WO2022050349A1

WO2022050349A1 - Computer program, information processing device, and method

Info

Publication number: WO2022050349A1
Application number: PCT/JP2021/032283
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kenichi Kobayashi; Chin chet SEE; Masahiro Shimoike; Naohisa OHKITA
Original assignee: Plantstream Inc.
Priority date: 2020-09-03
Filing date: 2021-09-02
Publication date: 2022-03-10
Also published as: JP2023106652A

Abstract

Provided is a technology that allows a user to easily switch between macro design and micro design when designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant. Resolution means: A server (20) of a plant design system (1) includes, as functions thereof, an operation mode switch module (2033) that receives a switch between an overall mode or first operation mode in which all of a predetermined area is displayed and layout of objects corresponding to equipment is edited and a unit mode or second operation mode in which layout of objects constituting a plant in each piece of equipment is edited, an overall mode control module (2034) that receives an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to the equipment, and a unit mode control module (2035) that receives an operation of editing layout of objects in the equipment.

Description

COMPUTER PROGRAM, INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE, AND METHOD

The present disclosure relates to a computer program, information processing device, and method.

To construct a large facility, such as a chemical plant, various types of design are performed so that various types of equipment are appropriately laid out at a wide site. Such plant design requires various considerations based on functional requirements that the plant is required to satisfy, the maintainability of equipment, and the geographical conditions of candidate sites at which the chemical plant may be constructed, and requires an enormous amount of work. For this reason, design tools, such as a CAD, that support such work are being used. Specifically, various types of design, such as layout of objects corresponding to equipment, layout of objects corresponding to apparatuses, and routing of pipes, are being performed using such design tools.

Patent Literature 1 discloses the technology of a design support apparatus that supports the design of plant equipment and the like. This technology reduces the display load imposed by representation of a great amount of complicated 3D model shape of a large plant by replacing part data of three-dimensional shape data with simple data and displaying the simple data.

JP 2014-174708

Problem Solved by Invention

Designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant, includes a process of considering how various types of equipment should be laid out in the entire chemical plant, a process of laying out apparatuses while considering details of various types of equipment, and a process of routing pipes. That is, the macro design process of designing the entire chemical plant is performed and then the micro design processes of designing apparatuses and the like are performed. On the other hand, rework, that is, a process of returning from micro design to macro design, changing the design contents, and performing micro design again inevitably occurs in the course of consideration of the design. However, such rework is difficult to handle using a design tool, such as an existing CAD. The reason is that in designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant, elements to be laid out vary between macro design and micro design. Accordingly, such a design tool is not easy to use. Also, when rework occurs after the pipes are routed, the pipes need to be routed again.

Accordingly, the present disclosure describes a technology that allows a user to easily switch between macro design and micro design in designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant.

An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer program used to design a plant and executed by a computer including a processor and a memory. The computer program causes the processor to receive an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user, receive, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed, and receive, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment.

Advantageous Effects of the Invention

According to the present disclosure, the user is able to easily switch between macro design and micro design in designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an equipment layout drawing created using a plant design system. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a plant design system 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional elements of a terminal 10 included in a plant design system 1 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the functional elements of a server 20 included in the plant design system 1 according to the first second embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the data structure of an equipment database 2021, an apparatus database 2022, and a design space database 2023 stored in the server 20. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an operation mode switch process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a pipe route determination process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an operation mode switch process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the initial-state space display screen of the terminal 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the overall mode screen of the terminal 10. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the road edit screen of the terminal 10. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the unit mode screen of the terminal 10. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the pipe route display screen of the terminal 10. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the functional elements of a server 20 included in a plant design system 1 according to a second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the equipment layout screen of a terminal 10. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the equipment layout screen of the terminal 10.

Now, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same parts are given the same reference signs. This also applies to the names and functions. Accordingly, these will not be described in detail repeatedly.
Summary

An Summary of plant design and a plant design system according to the present disclosure will be described below. This plant design system is a system for designing large equipment that produces chemical products through various production processes using chemical reaction in a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant, petrochemical plant, or the like. In the case of an LNG plant, equipment laid out in the plant includes acid gas removal equipment that removes acid gas (H2S, CO2, organic sulfur, etc.) contained in raw-material gas to be liquefied, sulfur recovery equipment that recovers elemental sulfur from the removed acid gas, water removal equipment that removes water contained in the raw-material gas, and equipment that compresses a refrigerant (mixed refrigerant, propane refrigerant, etc.) used to cool or liquefy the raw-material gas. As used herein, the equipment of the plant refers to pieces of equipment and apparatuses installed in accordance with the purpose of that plant.

Designing a large plant as described above includes, for example, the following processes. The first process is to determine the layout of objects corresponding to equipment, apparatuses such as pumps and heat exchangers, and frameworks for routing various types of pipes (pipe racks) in the plant, to determine the route of the main pipe, and to create a layout drawing called a plot plan by designing the layout of the plant. The next process is to lay down process units (a series of production processes) from the reception of raw materials used in the plant to the shipment of products in detail on the basis of the functional requirements of the entire plant, to calculate the material/heat balance per process, and to create a process flow called a process flow diagram (PFD). The further next process is to modify the process calculation by repeating a simulation on the basis of the PFD, to determine the routes of targets to be routed, such as pipes or cables, that are passed through apparatuses in the plant (routing), and to create a piping and instrument diagram (P&ID), which is a detailed instrumentation diagram. The plant design system according to the present disclosure is a 3D CAD system for supporting the design of plant layout, the creation of a process flow, routing, P&ID, and the like in these processes.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of an equipment layout drawing created using the plant design system according to the present disclosure. In the layout drawing of FIG. 1, equipment in which various types of process equipment or utility equipment are installed is laid out as units 100 (shown by solid lines in FIG. 1) at the site at which the plant is constructed, and equipment obtained by dividing each unit 100 on a function, person-in-charge, or apparatus basis is laid out as subunits 200 (shown by dot-dashed lines in FIG. 1) in the unit 100. Gate settings 300 (shown by broken lines in FIG. 1) representing the connection relationships between each unit 100 and the subunits 200 thereof are also laid out. The gate settings 300 refer to the boundary of the construction work range, which is also called “battery limit,” and represent the connection relationships between the pipes. The subunits 200 may be obtained by dividing the unit 100 on a function or person-in-charge basis, or may be obtained by dividing the unit 100 on an apparatus basis. Each subunit 200 may be further divided into multiple pieces of equipment so that it has a multi-level hierarchy structure.

In each process of plant design as described above, the process calculation is modified by repeating a simulation, and thus the plot plan is modified. For this reason, rework occurs each time. That is, it is necessary to review the results of routing of the pipes or the like and to perform routing again. At this time, the gate settings 300 as shown in FIG. 1 may also be influenced, or the plot plan may be modified by returning to the upstream process. In plant design, such rework unavoidably occurs. Accordingly, a 3D CAD system for supporting the design of processes as described above is also preferably able to cope with rework in the upstream process.

In view of the foregoing, the plant design system according to the present disclosure has an overall mode (first operation mode) in which all of a predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, is displayed and equipment (units) is laid out and a unit mode (second operation mode) in which apparatuses constituting the equipment, or subunits (lower-level areas) as described above are laid out and is configured to be able to switch between these modes when necessary. For example, in the overall mode, the plant design system according to the present disclosure lays out objects representing equipment; in the unit mode, it lays out objects representing apparatuses or subunits. Even when the operation mode is switched, the connection relationships between the pipes are maintained by the gate settings representing the connection relationships between the pipes. Thus, even when the user is doing design work in the unit mode in a certain process, the user is able to easily switch to the overall mode and to do design work in an upstream process. A routing process of connecting apparatuses as described above may be performed on entities other than the pipes for transporting fluid in the plant or the cables for supplying power to the apparatuses or transmitting control signals thereto. In the following embodiments, routing of the pipes will be described.

