AutoPLANT to PDS

[Packin31]

Anyone out there know of any firms that can covert AutoPLANT models to PDS?

We have a firm here that can do it but we are always looking for others to help us out.

This firm here is asking for PCF files. I know we can generate them from ISOGEN. But for my own knowledge what is involved for them to import them?

Looks like I need to learn PDS and PDMS.

Thanks

[Colby]

They will convert the PCF file to a IDF file then do an import for your piping.

The IDF is an older version of the PCF file

[Packin31]

Thanks Colby

[Bingo]

I think it is not a good method to do it.
Because it is no enough information of piping in files of PCF,so it is not all information of piping in PDS.

[Colby]

I think it is not a good method to do it.
Because it is no enough information of piping in files of PCF,so it is not all information of piping in PDS.

Bingo,

I do not mean to offend you but could you please describe your logic behind this? I have built MTO Databases for projects based on the IDF\PCF file I find them to be way more reliable then the Actual ISO. For the simple reason that designers do not go back and change the IDF\PCF file after it has been extracted from the model! This "2D" modification after the ISO has been issued is a real pain especially if you work sharing a project with a sister office or Company.


-Colby-

[Bingo]

It doesn't matter.I am so sorry my english not very well.
PCF file is just include the information of ISO drawing,not include all of information of AutoPLANT 3D model.So i think it is not a good method.

[sullyman]

Hi folks, can you list any firms you know of that will convert Autoplant to PDS please

[Aplant Monkey]

I am not aware of any program that will convert AutoPlant to PDS

[sullyman]

I was hoping Packin31 would perhaps PM me the name of the firm that can do it as metioned in his post above. Anyone know of firms that can do the conversion ?

[Packin31]

Sullyman,

First off welcome aboard.

I don't recall off hand the firms name but will try to track it down for you.

[Patrick_Aps]

IDF files contain all the dimensional info of the Pipes.
It is used by other programs like Spoolgen to pre-cut and bend pipes, so for CAM.
With IDF files you can re-reaste all the piping of a project into another.
Basically, PDS itself has a script module that can import an IDF file and place the components in 3D, just like Isogen places them on a 2D iso.
The only backdraft is that his moldue uses 5 concurrent licenses at the same moment.

Other Intergraph programs that can edit and modify IDF files are SmartPlant Isometrics, formarly known as Alias I-Sketch.
In a test project I was able to draw a new Iso in I-sketch and have it imported in 3D iso.
or convert it to a look-alike 3D AutoCAD DWG that was close enough to occupy to take the space for clash detection.

For Structural and Equipment, I do not know an import way, other than convert to 3D MicroStation J and show it (without intelligence) in PDS.

CAXperts is a German Intergraph Service Provider that has a lot of impressive tools and much experience.
http://www.caxperts.com

[Tyfune]

It's probably a little early to mention this, but OpenPlant may be a solution in the future. They claim that they'll be able to bring AutoPLANT, PDS and possibly SmartPlant into one unified project. I can't say if a true convert will occur, but they'll be able to share data.