Modular Plant Pipeline Layout Using 3D CAD and Module Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular plant design and construction are time-consuming and costly due to the complexity of physical connections between modules, lack of information management, and inefficient resource management, particularly in the selection and arrangement of pipelines.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that integrates logical and physical information using 3D CAD, manages module and pipeline data in real-time with RFID and barcodes, and optimizes resource management to efficiently select and arrange pipelines based on complex data including physical and chemical properties of modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom design and integrated system construction are used for each part of the process, then the plant can be built with complete functionality, but the design and construction time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the plant construction process into standardized modules that can be independently designed, manufactured, and assembled. Each module contains pre-defined process equipment and pipeline connections, allowing parallel development and reducing overall design time while maintaining complete functionality through modular integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-designing and pre-assembling module packages with all internal pipelines and equipment configured before final plant assembly. This includes pre-routing pipelines within modules and pre-configuring equipment connections, so that during plant construction, modules can be quickly installed and interconnected without on-site customization.
2Reliability
If custom design and integrated system construction are used for each part of the process, then the plant can be built with complete functionality, but the construction and expansion cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the plant into standardized module packages that can be manufactured independently and assembled systematically. This segmentation enables economies of scale in manufacturing, standardized procurement processes, and reduced on-site construction costs, while maintaining complete plant functionality through proper module integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by standardizing key design parameters across all module packages (such as connection interfaces, pipeline specifications, and equipment mounting standards). This standardization allows for interchangeable modules, simplified procurement, and reduced construction costs while maintaining functional completeness through parameter-compliant integration.
3Productivity
If modular design with standardized modules is used, then design and construction time is reduced, but the complexity of selecting and arranging pipelines between modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing standardized connection interfaces and pipeline specifications that can be used across all module types. This universal interface approach allows the same pipeline components and connection methods to be reused throughout the plant, simplifying the selection and arrangement process despite the variety of modules being interconnected.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating reusable pipeline connection templates and standard routing patterns that can be replicated across different module interfaces. Once a pipeline arrangement is designed for one module connection, the same template can be copied and adapted for similar connections elsewhere in the plant, reducing the complexity of pipeline selection and arrangement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual pipeline selection and arrangement processes are used, then flexibility in handling complex requirements is maintained, but the time and resource consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the module configuration data automatically feeds into pipeline selection algorithms. The system receives information about module types, connection requirements, and spatial arrangements, then provides automated recommendations for pipeline selection and routing that adapt to the specific complex requirements of each plant configuration, maintaining flexibility while improving efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pipeline selection processes with automated computer-based systems that use algorithms to select and arrange pipelines based on module specifications and plant requirements. This substitution maintains adaptability to complex requirements through software flexibility while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating manual iteration and calculation.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a memory and a processor coupled to the memory and the processor configured to acquire pipeline information related to pipes that connect a plurality of modules included in a modular plant and construction information including information related to the modules, and specify, based on the acquired construction information, pipe information related to a selection and an arrangement of pipelines to be placed between the plurality of modules.