First Embodiment

A plant design system 1 will be described below. In an example described below, a terminal 10 accesses a server 20, the server 20 transmits information for generating a screen on the terminal 10 in response, and the terminal 10 generates and displays a screen on the basis of the information received from the server 20.

1. Overall Configuration of Plant Design System 1
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the plant design system 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the plant design system 1 includes multiple terminals (a terminal 10A and a terminal 10B are shown in FIG. 2; hereafter may be collectively referred to as the “terminals 10”) and the server 20. The terminals 10 and server 20 are communicatively connected through a network 80. The network 80 consists of a wired or wireless network.

The terminals 10 are devices operated by respective users. As used herein, the term “users” refer to persons who use the terminals 10 to perform plant design, which is the function of the plant design system 1. The terminals 10 are realized by desktop personal computers (PCs), laptop PCs, or the like. Alternatively, the terminals 10 may be, for example, tablets that support a mobile communication system, or portable terminals, such as smartphones.

The terminals 10 are communicatively connected to the server 20 through the network 80. The terminals 10 are connected to the network 80 by communicating with a wireless base station 81 that supports a communication standard, such as 5G or Long-Term Evolution (LTE), or a communication device, such as a wireless LAN router 82, that supports a wireless local area network (LAN) standard, such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11. As shown in the terminal 10B of FIG. 2, each terminal 10 includes a communication IF (interface) 12, an input device 13, an output device 14, a memory 15, a storage unit 16, and a processor 19.

The communication IF 12 is an interface through which the terminal 10 receives and outputs signals to communicate with external devices. The input device 13 is an input device (e.g., a keyboard, a touch panel, a touch pad, a pointing apparatus such as a mouse, or the like) for receiving an input operation from the user. The output device 14 is an output device (a display, a speaker, or the like) for presenting information to the user. The memory 15 is a memory that temporarily stores programs, data processed by the programs, and the like and is, for example, a volatile memory, such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The storage unit 16 is a storage apparatus for storing data and is, for example, a flash memory or hard disc drive (HDD). The processor 19 is hardware for executing command sets described in the programs and includes a computing unit, a register, a peripheral circuit, and the like.

The server 20 is a device that causes the plant design system 1 to execute programs that provide services supporting creation of a process flow, routing, P&ID, and the like and manages information on the users used for the above purposes, information on the equipment, information on the subunits (entities obtained by dividing equipment on a function, person-in-charge, or apparatus basis), information on the apparatuses, and information on designed virtual spaces (including ones in the middle of design). The server 20 constructs a three-dimensional virtual space used to design the plant, presents the virtual space to the user, and receives, from the user, input of the types and layout positions of the equipment, subunits, and apparatuses to be laid out on the virtual space, an instruction to route the pipes, and the like. Specifically, for example, the server 20 sets a point of view (virtual camera) on the virtual space used to design the plant, lays out the equipment, subunits, apparatuses, and pipes in accordance with the instruction of the user, makes a rendering of the laid out equipment and the like on the basis of the settings of the virtual camera, and displays the rendering on the terminal 10. The server 20 also lays out objects representing the equipment, subunits, or apparatuses on the virtual space on the basis of the types and layout positions of the equipment, subunits, or apparatuses, determines the routes of the pipes on the basis of the instruction of the user to perform routing on the virtual space, and displays the routing on the terminal of the user.

The server 20 is a computer connected to the network 80. The server 20 includes a communication IF 22, an input/output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29.

The communication IF 22 is an interface through which the server 20 receives and outputs signals to communicate with external devices. The input/output IF 23 serves as an input device for receiving an input operation from the user and an interface with an output device for presenting information to the user. The memory 25 is a memory for temporarily storing programs, data processed by the programs, and the like and is, for example, a volatile memory, such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The storage 26 is a storage device for storing data and is, for example, a flash memory or hard disc drive (HDD). The processor 29 is hardware for executing command sets described in the programs and includes a computing unit, a register, a peripheral circuit, and the like.

1.1 Configuration of Terminal 10
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional elements of a terminal 10 included in the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal 10 includes multiple antennas (antenna 111, antenna 112), wireless communication units corresponding to the antennas (first wireless communication unit 121, second wireless communication unit 122), an operation receiver 130 (including a keyboard 131 and a display 132), a speech processor 140, a microphone 141, a speaker 142, a camera 150, a storage unit 160, and a controller 170. The terminal 10 also includes functions and elements (e.g., a battery for storing power, a power supply circuit that controls power supply from the battery to circuits, etc.) that are not shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the blocks included in the terminal 10 are electrically connected through a bus or the like.

The antenna 111 radiates a signal generated by the terminal 10 as a radio wave. The antenna 111 also receives a radio wave from space and gives the received signal to the first wireless communication unit 121.

The antenna 112 radiates a signal generated by the terminal 10 as a radio wave. The antenna 112 also receives a radio wave from space and gives the received signal to the second wireless communication unit 122.

The first wireless communication unit 121 performs modulation/demodulation or the like when the terminal 10 transmits and receives signals through the antenna 111 to communicate with other wireless devices. The second wireless communication unit 122 performs modulation/demodulation or the like when the terminal 10 transmits and receives signals through the antenna 112 to communicate with other wireless devices. The first wireless communication unit 121 and second wireless communication unit 122 are communication modules each including a tuner, a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) calculation circuit, a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) calculation circuit, a high-frequency circuit, and the like. The first wireless communication unit 121 and second wireless communication unit 122 perform modulation/demodulation or frequency conversion on radio signals transmitted and received by the terminal 10 and give the received signals to the controller 170.

The operation receiver 130 includes a mechanism for receiving an input operation of the user. Specifically, the operation receiver 130 includes the keyboard 131 and display 132. The operation receiver 130 may use, for example, an electrostatic capacitive touch panel so that it is formed as a touchscreen that detects the position in which the user contacts the touch panel.

The keyboard 131 receives an input operation of the user on the terminal 10. The keyboard 131 is a device for inputting characters and outputs information on the inputted characters to the controller 170 as an input signal.

The display 132 displays data, such as images, moving image, or text, in accordance with the control of the controller 170. The display 132 is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or organic electro-luminescence (EL) display.

The speech processor 140 modulates and demodulates speech signals. The speech processor 140 modulates a signal given from the microphone 141 and gives the modulated signal to the controller 170. The speech processor 140 also gives a speech signal to the speaker 142. The speech processor 140 is realized by, for example, a processor for processing speeches. The microphone 141 receives input of a speech and gives a speech signal corresponding to the speech input to the speech processor 140. The speaker 142 converts the speech signal given from the speech processor 140 into a speech and outputs the speech to the outside of the terminal 10.

The camera 150 is a device that captures an image of a subject by receiving light using a photodetector and outputs the captured image. The camera 150 is, for example, a depth camera capable of detecting the distance from the camera 150 to the subject.

The storage unit 160 consists of, for example, a flash memory or the like and stores data and programs used by the terminal 10. In a certain phase, the storage unit 160 stores user information 161.

