O&M Record Drawing File Protection Process

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Solution Overview

Problem

Utility and facility organizations face challenges in managing dynamically changing computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) files during the DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD processes, particularly due to concurrent designs and updates that can lead to data loss or overwrite, especially without competent drawing content management policies and procedures.

Innovation Solution

A step-by-step process involving the creation of Interim Parent Files, Demolition and Design XREF Files, and Construction Sheet Files, using Autodesk software, to manage and maintain Operations and Maintenance (O&M) record drawings by isolating and updating demolition and design elements, preventing data overwrite, and ensuring accurate documentation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If concurrent designs and updates are made to CADD files during DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD processes, then productivity and design efficiency are improved, but data loss or overwrite occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign efficiencyVSAvoiddata loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the CADD file management process into distinct phases (DESIGN, AS-BUILT, RECORD) with separate file types and management procedures for each phase. This segmentation allows concurrent operations in different phases without conflict, while maintaining data integrity within each phase through dedicated file handling protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary control mechanisms including file versioning systems, change management protocols, and centralized coordination procedures that mediate between concurrent design activities. These intermediaries prevent direct conflicts by orchestrating file access and updates, ensuring data integrity while allowing parallel productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual management of dynamically changing CADD files is performed, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but data overwrite and loss occur

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoiddata integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms through automated tracking systems that monitor file changes, version control records, and status updates throughout the DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD processes. This feedback provides real-time information about file states and changes, enabling flexible adaptation while maintaining reliability through continuous verification and control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables self-service capabilities through automated file management functions including automatic version control, change detection, and status tracking. These self-service mechanisms reduce manual intervention errors while preserving flexibility, allowing the system to manage itself reliably without sacrificing adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If separate file management processes are implemented for DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD, then data integrity is improved, but device complexity and process complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata integrityVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by creating a unified multi-phase file management system that handles DESIGN, AS-BUILT, and RECORD processes through consistent principles and procedures. While separate processes exist for each phase, they share common management frameworks, terminology, and control mechanisms, reducing overall complexity compared to entirely separate systems while maintaining data integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11288228B2Operations and maintenance file protection processes
Publication Date: 2022.03.29 INNOVATIVE PROCESS TECH LLC
  • US11288228B2 patent drawing
  • US11288228B2 patent drawing
  • US11288228B2 patent drawing

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.