CADD File Protection Across Design, As-Built, and Record Conformance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility and facility organizations face challenges in managing dynamically changing CADD files during the DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD CONFORMANCE processes, particularly due to multiple concurrent updates, leading to data loss and overwrite issues.
Innovation Solution
A process involving downloading, conforming, and renaming files to meet CADD standards, using AI and ML tools for spatial analysis to manage layers, and creating separate construction sheet files to maintain data integrity, while preventing concurrent changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple concurrent updates are made to CADD files during DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD CONFORMANCE processes, then productivity and adaptability are improved, but data integrity and reliability deteriorate due to data loss and overwrite issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the CADD file management process into distinct phases (DESIGN, AS-BUILT, RECORD CONFORMANCE) with separate workflows for each. Each phase has its own set of controlled operations, preventing concurrent modifications across different phases from causing data conflicts. The file system is segmented into different directories or versions for each phase, allowing parallel processing while maintaining isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary actions by requiring file locking mechanisms before modifications and establishing a predefined hierarchy of file states. Before any concurrent update can occur, the system performs preliminary checks to ensure proper sequencing and authorization. This preliminary structuring prevents data loss by ensuring that updates follow a controlled progression through the DESIGN → AS-BUILT → RECORD CONFORMANCE sequence.
2Reliability
If strict file protection measures are implemented to prevent data loss and overwrite, then reliability and data integrity are improved, but productivity and ease of operation worsen due to restricted concurrent access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic file protection mechanisms that adjust access restrictions based on the current file state and user authorization level. Rather than static locking, the system dynamically evaluates the phase of the project and the nature of the requested operation to determine appropriate access permissions. This allows legitimate concurrent operations to proceed while blocking only those that would cause data conflicts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary file management system that sits between users and the CADD files. This intermediary layer handles all access requests, automatically resolving conflicts and coordinating concurrent operations. It provides a user-friendly interface that abstracts the complexity of protection mechanisms, allowing users to work conveniently while the intermediary ensures data integrity through automated conflict resolution and sequencing.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate construction sheet files are created for Demolition and Design, then data organization and manufacturing precision are improved, but device complexity and workflow complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments construction documentation into separate Demolition and Design construction sheet files, each with dedicated templates and workflows. This segmentation improves manufacturing precision by ensuring that demolition activities and design activities are documented with appropriate level of detail and follow phase-appropriate standards. The file management complexity is reduced through automated routing that directs users to the appropriate file type based on the current project phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal file management framework that handles both Demolition and Design construction sheets through common protocols and interfaces. Despite the separation of files, the system provides unified access controls, version management, and integration mechanisms that work across both file types. This multi-functional approach allows the system to manage diverse file types without proportionally increasing complexity, as the underlying management infrastructure is shared and standardized.
Data Source
AI summary
Operations and Maintenance Design drawing maintenance, As-Built drawing conformance, and Record Drawing Conformance processes for protecting the integrity of dynamically modified files for Assets through all phases of a drawing's lifecycle.