The user information 161 is information on the user who uses the terminal 10 to perform plant design, which is the function of the plant design system 1. The user information includes information for identifying the user (user ID), the name of the user, information on an organization, such as a company, to which the user belongs, and the like.

The controller 170 controls the operation of the terminal 10 by reading a program stored in the storage unit 160 and executing commands included in the program. The controller 170 is, for example, an application that is previously installed in the terminal 10. The controller 170 serves as an input operation receiver 171, a transmitter/receiver 172, a data processor 173, and a notification controller 174 by operating in accordance with the program.

The input operation receiver 171 receives an input operation of the user on an input device, such as the keyboard 131.

The transmitter/receiver 172 performs a process required for the terminal 10 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device, such as the server 20, in accordance with a communication protocol.

The data processor 173 performs a computation on data whose input the terminal 10 has received, in accordance with a program and outputs the computation result to the memory or the like.

The notification controller 174 presents information to the user. The notification controller 174 performs a process of causing the display 132 to display a display image, a process of causing the speaker 142 to output a speech, a process of causing the camera 150 to generate a vibration, and the like.

1.2 Functional Elements of Server 20
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the functional elements of the server 20 included in the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the server 20 serves as a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a controller 203.

The communication unit 201 performs a process required for the server 20 to communicate with an external device.

The storage unit 202 stores data and programs used by the server 20. The storage unit 202 is storing an equipment database 2021, an apparatus database 2022, a design space database 2023, and the like.

The equipment database 2021 is a database for storing information on equipment laid out in a virtual space presented to design the plant using the plant design system 1. Details will be described later.

The apparatus database 2022 is a database for storing information on apparatuses laid out in a virtual space presented to design the plant using the plant design system 1. Details will be described later.

The design space database 2023 is a database for storing information on virtual spaces designed by the user. Details will be described later.

The controller 203 serves as a reception control module 2031, a transmission control module 2032, an operation mode switch module 2033, an overall mode control module 2034, a unit mode control module 2035, and a pipe routing module 2036 when the processor of the server 20 performs a process in accordance with a program.

The reception control module 2031 controls a process in which the server 20 receives a signal from an external device in accordance with a communication protocol.

The transmission control module 2032 controls a process in which the server 20 transmits a signal to an external device in accordance with a communication protocol.

When the user uses the plant design system 1 to design the plant, the operation mode switch module 2033 controls a process of receiving, from the user, an operation of switching between the overall mode (first operation mode) in which all of the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, is displayed and the equipment (units) is mainly laid out and the unit mode (second operation mode) in which one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment are laid out. For example, in the overall mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 lays out objects representing the equipment; in the unit mode, it lays out objects representing apparatuses or subunits. When the user starts to design or is designing the plant using the terminal 10, the user makes an instruction to switch the operation mode by performing a predetermined operation (e.g., pressing a predetermined button) on the screen displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10. The operation mode switch module 2033 receives the switch instruction and switches the operation mode. Note that the overall mode may be a mode in which the layout of objects corresponding to the apparatuses in the equipment can be edited.

When switching to the overall mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 may display all of the predetermined area in which the plant is designed, that is, may display the predetermined area from a macro point of view and may change the amount of display of details of objects representing apparatuses or subunits, for example, may omit such display.

For example, when switching to the overall mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 may set a point of view (virtual camera) on the virtual space in the overall mode and, at the same time, may refrain from rendering details of objects so that a bird's-eye view of all of the predetermined area in which the plant is designed can be obtained. Or, when switching to the overall mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 may refrain from constructing a three-dimensional virtual space and may display an image showing all of the predetermined area in which the plant is designed so that the user can edit the layout of objects corresponding to the equipment (units) in the predetermined area.

When switching to the unit mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 displays the equipment in an enlarged manner, that is, displays the equipment in a micro point of view and displays details of objects representing the apparatuses or subunits.

A predetermined area in each piece of equipment in the unit mode may be defined as a subunit, and the server 20 may manage such subunits. Also, the server 20 may manage predetermined areas in such subunits as lower-level subunits. Also, in the unit mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 may switch between the display of the subunits (higher-level subunits) and the display of lower-level subunits obtained by dividing each subunit into multiple portions. Also, the operation mode switch module 2033 may switch the unit mode in which the layout of objects corresponding to the apparatuses in each unit is edited to a subunit mode in which the layout of objects corresponding to the apparatuses in each subunit is edited (the second operation mode of a lower level). Also, in the unit mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 may recombine the above adjacent subunits obtained by dividing the units and may handle the recombined subunits as units. Also, in the overall mode, the operation mode switch module 2033 may combine the multiple adjacent units constituting the equipment into larger units.

The operation mode switch module 2033 is able to switch the operation mode even after the pipe routing module 2036 (to be discussed later) routes the pipes. At this time, the operation mode switch module 2033 displays the screen with reference to information on the gate settings representing the connection relationships between the pipes stored in the design space database 2023. Thus, even if the operation mode is switched, the connection relationships between the routed pipes are maintained.

Also, even after the pipes are routed, the overall mode control module 2034 or unit mode control module 2035 (to be discussed later) is able to lay out the equipment, subunits, or apparatuses and to change the layout.

When the connection positions of the pipes are changed due to the layout of the objects or changes in the layout (for example, when the positions of the pipes are shifted due to changes in the layout positions of the apparatuses), the server 20 updates information on the gate settings.

Thus, even when the position relationships between the pipes are shifted, the connection relationships between the pipes are maintained. That is, even when the operation mode is switched, the connection relationships between the pipes are maintained.

The overall mode control module 2034 controls a process of displaying all of the predetermined area in which the plant is designed using the plant design system 1 and receiving an operation of editing the layout of objects corresponding to equipment in the predetermined area from the user.

In the case of an LNG plant, the types of equipment received by the overall mode control module 2034 include the above-mentioned acid gas removal equipment, sulfur recovery equipment, water removal equipment, and compression equipment, as well as a flare stack for burning combustible excess gas, a tank for storing raw materials or products, and an accommodation for workers. The overall mode control module 2034 lays out the equipment, for example, by laying out objects representing the equipment. Note that the overall mode control module 2034 need not lay out the equipment by laying out objects representing the equipment and may lay out the equipment by dividing the units 100 shown in the layout drawing of FIG. 1 on a function, person-in-charge, or apparatus basis using a diagram or may lay out the equipment by selecting particular areas on a plane (by drag operations or the like).

After the operation mode switch module 2033 switches to the overall mode, the user who uses the terminal 10 to design the plant performs an operation of specifying the types and layout positions of the equipment on the virtual space displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10 or editing changes in the sizes, types, or positions of the laid out equipment. The overall mode control module 2034 receives the operation of editing the layout of objects corresponding to the equipment and lays out the equipment or changes the layout on the virtual space.

Even after the pipe routing module 2036 (to be discussed later) routes the pipes, the overall mode control module 2034 receives an operation of editing the layout of objects corresponding to the equipment. At this time, the connection positions of the pipes connected to the equipment may be changed, and, more specifically, the positions of the pipes may be shifted due to changes in the layout positions or the like of the equipment. In this case, the server 20 updates information on the gate settings (the connection relationships between the pipes). Note that the overall mode control module 2034 may omit display of some or all of the routed pipes to ensure the visibility of the equipment or the pipes.

The overall mode control module 2034 also controls a process of editing the layout of roads passed through the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant. For example, construction vehicles used to construct the laid out equipment pass through the plant and therefore it is necessary to construct roads through which raw materials, construction materials, workers, and the like used in the equipment are transported.

