Template-Based Domain Visualization Using Real-Time Instance Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating domain visualizations, such as those for HVAC and energy plant systems, are time-consuming and become obsolete with changes in facility devices or systems, requiring users to manually redraw complex diagrams.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for creating domain visualizations using pre-defined templates enriched with instance and real-time information, allowing for automated generation and updating of visualizations that reflect current conditions, with user input minimized through an interface that integrates ontology, instance, and real-time data sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If visualizations are created manually by users using computerized drawing tools, then the visualizations can be customized to domain-specific requirements, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining visualization templates with domain-specific layouts, symbols, and conventions (e.g., HVAC templates with standard ductwork symbols, P&ID templates with pre-configured process symbols). These templates are prepared in advance and stored in a library, allowing users to quickly generate visualizations by selecting and customizing pre-built templates rather than creating everything from scratch.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by allowing users to replicate standardized visualization templates across multiple domains and projects. Once a template is created or selected, it can be copied and instantiated repeatedly with minimal modification, enabling consistent domain-specific visualizations to be generated rapidly without manual redrawing of complex diagrams.
2Reliability
If visualizations are created manually by domain experts, then the visualizations accurately reflect domain standards and conventions, but the process requires specialized knowledge and becomes obsolete when facility changes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling visualizations to automatically update when facility data changes. The system links visualizations to live facility data sources, so when devices are installed, removed, or modified in the facility, the corresponding visualizations dynamically refresh to reflect current conditions without requiring manual redrawing by domain experts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by creating a multi-functional platform that serves multiple domains (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, process control) through a common template system. The same underlying technology and template infrastructure supports various domain-specific visualizations, allowing the system to adapt to different domains while maintaining domain-specific standards through specialized templates.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex visualizations are drawn manually, then detailed and accurate representations can be achieved, but the complexity increases the time and expertise required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by breaking down complex visualizations into standardized, reusable components organized in hierarchical templates. Complex facility systems are divided into domain-specific subsystems (e.g., HVAC into cooling, heating, ventilation components; electrical into power distribution, lighting circuits), each represented by standardized symbols and connection patterns that can be assembled systematically rather than drawn as monolithic complex diagrams.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and systems for creating a domain visualization are described herein. One method includes receiving a selection of a particular visualization template from a plurality of visualization templates, receiving instance information associated with a domain specified by the template from an instance source, receiving operating information from at least one instance of the domain, and displaying a visualization of the domain using the template, the instance information, and the operating information.