates a route with the same diameter. Since 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, locations where pipes are connected to each other occur. The route generation unit 22 determines the connection positions of the pipes by inputting the transportation and construction conditions of the piping route from the storage unit 21 or the input unit 10.

[0042] Based on the connection conditions of the pipes, the component generation unit 23 generates a reduced-diameter T or a reducer at the connection position of the pipes. Alternatively, the component generation unit 23 generates a coupling, which is a welding joint that connects pipes of corresponding diameters, at the connection position of the pipes.

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

[0044] The layout design automation system 1 takes in the analysis results such as durability analysis against thermal stress, vibration analysis of the piping accompanying the passage of fluid, and seismic 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. Thereby, the conditions indicated by the piping layout design conditions 21e etc. 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 with the information on the analysis results by the structural analysis system 100 added thereto.

[0045] Also, the support position generation unit 24 generates new support positions based on the information in the storage unit 21 that has received feedback on the analysis results by the structural analysis system 100.

[0046] Fig. 4 shows a flowchart of the output of analysis data from the layout design automation system 1 to the structural analysis system 100 and the feedback of the analysis results from the structural analysis system 100 to the layout design automation system 1. First, a route is generated in the route generation unit 22 and components are generated in the component generation unit 23 (step A01). Next, the support position generation unit 24 sets a non - support - installable range (step A02). Next, the support position generation unit 24 generates support positions based on standard spans (step A03). Next, support positions are added by random arrangement (step A04).

[0047] Next, the layout design automation system 1 outputs 3D 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 the analysis (step A06).

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

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

[0050] The support structure generation unit 25 also generates a support structure based on the piping layout standard information, detailed design information, etc. in which the analysis results of the structural analysis system 100 are added and corrected.

[0051] By accumulating the information of the analysis results by the structural analysis system 100 as design conditions, the design quality of the layout design automation system 1 is improved. As the design quality of the layout design automation system 1 improves, the work scope that needs to be reviewed by designers with a high technical level is reduced. Therefore, the work burden on designers can be reduced.

[0052] In the above description, the case of repeating the steps from step A03 to step A07 N times has been described. As another embodiment, the steps from step A01 to step A07 may be repeated N times by changing the route, support position, support structure, etc.

[0053] (Embodiment 3) In Embodiment 3, the case where the layout design automation system 1 performs the layout design of the instrument piping will be described. Here, the case where the instrument piping is the piping for guiding the fluid (gas, liquid, etc.) to be measured from the main pipe to the instrument will be described.

[0054] When the designer designates the layout design of the instrument piping from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrument piping route based on the instrument piping layout design condition 21f on the premise that a straight pipe is selected for the straight part and a bent pipe is selected for the bent part.

[0055] When the designer designates the layout design of the instrument piping from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates the route of the instrument piping so as to have a downward gradient (inclination angle) that satisfies the design conditions. Also, when the route generation unit 22 generates an instrument piping route in which a plurality of routes are arranged in parallel vertically, horizontally, and laterally, the route generation unit 22 generates the instrument piping route so that the gradient angles of the respective routes are the same.

[0056] Further, when the straight route connecting the start point and the end point does not satisfy the gradient angle defined by the design conditions, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrument piping route that satisfies the design conditions by forming an up-and-down. The up-and-down means a combination of a route that goes down at a predetermined gradient angle and a route that goes up from a low position to a predetermined height. When generating an instrument piping route having an up-and-down based on the definition of the gradient angle, the route generation unit 22 generates the instrument piping route so that the number of up-and-downs of the generated route is minimized. Also, when an instrument piping aggregation area is set in the layout space information 21a, the route generation unit 22 generates an instrument piping route that passes through the instrument piping aggregation area.

[0057] When the route generation unit 22 generates a total plumbing route including up and down, the component generation unit 23 generates a vent valve for the up part and a drain valve for the down part based on the internal fluid and pressure conditions. Also, the component generation unit 23 selects and generates a connection joint based on the diameter, material, and fluid temperature of the instrumentation connection part. The instrumentation connection part is the piping connected to the instrument or the connection part between the instrument and the main piping. Further, when the straight pipe part of the total plumbing route exceeds a certain length, the component generation unit 23 generates couplings at regular intervals. Also, in the total plumbing route, when the number of consecutive bent parts reaches a certain number or more, the component generation unit 23 generates welding joints at bent parts at regular intervals.

[0058] When the designer designates the design of the total plumbing route from the input unit 10, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the total plumbing, the seismic class, and the positional relationship with the building body.

[0059] Figure 5 is an example of a flowchart for route generation of total plumbing. First, the designer designates the design of the total plumbing route from the input unit 10 (step I01). The route generation unit 22 acquires the total plumbing layout design condition 21f from the storage unit 21 (step I02). Subsequently, the route generation unit 22 sets routing conditions based on the conditions designated from the input unit 10 and the total plumbing layout design condition 21f (step I03). Thereafter, the route generation unit 22 generates a total plumbing route that satisfies the design conditions (step I04).