For this reason, the overall mode control module 2034 is allowed to lay out roads through which vehicles pass. Examples of the roads that can be laid out by the overall mode control module 2034 include major arterial roads, roads for general passing vehicles, and roads for construction vehicles. The overall mode control module 2034 may display the types of roads such that the types of roads cam be selected in accordance with the types (functions) of adjacent equipment or the separation distances between the pieces of equipment (may recommend roads to be laid out), or automatically select and lay out the types of roads, or may be configured to be able to edit the widths (sizes) or lengths of roads.

The unit mode control module 2035 controls a process of receiving, from the user, an operation of laying out one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment of the plant designed using the plant design system 1.

Examples of apparatuses whose layout the unit mode control module 2035 receives include areas (subunits) obtained by dividing the area (unit) in which each piece of equipment is laid out, for example, on a function or person-in-charge basis and apparatuses laid out in the equipment. Specific examples of the apparatuses laid out in each piece of equipment include a pump, a heat exchanger, a filter, and a valve. The unit mode control module 2035 lays out the apparatuses, for example, by laying out objects representing the apparatuses or subunits.

After the operation mode switch module 2033 switches to the unit mode, the user who uses the terminal 10 to design the plant performs an operation of specifying the types and layout positions of objects representing subunits or apparatuses on the virtual space displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10 or editing changes in the sizes, types, or positions of the laid out objects. The unit mode control module 2035 receives the operation of editing the layout of the objects representing the subunits or apparatuses, lays out the objects on the virtual space, and changes the positions, types, or the like of the objects.

Even after the pipe routing module 2035 (to be discussed later) routes the pipes, the unit mode control module 2035 receives an operation of laying out the apparatuses or subunits. At this time, the connection positions of the pipes connected to the objects may be changed, and, more specifically, the positions of the pipes may be shifted due to changes in the layout positions or the like of the apparatuses or subunits. In this case, the unit mode control module 2035 updates information on the gate settings (the connection relationships between the pipes).

When updating information on the gate settings, the unit mode control module 2035 may cause the user to determine which of the gate settings in the unit mode and the gate settings in the overall mode should be given a higher priority. Or, the unit mode control module 2035 may be previously configured to be able to determine which should be given a higher priority. This also applies to the gate settings between the higher level and lower level of the hierarchical structure of each subunit (to be discussed later).

The unit mode control module 2035 may receive an operation of editing individual apparatuses as described above, or may receive an operation of editing groups of apparatuses called “block patterns” in which associated pipes or associated apparatuses are previously laid out near the apparatuses.

The associated pipes are, for example, pipes previously laid out near the apparatuses. The associated apparatuses are, for example, valves previously laid out near the apparatuses or instruments such as flowmeters. The unit mode control module 2035 may be configured to be able to edit the types, number, and layout (longitudinal and lateral) of the apparatuses, the lengths, angles, and fluid suction/discharge port positions of the associated pipes, and the like, or may be configured to be able to edit those using parameters inputted by the user.

The unit mode control module 2035 may be configured to, when the operation mode switch module 2033 switches between the higher level and lower level of a hierarchical structure obtained by further dividing each subunit into multiple elements, be able to select ones that can be laid out, among subunits or apparatuses of the specified level.

The pipe routing module 2036 controls a process of receiving, from the user, an operation of making an instruction to determine the routes (routing) of the pipes connecting the pieces of equipment or apparatuses laid out in the plant.

Examples of the pipes laid out in the plant include a pipe through which raw-material gas is transported in the plant, a pipe through which an absorbent for absorbing components removed from the raw-material gas is transported, and a pipe through which exhaust gas is transported. The pipes are laid out so that the fluid of liquid or gas passes therethrough.

For example, the user specifies, as portions (connection points) for pipe routing, predetermined portions of the equipment or apparatuses (e.g., the gate settings of the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits, end points of the associated pipes of the apparatuses) laid out in the virtual space on the screen of the display 132 of the terminal 10. When routing the pipes, the pipes are routed between the pieces of equipment or apparatuses so as to connect these portions. The server 20 receives this specification and also receives an operation of making an instruction to route the pipes (e.g., a press of a predetermined button on the screen) from the user. In response to the instruction to route the pipes, the pipe routing module 2036 routes the pipes.

The pipe routing module 2036 may be configured to able to set, as portions (connection points) for pipe routing, predetermined portions of other apparatuses not constituting the equipment laid out in the virtual space, for example, predetermined portions of apparatuses that fall outside the range of the equipment and are not included in the equipment, and predetermined portions of the apparatuses included in the equipment and may determine the routes of the pipes considering these connection points.

The pipe routing module 2036 may route the pipes on the basis of information on detailed input made by the user on the virtual space (so-called manual routing), or may perform automatic routing on the basis of the start/end points specified by the user. At this time, the direction of pipe routing is determined under predetermined conditions, and automatic routing is performed by an algorithm that avoids the existing equipment, apparatuses, or pipes. The pipe routing module 2036 may also be configured to route pipes having a diameter, material properties, or the like specified by parameters inputted by the user, or previously set parameters, or may be configured to recommend pipes having a diameter or material properties most suitable to fluid that is to flow therethrough, to the user. The pipe routing module 2036 may perform pipe routing also on a range not displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10 depending on the operation mode.

2. Data Structure
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the data structure of the equipment database 2021, apparatus database 2022, and design space database 2023 stored in the server 20.

As shown in FIG. 5, each record in the equipment database 2021 includes an item “equipment ID,” an item “equipment type,” an item “BIM model data,” and the like.

The item “equipment ID” is information for identifying an equipment type selectable in the overall mode of the plant design system 1.

The item “equipment type” is names representing equipment types and is storing information on names representing types, such as acid gas removal equipment, sulfur recovery equipment, water removal equipment, and compression equipment. The names representing the types of the equipment may be symbols specified by a predetermined standard or the like, or may be model numbers or the like specified by manufacturers.

The item “BIM model data” is information indicating the objects of the equipment laid out in the virtual space and indicating the data name (file name) of model data and is model data used by the plant design system 1. The plant design system 1 including the server 20 constructs a three-dimensional virtual space and performs modeling that represents the shapes of the equipment, subunits, apparatuses, or pipes on the three-dimensional virtual space. The plant design system 1 also sets a point of view (virtual camera) on the virtual space and renders the equipment, subunits, apparatuses, or pipes on the basis of the settings of the virtual camera. The model data stored in the item “BIM model data” is model data used to render the actual equipment from the point of view of the predetermined virtual camera.

Although not shown, the equipment database 2021 may store information on editable items of the equipment that can be laid out using the plant design system 1.

Each record in the apparatus database 2022 includes an item “apparatus ID,” an item “apparatus type,” an item “BIM model data,” and the like.

The item “apparatus ID” is information for identifying apparatus types selectable in the unit mode of the plant design system 1.

The item “apparatus type” is names representing apparatus types and is storing, for example, information on the names of apparatuses laid out in the plant and, more specifically, information on the names of apparatuses, such as a pump, a heat exchanger, a filter, and a valve. The names representing the apparatus types may be symbols specified by a predetermined standard or the like, or may be model numbers or the like specified by a manufacturer.

The item “BIM model data” is information indicating the objects of the apparatuses laid out in the virtual space using the plant design system 1 and indicating the data name (file name) of model data and is model data used by the plant design system 1. The model data stored in the item “BIM model data” is model data used to render the actual subunits or apparatuses from the point of view of the predetermined virtual camera.

