Facility Digital Twin Augmentation via 2D-3D Data Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating digital twins of facilities rely on outdated two-dimensional schematics, which lack realistic representations of equipment and can lead to ambiguities and accidents during maintenance and interventions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for generating an augmented digital mapping of facility equipment, combining two-dimensional data from process and instrumentation diagrams with three-dimensional data from point clouds, using machine learning algorithms to align and integrate the data, thereby creating a realistic and up-to-date digital twin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two-dimensional schematics are used to represent facility equipment, then the documentation is simple to create and maintain, but the representation lacks realism and may be outdated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges 2D schematic information (P&ID diagrams) with 3D point cloud data to create an augmented digital mapping that combines the simplicity of 2D documentation with the realism of 3D representations. This integration allows operators to access both simplified schematic views and realistic equipment visualizations within a single system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D schematic representations to an augmented 3D digital mapping by overlaying 2D schematic data onto 3D point cloud models. This dimensional enhancement provides operators with spatial context and realistic equipment views while retaining the informational content of 2D schematics.
2Ease of operation
If multiple teams use different technical documents for maintenance work, then each team can access discipline-specific information, but ambiguities and misunderstandings occur
Solution Approach 1:
The augmented digital mapping system serves as a universal platform that consolidates technical information from multiple disciplines (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation) into a single integrated view. All teams access the same standardized equipment representations and connectivity information, eliminating ambiguities while preserving discipline-specific details through layered information display.
3Measurement precision
If detailed three-dimensional models are created from scratch, then realistic equipment representation is achieved, but the process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing 3D point cloud data of the facility using laser scanning or photogrammetry before the digital twin creation process. This pre-acquired geometric data serves as the foundation for the augmented mapping, eliminating the need to create 3D models from scratch and significantly reducing the time required for digital twin generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates accurate copies of the physical facility by processing 3D point cloud data into digital representations that replicate the actual equipment geometry and spatial relationships. These digital copies serve as the basis for the augmented mapping, providing realistic equipment representations without requiring manual 3D modeling.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automatically generating an augmented digital mapping of a facility, the method including receiving a first digital map representing a diagram of the facility and including a set of symbols and a set of graphical connections; detecting at least one symbol on the first digital map and using the at least one symbol as an input of a first learning function in order to classify the at least one symbol in a classifier; generating a first connectivity graph based on the data stored in the first data file; receiving a second digital map of the facility; segmenting the second digital map into partitions; generating a second connectivity graph; and automatically generating an augmented digital mapping of the facility by aligning the first connectivity graph and the second connectivity graph.