Automated Topology Model Updates for Pressure Pipe Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing pressure pipe networks require manual updates of measurement expressions, which are time-consuming and prone to errors, especially when changes occur in the pipe system.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that automatically retrieves and updates topology and measurement data to determine and generate subsystems within a pipe network, using a processor to analyze and adjust measurement expressions based on changes, with cutting point measurement devices defining graphical boundaries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual updates of measurement expressions are used, then flexibility in handling complex pipe network changes is maintained, but time consumption and error rates increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically retrieves topology data, identifies cutting point measurement devices, generates measurement expressions, and updates subsystems without human intervention. The computer-implemented method enables the pipe network management system to serve itself by autonomously maintaining measurement expressions when pipe system changes occur, eliminating manual updates while ensuring accuracy through automated validation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (human operators manually updating measurement expressions) with an automated computer-based system. The processor automatically retrieves topology data, identifies cutting point devices, generates measurement expressions using algorithms, and updates subsystems, substituting human manual work with automated computational processes that improve both speed and accuracy.
2Productivity
If automated methods are used to update measurement expressions, then productivity and accuracy improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional computer-implemented method that combines topology data retrieval, cutting point device identification, measurement expression generation, and subsystem update capabilities within a single automated system. This universal approach handles various pipe network changes (additions, modifications, removals) through a unified process, managing complexity by consolidating multiple functions into an integrated automated workflow rather than separate complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the pipe network into subsystems based on cutting point measurement devices, allowing independent management and updating of each subsystem. This segmentation divides the complex overall system into manageable smaller units, where each subsystem can be updated independently based on changes detected in its specific measurement expressions, reducing the complexity burden on any single component.
3Measurement precision
If frequent updates are performed to reflect pipe system changes, then data accuracy is maintained, but time and computational resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically retrieving updated topology data and identifying changes before generating new measurement expressions. The computer-implemented method proactively monitors for pipe system changes, retrieves updated topology information in advance, and prepares measurement expression updates before they are critically needed, reducing the time penalty of frequent updates by anticipating and preparing changes ahead of time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where measurement expressions are automatically generated and updated based on retrieved topology data, then validated and applied to subsystems. This feedback loop ensures data accuracy by continuously comparing current topology with existing measurement expressions, automatically correcting discrepancies, and maintaining precision without requiring excessive manual intervention or repeated full-system updates.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method, computer program product and computing system for management of a pressure pipe network is provided. A processor retrieves a topology model of a pipe network. The processor retrieves one or more measurement expressions of the pressure pipe network. The processor determines a parameter list for a first measurement expression, wherein a first parameter of the parameter list represents a cutting point measurement device. The processor generates a first subsystem of the pipe network based, at least in part on, the first parameter.