Data Development of Gas Distribution Network System

Conversion of hard copy maps and their associated attribute information

Background and Objectives

The client is one of largest public services companies in the State of Indiana responsible for gas distribution. Magnasoft, as a subcontractor assisted the gas company in converting the hard copy maps and the associated attribute information in order to develop an AM/FM system.

Key Aspects of the Project

• Graphical legacy data conversion of gas network
• Automated tool development
  
  

Services Rendered & Methodology

• Production planning and source data compilation
  • Production schedules were defined and the placement rules and guidelines for data capture and conversion were complied as per specific requirements
  • Source documents included paper maps, reports and guidelines for feature   placement and annotation/dimensioning requirements
• Data conversion
  • Generation of geographically referenced grids using lat-long from hard copy maps
  • Conforming source data with grid by warping and rubber- sheeting
  • Conversion of graphical legacy data to digital format. This included the gas pipelines, pipe accessories such as valves, regulators and Corrosion Control Stations
  • Features were placed in relation to land base and other gas features as per the customer's requirements and all network relationships were maintained
• Attribution
  • Design of gas network database and attribution of network elements with   pipe attribute data such as size, location, pressure, installation details,   suppliers, durability, life period, consumers etc.
• Development of conversion tools
  • Development of conversion tools was a major component whereby the conversion process was automated. This included graphical data generation, pipe accessories and other fabricated parts with the help of specially-designed tools. Maps produced were used to analyze the pipe layout design problems, modification called for in the process, fuel distribution, etc.
• Network Connectivity
  • Classifications for data retrieval - size of pipe, material, pressure, location   and corrosion control station
  • Classification for data analysis - pipes in the vicinity of fire hazardous areas, network connected to specified corrosion control station
  • Location of other suppliers

Tools Used:

• AutoCAD Map