Design methods are discussed and the progress through the use of models to CAD outlined. A wholly 3D system, PDMS developed by the CAD Centre, Cambridge in collaboration with Isopipe Limited and AKZO is described, with its implications on design accuracy, the use of models and the cost of design.
Impending British legislation, stemming from the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, is noted and a method of storing and retrieving the required records is st~qaested.
Process industry plants have a life of not less than 15 years from construction approval to obsolescence, and the data to be used can be separated into that required for the life of the plant, and that of transitory interest during construction.
All data can have a common format, however, and as a plant item can retain its identity, e.g. on E 402 heat exchanger through flowsheet, P and I diagram, model, plant layout, general arrangement, material schedule and physical identification on site. So can all piping, valves and components, provided the data is organized logically.
The arrival of computer techniques has made possible the collection and storage of all data, its display in 3D or perspective with or without hidden-line removal and its retrieval when required. It can also be updated or altered from as designed either during or subsequent to construction.