Although not shown, the apparatus database 2022 may store information on editable items (parameters) of apparatuses that can be laid out using the plant design system 1 .

Each record in the design space database 2023 includes an item “space ID,” an item “user ID,” an item “in-space pipe information,” and the like.

The item “space ID” is information for identifying information on virtual spaces designed by the user using the plant design system 1.

The item “user ID” is information for identifying users that use the plant design system 1.

The item “in-space pipe information” is information on objects representing the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits laid out in the virtual space by the user using the plant design system 1 and the routed pipes. Specifically, the item “in-space pipe information” includes an item “relative coordinates,” an item “laid out object,” an item “detailed information (parameter),” and the like.

The item “relative coordinates” is information indicating the relative positions in the virtual space of objects representing the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits laid out in the virtual space and is storing, for example, data on three-dimensional coordinates in the virtual space. The relative coordinates are, for example, relative coordinates of positions serving as the references of objects (e.g., positions serving as the centers or end points in one of the six directions) in a virtual space represented by XYZ coordinates, but are not limited to this type.

The item “laid out objects” is information indicating objects laid out in the virtual space and corresponds to the item “equipment ID” in the equipment database 2021, or the item “apparatus ID” in the apparatus database 2022.

The item “detailed information (parameter)” is information indicating edit information when the objects laid out in the virtual space are edited and is storing, for example, the edit parameters of the apparatuses in the unit mode.

Although not shown, the design space database 2023 may store information on the pipes routed by the pipe routing module 2036 or information on the gate settings.

The overall mode control module 2034 or unit mode control module 2035 of the server 20 receives information on the layout of objects from each user and lays out the objects in the virtual space, as well as updates the design space database 2023 by adding records thereto. The pipe routing module 2036 routes the pipes, as well as updates the design space database 2023 by adding records thereto.

3. Operation
Referring now to FIGS. 6 to 8, an operation mode switch process and pipe route determination process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the operation mode switch process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment.

In step S121, the controller 203 of the server 20 receives input of the types and layout positions of objects laid out in the virtual space in which plant design is performed. In response, the controller 203 transmits an instruction to display an initial-state space to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201.

In step S111, the transmitter/receiver 172 of the terminal 10 receives information on the instruction to display the initial-state space transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays the initial-state space on the display 132. Information on the initial-state space may be transmitted to the terminal 10 by the controller 203 of the server 20, or may be previously stored in the terminal 10.

In step S112, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives, from the user, input of an instruction to switch between the overall mode in which the layout of objects corresponding to equipment is edited, and the unit mode in which the layout of objects in the equipment is edited. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits information on the received switch instruction and user information to the server 20. The transmitter/receiver 172 then receives information on an instruction to switch to the operation mode specified by the user transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays a space in the operation mode specified by the user on the display 132. Assuming that the overall mode has been specified, the following processes will be described.

In step S122, the operation mode switch module 2033 of the server 20 receives the information on the switch instruction transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 and transmits information on an instruction to switch to the specified operation mode to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 on the basis of the received information on the switch instruction.

In step S113, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives, from the user, input of the types and layout positions of equipment in the virtual space indicating all of the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, displayed on the display 132. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits information on the received input of the types and layout positions of the equipment to the server 20. The transmitter/receiver 172 then receives information on an instruction to display the equipment on the virtual space transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays, on the display 132, a state in which the equipment specified by the user is laid out in the virtual space.

In step S123, the overall mode control module 2034 of the server 20 receives the information on the input of the types and layout positions of the equipment transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201. The overall mode control module 2034 transmits information on an instruction to display the equipment in the virtual space to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 on the basis of the received information on the types and layout positions of the equipment. The overall mode control module 2034 stores the received information on the types and layout positions of the equipment in the design space database 2023.

In step S114, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives input of an instruction to switch between the overall mode and unit mode, from the user. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits information on the received switch instruction and user information to the server 20. The transmitter/receiver 172 then receives information on an instruction to switch to the operation mode specified by the user transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays a space in the operation mode specified by the user on the display 132. Assuming that the unit mode has been specified, the following processes will be described.

In step S124, the operation mode switch module 2033 of the server 20 receives information on the switch instruction transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201. The operation mode switch module 2033 transmits information on an instruction to switch to the specified operation mode to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 on the basis of the received information on the switch instruction.

In step S115, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives, from the user, input of the types and layout positions of objects representing the apparatuses or subunits constituting the equipment of the plant displayed on the display 132 and parameters used to edit the objects. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits, to the server 20, information on the received input of the types and layout positions of the objects and the parameters used to edit the objects. The transmitter/receiver then 172 receives information on an instruction to display the objects in the virtual space transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays, on the display 132, a state in which the objects specified by the user are laid out in the virtual space.

In step S125, the unit mode control module 2035 of the server 20 receives information on the input of the types and layout positions of the objects and the parameters used to edit the objects transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201. The unit mode control module 2035 transmits information on an instruction to display the objects in the virtual space to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 on the basis of the received information on the types and layout positions of the objects and the parameters used to edit the objects. The unit mode control module 2035 also stores, in the design space database 2023, the received information on the types and layout positions of the objects and the parameters used to edit the objects.

As seen above, when the user of the plant design system 1 inputs the instruction to switch between the overall mode (first operation mode) in which all of the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, is displayed and the layout of objects corresponding to the equipment is edited and the unit mode (second operation mode) in which the layout of the objects representing the apparatuses or subunits constituting the equipment of the plant is edited, the operation mode is switched to the overall mode or the unit mode on the basis of the switch instruction. Thus, the user is able to easily switch between macro design and micro design when designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a pipe route determination process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. The pipe route determination process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is a process obtained by adding steps S211 and S221 and subsequent steps to the operation mode switch process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 as steps subsequent to steps S115 and S125. For this reason, the overlapping steps will not be described repeatedly. Note that steps S111 to S114 and steps S121 to S124 are not shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7.

In step S211, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives, from the user, input of specifying predetermined portions of the equipment or apparatuses laid out in the virtual space displayed on the display 132 (e.g., the gate settings of the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits, end points of the associated pipes of the apparatuses) as the start/end points of pipe routing. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits information on the received input of the start/end points of pipe routing to the server 20. The transmitter/receiver then 172 receives information on an instruction to highlight the start/end points of pipe routing transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays, on the display 132, a state in which the start/end points of pipe routing specified by the user are highlighted.

In step S221, the pipe routing module 2036 of the server 20 receives the information on the input of the start/end points of pipe routing transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201. The pipe routing module 2036 transmits information on an instruction to highlight the specified start/end points of pipe routing to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 on the basis of the received information on the start/end points of pipe routing.

In step S212, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives, from the user, information on input of an instruction to route the pipes in the virtual space displayed on the display 132 and input of parameters (pipe diameter, material properties, etc.) used for pipe routing. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits the received information on the pipe routing instruction to the server 20.

In step S222, the pipe routing module 2036 of the server 20 receives the information on the pipe routing instruction and the information on the input of the parameters used for pipe routing transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201. Note that the pipe routing module 2036 may acquire information on the parameters used for pipe routing from previously set information stored in the storage unit 202.