[0060] Next, the route generation unit 22 determines whether the generated total plumbing route satisfies the total plumbing layout design condition 21f (step I05). For example, there may be a case where the gradient of the total plumbing associated with the route designated by the designer from the input unit 10 does not satisfy the total plumbing layout design condition 21f. Also, when the straight line route from the designated starting point to the ending point is considered, there may be a case where the gradient angle condition defined by the total plumbing layout design condition 21f is not satisfied. When the gradient does not satisfy the total plumbing layout design condition 21f (step I05: No), the route generation unit 22 generates up and down based on the total plumbing layout design condition 21f (step I06).

[0061] Next, the component generation unit 23 generates the components required for the planned plumbing (step I07). The component generation unit 23 arranges the generated components at positions that satisfy the conditions of visibility, operability, and disposability. The component generation unit 23 can also arrange the components specified from the input unit 10 within the 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 planned plumbing layout design conditions 21f according to the weight of the planned plumbing, seismic resistance class, etc. Also, the standard span can be specified from the input unit 10.

[0063] Next, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure according to the weight of the planned plumbing, seismic resistance class, positional relationship with the building body, etc. (step I09). This support structure is stored in advance in the planned plumbing layout design conditions 21f according to the weight of the planned plumbing, seismic resistance class, positional relationship with the building body, etc.

[0064] As described above, since the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate a planned plumbing route and supports that satisfy the planned plumbing layout design conditions 21f, it is not necessary for a designer to manually perform the layout design of the planned plumbing route. Therefore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the work burden on the designer. Also, since the quality of the layout design of the planned plumbing route is not affected by the technical level of the designer, the design quality can be improved.

[0065] (Embodiment 4) In Embodiment 4, the case where the layout design automation system 1 performs the layout design of electrical conduit pipes will be described.

[0066] When the designer designates the wiring conduit layout from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates a wiring conduit route on the assumption that straight pipes are selected for straight sections and bent pipes are selected for bent sections, based on the wiring conduit layout design condition 21g. Further, the component generation unit 23 generates pull boxes at branches, penetrations, etc. of the route generated by the route generation unit 22, based on the wiring conduit layout design condition 21g.

[0067] In addition, when the designer designates the wiring conduit layout from the input unit 10, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the wiring conduit, the seismic resistance class, and the positional relationship with the building structure.

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

[0069] After the route generation is completed, the component generation unit 23 generates a pull box (step E05). The arrangement condition of the pull box is stored in the wiring conduit layout design condition 21g in advance.

[0070] Next, the support position generation unit 24 generates a support position based on the standard span (step E06). This standard span is stored in the wiring conduit layout design condition 21g in advance according to the weight of the wiring conduit, the seismic resistance class, etc. Also, the standard span can be designated from the input unit 10.

[0071] Next, the support structure generation unit 25 generates a support structure based on the weight of the wiring conduit, the seismic resistance class, the positional relationship with the building structure, etc. (step E07). This support structure is stored in the wiring conduit layout design condition 21g in advance according to the weight of the wiring conduit, the seismic resistance class, the positional relationship with the building structure, etc.

[0072] As described above, since the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate a conduit route and supports that satisfy the conduit layout design conditions 21g, it is not necessary 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. In addition, 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 Embodiment 5, the case where the layout design automation system 1 performs the layout design of the cable rack will be described.

[0074] When the designer designates the layout design of the cable rack from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates a cable rack route based on the cable rack layout design conditions 21h on the premise of using a rectangular box-shaped structure as the cable rack.

[0075] The route generation unit 22 checks whether it can satisfy the condition of the occupation ratio of the cables in one stage of the cable rack by inputting the cable capacity to be loaded from the input unit 10. When the route generation unit 22 exceeds the specified value of the occupancy ratio, it generates a route with a multi-stage cable rack.

[0076] The route generation unit 22 determines the layout position of the cable rack based on the generated cable route. When there is already a cable rack arranged in the space where the cable rack is to be arranged, the route generation unit 22 generates a route above or below the existing cable rack.

[0077] When the designer designates the layout design of the cable rack from the input unit 10, in the portion where the route is arranged horizontally, the route generation unit 22 generates the route so that the upper surface of the cable rack always faces upward. This is for loading and accommodating the cables in the cable rack with an open upper side.

[0078] The support structure generation 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 housing.

[0079] FIG. 7 is an example of a flowchart for route generation of a cable rack. First, the designer designates the design of the cable rack route from the input unit 10 (step K01). Subsequently, the route generation unit 22 acquires the cable rack layout design condition 21h from the storage unit 21 (step K02). Subsequently, the route generation unit 22 sets routing conditions based on the conditions designated from the input unit 10 and the cable rack layout design condition 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 such that the upper surface of the cable rack always faces upward. Details of step K04 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 8. First, the route generation unit 22 arranges node points at regular intervals when generating the route of the cable rack (step K41). Then, the route generation unit 22 generates a network connecting the node points (step K42). With reference to FIG. 9, the node points and the network will be described. In FIG. 9, the node points are indicated by circles. The lines connecting the node points are 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, in generating the route of the cable rack, when generating a route L1 following the network shown in FIG. 9, between the node points K27 and K24 in FIG. 9, as shown in FIG. 10, the upper surface of the rectangular cable rack may be arranged to face in the X-axis direction. In order to accommodate the cables in the cable rack, it is necessary to arrange the upper surface of the rectangular cable rack to face upward (+Z direction).

