An expert system is changing the world of pipeline layout

A newly developed expert system, designed to meet the challenges of pipeline construction, brings a whole new dynamic to the pipeline industry

Cambridge, UK and Pittsford, NY – 22 November 2016: The design and layout of pipelines is fraught with a variety of challenges, especially where pipelines are to be laid in areas of mountainous or hilly terrain.

A specialized pipeline design tool

The pipeline layout system was developed to meet the specific challenges of pipeline construction through a development partnership between AEP and CAD Schroer. The pipeline layout system is based on CAD Schroer’s flagship MEDUSA4 2D/3D CAD software. Various custom functions were added during the development process which led to great improvements in the field.

For example, GPS-based field-survey data of the pipe corridor is used by MEDUSA4 to produce an accurate 3D terrain model of the pipe corridor to facilitate the pipeline layout process. The system enables AEP to achieve a 40% reduction in pipeline design time, a 30% reduction in the number of pipeline bends that have to be manufactured, and substantial reductions in waste material and overall project timescales.

The use of GPS-guided excavators together with accurate pipe bending ensures that the pipeline always fits the trench. The overall improvement in accuracy has also minimized the occurrence of corrective work on-site.

Further information on the Pipeline Layout System:

http://www.cad-schroer.com/company/customers/aep-and-medusa4.html?utm_campaign=pr161005-aep-konfigurator&utm_medium=press-release

About CAD Schroer

CAD Schroer is a global software development company and engineering solutions provider, helping to raise the productivity and competitiveness of customers working in manufacturing and plant design, including the automotive sector and its supply chain, the energy sector and public utilities. CAD Schroer has offices and subsidiaries throughout Europe and in the United States.

CAD Schroer’s product portfolio includes 2D/3D CAD, plant design, factory layout and data management solutions. Customers in 39 countries rely on MEDUSA4®, MPDS4™ and STHENO/PRO® to provide an efficient, flexible and integrated design environment for all phases of product or plant design – cutting costs while raising quality. CAD Schroer emphasises close customer partnerships and supports its clients’ objectives through extensive consultancy, training, development, software support and maintenance services.

CAD Schroer UK Limited
2nd Floor Godwin House
Castle Park
Cambridge UK
CB3 0RA
Kate Pottle

This release was published on openPR.