In step S223, the pipe routing module 2036 of the server 20 determines the routes of the pipes on the basis of the start/end points of pipe routing received in step S221 and the information on the parameters used for pipe routing acquired in step S222. At this time, automatic routing may be performed by a predetermined algorithm.

In step S224, the pipe routing module 2036 of the server 20 transmits information on the determined pipe routes and information on an instruction to display the pipe routes to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201.

In step S214, the transmitter/receiver 172 receives the information on the pipe routes and the information on the instruction to display the pipe routes transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays, on the display 132, a state in which the pipes are routed.

In step S225, the pipe routing module 2036 of the server 20 stores the information on the determined pipe routes in the design space database 2023.

As seen above, the user of the plant design system 1 inputs specification of the start/end points of pipe routing and makes the pipe routing instruction, and the routes of the pipes passing through the start/end points of pipe routing are determined on the basis of the parameters used for pipe routing inputted by the user or previously set and displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10. Thus, the user is able to design the routes of the pipes on the basis of the conditions specified by the user and to design the routes of the pipes appropriately by changing the conditions.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an operation mode switch process performed by the plant design system 1 according to the first embodiment. The operation mode switch process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is a process obtained by adding steps S311 and S321 and subsequent steps to the operation mode switch process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 as steps subsequent to steps S214 and S224. For this reason, the overlapping steps will not be described repeatedly. Note that steps S211 to S213 and steps S221 to S223 are not shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8.

In step S311, the input operation receiver 171 of the terminal 10 receives, from the user, input of an instruction to switch between the overall mode and unit mode. The transmitter/receiver 172 transmits information on the received switch instruction and user information to the server 20.

In step S321, the operation mode switch module 2033 of the server 20 receives the information on the switch instruction transmitted from the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201. The operation mode switch module 2033 acquires pipe routing information and the gate settings of the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits stored in the design space database 2023.

In step S124, the operation mode switch module 2033 of the server 20 transmits information on an instruction to switch to the specified operation mode to the terminal 10 through the communication unit 201 on the basis of the information on the switch instruction received in step S321. At this time, the operation mode switch module 2033 transmits the pipe routing information and the gate settings of the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits acquired in step S321 and also transmits information on an instruction to display the pipes.

In step S312, the transmitter/receiver 172 of the terminal 10 receives information on the instruction to switch to the operation mode specified by the user transmitted from the server 20. The notification controller 174 displays a space in the operation mode specified by the user on the display 132. At this time, the notification controller 174 displays the pipes on the display 132 on the basis of the pipe routing information and the gate settings of the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits transmitted in step S322 .

As seen above, the user of the plant design system 1 inputs the instruction to switch between the overall mode and unit mode, and the operation mode is switched to the overall mode or unit mode on the basis of the switch instruction. At this time, the pipes are displayed on the basis of the pipe routing information and the gate settings of the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits. Even when the layout of objects corresponding to the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits is changed and thus the connection positions of the pipes are changed, information on the gate settings is updated and the connection relationships between the pipes are maintained. Thus, the user is able to easily switch between macro design and micro design when designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant, and to cope with the rework or review of the design.

4. Example Screen
Referring now to FIGS. 9 to 13, screen examples of an operation mode switch process and pipe route determination process performed by the plant design system 1 will be described.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a screen example in which an initial-state space is displayed on the terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 9 shows a state in which an initial-state virtual space for receiving input of the types and layout positions of objects is displayed on the terminal 10 of the user. This corresponds to step S115 of FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 9, an initial-state virtual space 1031a is displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10 as a grid input screen. Objects representing one or more pieces of equipment, apparatuses, or subunits can be inputted to any position of the grid virtual space 1031a. A menu display field is disposed on an upper portion of the display 132, and a mode switch button 1031b used to make an instruction to switch between the overall mode and unit mode is disposed in the menu display field. By pressing the mode switch button 1031b, a list of selectable operation modes is displayed in a pull-down form so that the operation mode can be selected.

When the user selects any position of the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9, for example, by clicking on the position, and moves the position by dragging it, the displays range or orientation of the virtual space 1031a is moved. For example, when the position is moved in the up-down or left-right direction, the display range is moved in accordance with the movement; when the position is rotationally moved, the display range is rotated. While the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 is flat, it can be displayed three-dimensionally as shown in FIGS. 12 and the like by rotating it. Also, a direction display field 1031c is disposed so that the compass direction (east, west, south, or north) of the display direction is recognized when the display range is rotated and is configured to move in accordance with the rotation of the virtual space 1031a.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen example in the overall mode of the terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 10 shows a state in which equipment is laid out in the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with an operation of the user. This corresponds to step S113 of FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 10, equipment 1032a is laid out and displayed in a grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 on the display 132 of FIG. 10. Also, an equipment selection field 1032b that allows the user to select among equipment types stored in the equipment database 2021 is disposed on the right side of the display 132. The equipment 1032a is stored in the equipment database 2021 and is, for example, acid gas removal equipment, sulfur recovery equipment, water removal equipment, or compression equipment.

When the user selects (e.g., clicks on) any position of the virtual space as the position in which the equipment is to be laid out, the equipment selection field 1032b appears. When the user selects (e.g., clicks on) one from the displayed equipment types, the selected equipment 1032a appears as shown in FIG. 10. When the user selects the equipment 1032a, an editable parameter input field appears on the right side. The user is able to edit the equipment 1032a (e.g., change the size or angle) by inputting a parameter.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the road edit screen of the terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 11 shows a state in which equipment is laid out in a virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 10 and the layout of roads is edited in the overall mode. This corresponds to step S113 of FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 11, a road 1033b passing through equipment 1033a is laid out and displayed in the virtual space similar to the virtual space shown in FIG. 10 on the display 132 of the terminal 10. A field 1033c for inputting a parameter with which the road 1033b can be edited is disposed on the right side of the display 132.

The road 1033b may be laid out in accordance with an instruction inputted by the user, or may be automatically laid out. The parameter input field 1033c is configured such that the type of the road 1033b can be selected from, for example, a major arterial road, a road for general passing vehicles, and a road for construction vehicles. It is also configured such that the road width, length, lane number, the separation distance from the equipment, and the like can be edited.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a screen example in the unit mode of the terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 12 shows a state in which an object is laid out in a grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with an operation of the user. This corresponds to step S115 of FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 12, a block pattern 1034a, which is an example of an object, is laid out and displayed in the grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 on the display 132 of FIG. 10. An object selection field 1032b that allows the user to select among the types of objects (block patterns) stored in the apparatus database 2022 is disposed on the right side of the display 132. The block pattern 1034a is, for example, an object in which an associated pipe or associated apparatus is disposed near an apparatus, such as a pump, heat exchanger, filter, or valve, and is stored in the apparatus database 2022.

When the user selects (e.g., clicks on) any position of the virtual space as the position in which an object is to be laid out, the object selection field 1034b appears. When the user selects (e.g., clicking on) one from the displayed object types, the selected block pattern 1034a appears as shown in FIG. 12. When the user selects the block pattern 1034a, an editable parameter input field appears on the right side. The user is able to edit the block pattern 1034a (e.g., change the number or layout of the apparatuses) by inputting a parameter. Note that fluid suction/discharge ports (also referred to as the suction pipe and discharge pipe) disposed on the associated pipe of the block pattern 1034a may be displayed in different aspects (e.g., different colors or images).

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the pipe route display screen of the terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 13 shows a state in which a pipe route passing between selected start and end points is determined and displayed in a virtual space displayed on the terminal 10 of the user in accordance with an operation of the user. This corresponds to step S214 of FIG. 7.

