Leverage P&ID Data to 3D model

[Eltron]

I'm starting to have to convert more and more 2D P&IDs to 3D layouts lately, and I'd like to streamline the process. Does anyone here have any suggestions? We're currently using Visio and SolidWorks, and they don't play nicely with each other.

Dan

http://www.eltronresearch.com

Dan's Blog

 

[pennpiper]

Please,
Let me try to understand your question.

You want to feed a 2D P&ID data file in one side of a 3D (PDS or other) system and have it automatically output a physical model of a complex process plant.
Is that correct? Is that what you really want?

 

[Eltron]

Not exactly. I'd like to have the 2D P&ID data file reference a design library of components within my 3D modeler and populate an assembly. I can then position components and run the piping, framework and wiring. This will avoid me having to do twice as much work when I manually interpret the P&ID information, draw the vessels, exchangers, etc. and do the layout.

Dan

http://www.eltronresearch.com

Dan's Blog

 

[europipe]

Just like mr. Pennock I don't understand
Are you a piper or a process man?
I think there is no way to convert these two different things.

 

[Eltron]

Here's an example of my current workflow: someone brings me a P&ID and says, "Hey, Dan. We need a 3D representation of how this plant is going to fit on the site." So I spend as much time deciphering vessel, exchanger and pump specifications as I do modeling the thing.

In the ideal situation when the properties are being assigned to the vessels in the P&ID software maybe a file name gets referenced in the CAD design library. Then when the 2D file interfaces with the 3D modeler it would be able to autopopulate an assembly with accurate models of the vessels maybe even with pipe or connection specifications. As I said above, I am happy to organize the assembly and run lines. I just can't help thinking there's a more intelligent way to go about this.

There are pieces of software out there that do this in some manner, I'm just trying to see if anyone here is familiar with them.

Dan

http://www.eltronresearch.com

Dan's Blog

 

[europipe]

I think Autoplant is the answer then.
It runs under Autocad.
You can download fitting dwg files from the internet
and model the equipment yourself.

Greetings

 

[MJCronin]

Intergraph "Smart plant" is another answer, albiet probably more expensive

http://www.intergraph.com/products/ppm/smartplant/default.aspx

 

[Japher]

We just started using CADWorx that does something similar. You still have to draw your model and P&ID separately but the two are linked through a database that you can use to assign specs and create datasheets. It seems to save time.