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

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

[0084] Next, assume that the route generation unit 22 generates a route that passes through the node points in the order of (1), (3), (4), (6), (12) in FIG. 12. In this case, passing from the vertical route ((3)→(4)) to the horizontal route ((4)→(6)) does not correspond to the vertical route and the horizontal route of different networks being continuous. Therefore, by performing the process of step K46, this route will not be excluded from the route candidates.

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

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

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

[0088] As described above, since the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate a route and supports that satisfy the design conditions of the cable rack, it is not necessary for a designer to manually perform the layout design of the cable rack route. Therefore, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the work burden of the designer. Also, since the quality of the layout design of the cable rack route is not affected by the technical level of the designer, the design quality can be improved.

[0089] (Embodiment 6) In Embodiment 6, the case where the layout design automation system 1 performs the layout design of the air conditioning duct will be described.

[0090] When the designer designates the layout design of the air-conditioning duct from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 generates the route of the air-conditioning duct on the premise of using a rectangular box-shaped structure as the air-conditioning duct, based on the air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i. When the air volume is input from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 selects the duct size based on the air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i. Also, when the radiation shielding requirement condition is input from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 selects the duct type for radiation shielding. Further, when the negative pressure management requirement is input from the input unit 10, the route generation unit 22 selects the duct type for negative pressure management.

[0091] The component generation unit 23 generates a reducer at the position designated from the input unit 10. Also, when a reducer is generated, the route generation unit 22 generates a route with a different duct size on the downstream side of the generation position.

[0092] FIG. 14 is an example of a flowchart for route generation of the air-conditioning duct. First, the designer designates 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 condition 21i from the storage unit 21 (step D02). Then, the route generation unit 22 sets the routing condition based on the condition designated from the input unit 10 and the air-conditioning duct layout design condition 21i (step D03). And the route generation unit 22 generates an air-conditioning duct route that satisfies the design condition (step D04).

[0093] Next, the component generation unit 23 generates the components (outlet, inlet, damper, duct-mounted instrument, etc.) required for the air-conditioning duct (step D05). The component generation unit 23 arranges the generated components at positions that satisfy the conditions of visibility, operability, and layout. The component generation unit 23 can also arrange the components designated from the input unit 10 within the range designated 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 of the air conditioning duct, the seismic resistance class, etc. Also, the standard span can 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, the seismic resistance class, the positional relationship with the building body, 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, the seismic resistance class, the positional relationship with the building body, etc.

[0096] As described above, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can generate an air conditioning duct route and supports that satisfy the design conditions of the air conditioning duct. Therefore, it is not necessary for a designer to manually perform the layout design of the air conditioning duct route. Thus, the layout design automation system 1 according to the embodiment can reduce the workload of the designer. Also, since the quality of the layout design of the air conditioning duct is not affected by the technical level of the designer, the design quality can be improved.

[0097] As mentioned above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention and are also included in the invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0098] 1... Layout design automation system 10... Input unit 20... Automation processing unit 21... Storage unit 21a... Layout space information 21b... Dedicated layout space information 21c... Existing structure information 21d... Operation and maintenance information 21e... Piping layout design conditions 21f... Overall assembled piping layout design conditions 21g... Electrical conduit layout design conditions 21h... Cable rack layout design conditions 21i... Air conditioning duct layout design conditions 22... Route generation unit 23... Component generation unit 24... Support position generation unit 25... Support structure generation unit 26... Quantity aggregation unit 30... Output unit 40... External output unit 100... Structural analysis system P1... Main pipe P2... Vent line P3... Drain line P4... Manual valve P5... Funnel

Claims

[Claim 1] A layout design automation system that generates a route connecting a start point and an end point, a storage unit that stores arrangement space information, arrangement dedicated space information, existing structure information, and design information indicating cable rack arrangement design conditions; a route generating unit that generates a route of a cable rack based on the arrangement space information, the arrangement dedicated space information, the existing structure information, and design information indicating the cable rack arrangement design conditions; having The cable rack is a box-shaped structure with an open top, The route generation unit When generating a route, a process is performed in which multiple node points are placed at regular intervals in the configuration space; These node points are divided into node points existing on the xz plane and node points existing on the yz plane, which correspond to the x-axis and y-axis, which are the horizontal directions of the three-dimensional coordinate axes, and the z-axis, which is the vertical direction. Generate an xz network by connecting the x-axis and z-axis directions of each of the node points present on the xz plane, and generate a yz network by connecting the y-axis and z-axis directions of each of the node points present on the yz plane, When generating a route by connecting the nodes, a process is performed to prohibit a route in the z-axis direction (vertical direction) of a different network from being continuous with a route in the x-axis or y-axis direction (horizontal direction), thereby generating a route in which the top of the cable rack arranged horizontally faces vertically upward. Layout design automation system.

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