As shown in FIG. 13, a routed pipe route 1035c is displayed between an end point 1035a of the associated pipe of a block pattern similar to the block pattern 1034a shown in FIG. 12 and an end point 1035b of the associated pipe of another block pattern on the display 132 of the terminal 10.

The user selects the end point 1035a shown in FIG. 13 as the start point (connection position) and selects the end point 1035b as the end point (connection position) (the start point and end point may be reversed). When the user performs pipe routing in this state, the pipe route 1035c is determined and displayed. At this time, the direction of pipe routing is determined under predetermined conditions, automatic routing is performed by an algorithm that avoids existing equipment, apparatuses, or pipes, and the pipe route 1035c is determined. Note that when the user selects the end point 1035a as the start point and selects the end point 1035b as the end point, the end point 1035a and end point 1035b may be displayed in different aspects (e.g., different colors or images).

Summary
As seen above, when the plant design system 1 according to the present embodiment receives the instruction to switch between the overall mode (first operation mode) in which all of the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, is displayed and the equipment is laid out and the unit mode (second operation mode) in which the layout of the objects representing one or more apparatuses constituting equipment is edited, it switches between these operation modes. When switching to the overall mode, it displays all of the predetermined area in which the plant is designed, that is, displays the predetermined area in a macro form. When switching to the unit mode, it displays the equipment in an enlarged form, that is, displays the equipment in a micro form. Thus, the user is able to easily switch between macro design and micro design when designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant.

Also, the plant design system 1 according to the present embodiment routes the pipes such that the pipes pass through the start/end points of routing, on the basis of an instruction of the user or previously set parameters for pipe routing. Thus, the user is able to easily perform the design of pipe routes essential for the design of a facility, such as a chemical plant.

Also, when the operation mode is switched to the overall mode or the unit mode in accordance with an instruction of the user with the pipe-routed virtual space displayed, the pipes are displayed on the basis of the pipe routing information and the gate settings of the objects representing the equipment, apparatuses, or subunits. Even if the layout of the objects is changed and the connection positions of the pipes are changed, information on the gate settings is updated and the connection relationships between the pipes are maintained. Thus, when designing a large facility, such as a chemical plant, the user is able to easily switch between macro design and micro design and to cope with the rework or review of design.

Second Embodiment
Another embodiment of the plant design system 1 will be described below.

1. Overall Configuration of Plant Design System 1
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the functional elements of a server 20 included in a plant design system 1 according to a second embodiment. The overall configuration of the plant design system 1 according to the second embodiment and the configuration of terminals 10 are similar to those of the first embodiment and therefore will not be described repeatedly. The configuration of the server 20 is similar to that of the first embodiment except that the server 20 newly has the function of a layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037, as shown in FIG. 14. Hereafter, the function of the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 according to the second embodiment will be described.

When laying out equipment in a predetermined area, which is the site of a plant designed using the plant design system 1, the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 controls a process of displaying an area in which new layout of objects corresponding to equipment is prohibited in relation to already laid out equipment. A separation distance has to be set between one piece of equipment and another piece of equipment. The separation distance is set in accordance with the functions of the equipment and in consideration of safety, accessibility for allowing persons to pass, and functionality for constructing a road.

For this reason, when the user attempts to lay out equipment, the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 determines the separation distance set on already laid out equipment and displays an equipment layout-prohibited area in an aspect different from other areas (for example, in a different color or with a waring indication).

Also, in the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, a particular type of equipment cannot be laid out on the downstream side of the wind direction of another particular type of equipment in relation with the wind direction in this area. For example, the predetermined area, which is the site of the plant, includes an area in which permanent winds such as westerlies blow. In this case, it is necessary to lay out equipment considering the wind direction. As an example, a flare stack for burning combustible excess gas or a tank for storing raw materials or products is laid out on the downstream side, and an accommodation for workers is laid out on the upstream side.

For this reason, when the user attempts to lay out equipment, the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 determines the relationships between the wind direction and already laid out equipment and displays an equipment layout-prohibited area in an aspect different from other areas (for example, in a different color or with a waring indication).

Information on the separation distances to be set between particular types of equipment and other particular types of equipment and information on particular types of equipment that cannot be installed in relation to other particular types of equipment due to the wind direction is stored in, for example, the equipment database 2021, and the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 determines an equipment layout-prohibited area with reference to the equipment database 2021.

2. Data Structure
The data structure according to the second embodiment is similar to that according to the first embodiment and therefore will not be described repeatedly.

3. Operation
The operation according to the second embodiment is similar to that according to the first embodiment and therefore will not be described repeatedly.

4. Example Screen
Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 16, a screen example of an equipment layout process according to the second embodiment will be described.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the equipment layout screen of a terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 15 shows a state in which equipment is about to be laid out in a grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with an operation of the user. This corresponds to step S113 of FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 15, a state in which the user is about to lay out equipment 1036a in the grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display 132 of the terminal 10. At this time, already installed equipment 1036b is displayed, and an area 1036c in which the equipment 1036a cannot be installed in relation to the equipment 1036b is displayed, for example, in a color different from that of the virtual space.

When the user attempts to lay out the equipment 1036a by dragging it, the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 determines the separation distance to be set between the equipment 1036a and equipment 1036b with reference to the equipment database 2021, determines the area 1036c, which is the range in which the equipment 1036a cannot be installed, and displays it on the display 132. Note that a different indication (e.g., a pop-up warning screen) may further be given when the user actually attempts to lay out the equipment 1036a in the area 1036c.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the equipment layout screen of the terminal 10. The screen example of FIG. 16 shows a state in which equipment is about to be laid out in a grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with an operation of the user. This corresponds to step S113 of FIG. 6.

As shown in FIG. 16, a state in which the user is about to lay out equipment 1037a in the grid virtual space similar to the virtual space 1031a shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display 132 of FIG. 10. At this time, already installed equipment 1037b is displayed, and an area 1037c in which the equipment 1037a cannot be laid out in relation to the equipment 1037b is displayed, for example, in a color different from that of the virtual space.

When the user attempts to lay out the equipment 1037a by dragging it, the layout-prohibited area presentation module 2037 determines the area 1037c, which is the range in which the equipment 1037a cannot be laid out in relation to the wind direction set on the virtual space and the equipment 1037b, with reference to the equipment database 2021 and displays it on the display 132. Note that the wind direction can be set in the virtual space and an indication indicating the wind direction (e.g., an image of a weathercock or the like) may be given on the display 132.

Summary
As seen above, when the user attempts to lay out the equipment, the plant design system 1 according to the present embodiment displays the area in which the equipment cannot be laid out in relation to the already installed equipment or the wind direction. Thus, the user is able to lay out equipment more appropriately.

While the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the embodiments can be modified in various manners, that is, various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made to the embodiments. The embodiments and such modifications fall within the technical scope of the claims and equivalents thereof.

Supplementary Notes
The matters described in the embodiments are described as Supplementary Notes below.

Supplementary Note 1
A computer program used to design a plant and executed by a computer including a processor (29) and a memory (25), the computer program causing the processor (29) to receive an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user (S122, S124), receive, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment (100) in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed (S123), and receive, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses (200) constituting the equipment (S125).

Supplementary Note 2
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 1) 1, wherein the computer program is a program that routes pipes, and the computer program causes the processor to route the pipes between the pieces of equipment or the apparatuses in accordance with an instruction of a user who designs the plant (S222 to S223).

