Comprehensive data management in plant design

Administrators can use the Project Manager to administrate entire project databases in PDC and thus enable collaborative design across multiple locations. Users of M4 PLANT can query any equipment models stemming from PDC to see where they are used, and if they are up to date. They can access the latest version of a piece of equipment in PDC, with the choice of updating the equipment in their design if appropriate. Where-used queries can be performed on named objects to find out in which documents they are represented (e.g. as a P&ID symbol, an M4 PLANT instance, or a 2D view), thus assessing the implications of making a change. Such queries also help to find similar projects, enabling users to copy databases for a quick start on new designs. Users can also explore relationships between documents, such as between model files and their definition sheets. Downstream engineering data, such as piping isometrics, can be made available via PDC, thus making them accessible to all project stakeholders.

The PDC integration provides total project document management, including document revision and status control. Users can manage and track paper-based (“virtual”) documents, and store non-graphical design data, such as part numbers, for easy retrieval. The system locks files being edited, and can inform other users when a new version is available. PDC can also use M4 data (components, assemblies, drawings etc.) for the management of parts lists or Bills of Materials (BOM), and allows designers to search and retrieve components from different drawings for use in their current design.