Supplementary Note 3
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 2), wherein the routing the pipes includes setting apparatuses not included in the equipment as connection points of the routes and routing the pipes considering the connection points.

Supplementary Note 4
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 2) or (Supplementary Note 3), wherein after routes of the pipes are determined, connection relationships (300) between the pipes and positions thereof between the pieces of equipment or the apparatuses are stored in the memory (25), and even when switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode, the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof are maintained.

Supplementary Note 5
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 2) to (Supplementary Note 4), wherein according to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the computer program causes the processor to display objects corresponding to the equipment or the apparatuses or displaying the pipes (S122, S124, S224).

Supplementary Note 6
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 5), wherein according to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the amount of display of the objects corresponding to the apparatuses or the pipes is changed.

Supplementary Note 7
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 3) to (Supplementary Note 6), wherein in any of the first operation mode and the second operation mode, an operation is received even after routes of the pipes are determined, and when the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof are changed, the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof stored in the memory are changed.

Supplementary Note 8
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 3) to (Supplementary Note 7), wherein an area in which the equipment is laid out is divided into multiple lower-level areas, the second operation mode has a structure including one or more levels corresponding to a configuration of the lower-level areas, in the second operation mode of a lower level, an operation is received even after routes of the pipes are determined, when the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof are changed, the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof stored in the memory are changed, and when switching to the second operation mode of a higher level, the pipes are displayed on the basis of the changed connection relationships between the pipes and the changed positions thereof.

Supplementary Note 9
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 2) to (Supplementary Note 8), wherein the routing includes routing the pipes in a range that is not displayed as the predetermined area.

Supplementary Note 10
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 2) to (Supplementary Note 9), wherein the routing includes determining routes of cables in place of the pipes.

Supplementary Note 11
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 10), wherein when switching to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, a display range of the predetermined area is changed.

Supplementary Note 12
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 11), wherein in the first operation mode, an operation of laying out a road passing through the predetermined area is received.

Supplementary Note 13
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 12), wherein an operation of editing a size of the road on the basis of functions of the equipment is received.

Supplementary Note 14
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 13), wherein in the first operation mode, an area in which the equipment cannot be laid out in relation to the already laid out equipment is displayed.

Supplementary Note 15
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 14), wherein the area in which the equipment cannot be laid out is displayed on the basis of a separation distance to be set between the already laid out equipment and the equipment that are about to be laid out.

Supplementary Note 16
The computer program of (Supplementary Note 14) or (Supplementary Note 15), wherein the area in which the equipment cannot be laid out is displayed on the basis of the already laid out equipment and a wind direction set on the predetermined area.

Supplementary Note 17
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 16), wherein in the second operation mode, an operation of laying out, as the objects corresponding to the apparatuses, objects including one or more of apparatuses laid out in the plant, associated pipes laid out near the apparatuses, and associated apparatuses disposed in association with the apparatuses is received.

Supplementary Note 18
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 17), wherein the computer program causes the processor to combine, in the first operation mode, areas occupied by the adjacent equipment (100).

Supplementary Note 19
The computer program of any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 18), wherein the computer program causes the processor to combine, in the second operation mode, adjacent lower-level areas obtained by dividing an area occupied by the equipment (100).

Supplementary Note 2
An information processing device including a controller (203) and a storage unit (202), wherein the controller receives an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user (S122, S124), receives, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment (100) in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed (2034), and receives, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment (2035).

Supplementary Note 21
A method used to design a plant and executed by a computer including a processor (29) and a memory (25), wherein the processor (29) receives an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user (S122, S124), receives, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment (100) in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed (S123), and receives, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses (200) constituting the equipment (S125).

10 terminal, 20 server, 80 network, 130 operation receiver, 161 user information, 22 communication IF, 23 input/output IF, 25 memory, 26 storage, 29 processor, 201 communication unit, 202 storage unit, 2021 equipment database, 2022 apparatus database, 2023 design space database, 203 controller, 301 communication unit, 302 storage unit, 303 controller

Claims

A computer program used to design a plant and executed by a computer comprising a processor and a memory, the computer program causing the processor to:
receive an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user;
receive, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed; and
receive, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment.
The computer program of claim 1, wherein
the computer program is a program that routes pipes, and
the computer program causes the processor to:
specify start points and end points of the apparatuses; and
route the pipes on the basis of the start points and the end points.
The computer program of claim 2, wherein
the routing the pipes comprises setting apparatuses included in the equipment and any apparatuses not included in the equipment as connection points of the routes and routing the pipes considering the connection points.
The computer program of claim 1 or 2, wherein
after routes of the pipes are determined, connection relationships between the pipes and positions thereof between the pieces of equipment or the apparatuses are stored in the memory, and
even when switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode, the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof are maintained.
The computer program of claim 1 or 3, wherein
according to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the computer program causes the processor to display objects corresponding to the equipment or the apparatuses or displaying the pipes.
The computer program of claim 5, wherein according to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the amount of display of the objects corresponding to the apparatuses or the pipes is changed.
The computer program of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein
in any of the first operation mode and the second operation mode, an operation is received even after routes of the pipes are determined, and
when the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof are changed, the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof stored in the memory are changed.
The computer program of any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein
an area in which the equipment is laid out is divided into a plurality of lower-level areas,
the second operation mode has a structure including one or more levels corresponding to a configuration of the lower-level areas,
in the second operation mode of a lower level, an operation is received even after routes of the pipes are determined,
when the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof are changed, the connection relationships between the pipes and the positions thereof stored in the memory are changed, and
when switching to the second operation mode of a higher level, the pipes are displayed on the basis of the changed connection relationships between the pipes and the changed positions thereof.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the routing comprises routing the pipes in a range that is not displayed as the predetermined area.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the routing comprises determining routes of cables in place of the pipes.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when switching to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, a display range of the predetermined area is changed.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein in the first operation mode, an operation of laying out a road passing through the predetermined area is received.
The computer program of claim 12, wherein an operation of editing a size of the road on the basis of functions of the equipment is received.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein in the first operation mode, an area in which the equipment cannot be laid out in relation to the already laid out equipment is displayed.
The computer program of claim 14, wherein the area in which the equipment cannot be laid out is displayed on the basis of a separation distance to be set between the already laid out equipment and the equipment that is about to be laid out.
The computer program of claim 14 or 15, wherein the area in which the equipment cannot be laid out is displayed on the basis of the already laid out equipment and a wind direction set on the predetermined area.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein in the second operation mode, an operation of laying out, as the objects corresponding to the apparatuses, objects comprising one or more of apparatuses laid out in the plant, associated pipes laid out near the apparatuses, and associated apparatuses disposed in association with the apparatuses is received.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the computer program causes the processor to combine, in the first operation mode, areas occupied by the adjacent equipment.
The computer program of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the computer program causes the processor to combine, in the second operation mode, adjacent lower-level areas obtained by dividing an area occupied by the equipment.
An information processing device comprising:
a controller; and
a storage unit, wherein
the controller:
receives an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user;
receives, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed; and
receives, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment.
A method used to design a plant and executed by a computer comprising a processor and a memory, wherein
the processor:
receives an operation of switching between a first operation mode and a second operation mode from a user;
receives, in the first operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to equipment in a predetermined area in which the plant is designed; and
receives, in the second operation mode, an operation of editing layout of objects corresponding to one or more apparatuses constituting the equipment.