JP7740646B2 - Piping design device, design system, installation support method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a design device, design system, installation support method, and program for piping and other components.

Devices that assist in structural calculations and designs of beams, piping, etc. are known.

Specifically, when drilling through holes in steel beams, a computer determines whether the through holes meet applicable conditions such as hole diameter or installation position. For example, the computer calculates the hole diameter, beam material, web width-thickness ratio, beam depth, minimum pitch between adjacent holes, distance from the beam end to the hole center, distance from the heel ring end to the gusset plate end, and eccentricity, among other factors, to make the determination. This method of preventing unnecessary interruptions to construction work is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-164322

However, conventional methods do not take into account cases where a penetrating object passes through a beam. In other words, conventional methods often leave unclear the location where a penetrating object can pass through a beam, or the results of judgments based on regulations, such as whether a penetrating object can pass through a beam.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a way to determine the position at which a penetrating object can be passed through a beam, or whether or not a penetrating object can be passed through a beam, as determined based on regulations, etc.

The design device, etc. according to each embodiment of the present invention includes the following configuration:

A design device (for example, PC11) that supports the installation of a penetrating object (for example, a piping PI) in a building in which a beam (for example, a main beam GI or a sub-beam SB) is installed,
beam data input means (e.g., beam data input means 10F1) for inputting beam data indicating the beam (e.g., beam data D20);
A specific installation object data input means (e.g., specific installation object data input means 10F21) for inputting specific installation object data (e.g., specific installation object data D22) indicating a specific installation object (e.g., a joint JT, etc.) to be installed on the beam;
a penetrating object data input means (e.g., penetrating object data input means 10F2) for inputting penetrating object data (e.g., penetrating object data D21) indicating the penetrating object;
a penetrating object position input means (for example, a penetrating object position input means 10F22) for inputting a penetrating object position (for example, a route RT) in the longitudinal direction of the beam where the penetrating object is installed;
and a determining means (for example, a determining means 10F23) for determining whether or not the position of the penetrating object satisfies a condition (for example, a configuration as shown in FIG. 50).

In addition, the specific installation object is
joints, columns or joists (for example as shown in FIG. 48).

Laws and regulations often stipulate that a certain distance must be maintained between a penetrating object and a specific installation or other penetrating object. Therefore, the user UR needs to check whether the respective distances meet the conditions set forth in the regulations. Therefore, the design device determines the location where a penetrating object can pass through a beam determined based on regulations, or whether it is possible to pass a penetrating object through a beam, and the determination result is displayed to the user UR, allowing the user UR to know the determination result.

Moreover, the determination means
A first distance (for example, the distance indicated by "E1" on the image screen IMG) from the outer diameter of the penetrating object to the end of the specific installation object is equal to or greater than a first set value (for example, a value set in the first setting unit SET1),
and,
If the second distance (for example, the distance indicated by "E2" on the image screen IMG) from the outer diameter of the penetrating object to the outer diameter of another penetrating object is greater than or equal to a second set value (for example, a value set in the second setting unit SET2), it is determined that the condition is met (YES in step S27).

In this way, if both the first distance and the second distance are sufficiently secured, the determination means determines that the position of the penetrating object satisfies the conditions. By making this determination, it can be confirmed that the distance stipulated by the rules is secured from both the specific installation object and other penetrating objects.

The method further includes a reinforcing ring setting means (e.g., step S26) for setting a reinforcing ring (e.g., a reinforcing ring RI) to be installed on the penetrating object,
The determination means
It is determined whether the outer diameter of the penetrating object including the outer diameter of the reinforcing ring satisfies the above condition (YES in step S27).

In this way, once the reinforcing ring RI can be set, the design device can determine whether the outer diameter of the penetrating object with the reinforcing ring RI attached meets the conditions. In other words, laws and regulations may stipulate that when a reinforcing ring RI is used, the first distance, second distance, etc. must be sufficiently secured, taking into account the attachment of the reinforcing ring RI. Therefore, once the reinforcing ring RI can be set using the reinforcing ring setting unit SETR, it can be checked whether the conditions of the law and other regulations are met, taking into account the attachment of the reinforcing ring RI.

In addition, when the penetrating object is installed so as to penetrate or pass through a plurality of beams (for example, when the route RT in FIG. 44 is set),
The system further includes a display means (for example, display means 10F5) for displaying a route (for example, a route RT) that satisfies the condition for any of the plurality of beams.

In this way, when a route RT has multiple beams, the conditions may be determined by determining whether each beam satisfies the conditions. If the conditions are met for all beams on the route RT, the target route RT is determined to be a "possible" route RT. In this way, in a route RT that passes through multiple beams, if even one beam does not satisfy the conditions, the target route RT is often a route RT that cannot satisfy the conditions of laws and regulations, etc. Therefore, in a route RT with multiple beams, once the conditions are determined for each beam, calculation results such as the location where a penetrating object can pass through a beam determined based on regulations, etc., or whether it is possible to pass a penetrating object through a beam, can be easily obtained, even if there are multiple beams.

Moreover, the penetrating object is a pipe through which moisture passes,
If there are a plurality of routes (for example, routes RT), the route with the least change in the height direction is extracted from among the plurality of routes.

In particular, if the penetrating object is a pipe that allows moisture to pass through, it is desirable for the route to have minimal changes in height. If there are changes in height in a pipe that allows moisture to pass through, it is easy for areas where moisture can stagnate inside the pipe. Therefore, it is desirable to install the penetrating object in a route that has the least changes in height, in other words, one that does not bend the penetrating object as much as possible. Therefore, if an optimal route with the fewest bends can be extracted, the design will be easier.

In a design system having a design device that supports the installation of a penetration in a building where a beam is installed,
The design device
beam data input means for inputting beam data indicating the beam;
a specific installation data input means for inputting specific installation data indicating a specific installation object to be installed on the beam;
a penetrating object data input means for inputting penetrating object data indicating the penetrating object;
a penetrating object position input means for inputting a penetrating object position in the longitudinal direction of the beam on which the penetrating object is to be installed;
and determining means for determining whether the position of the penetrating object satisfies a condition (for example, a configuration as shown in FIG. 1).

In addition, an installation support method performed by a design device that supports the installation of a penetrating object in a building where a beam is installed includes:
a beam data input step in which the design device inputs beam data indicating the beam;
a specific installation data input step in which the design device inputs specific installation data indicating a specific installation to be installed on the beam;
a penetrating object data input step in which the design device inputs penetrating object data indicating the penetrating object;
a penetrating object position input step in which the design device inputs a penetrating object position in the longitudinal direction of the beam where the penetrating object is to be installed;
and a determination procedure in which the design device determines whether the position of the penetrating object satisfies a condition (for example, the overall process shown in FIG. 43).

Each embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to know the calculation results, such as the location where a penetrating object can pass or whether or not a penetrating object can pass, which are determined based on regulations, etc.

1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a design system and an example of the hardware configuration of a design apparatus; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of data realized by the design system. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of price list data. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of cost data. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of CAD data. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of construction plan data. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of overall processing in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of an input/output screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of an input/output screen. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of beam arrangement and piping routes. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 1) showing a display example of a passable range. FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing a display example of a passable range. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of displaying upper and lower limit beams in the first pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of displaying upper and lower limit beams in a second pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of recalculation. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of saving a calculated or recalculated pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simulation result before the change. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simulation result after the change. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a saved route. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of stored calculation results, etc. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the latest calculation results, etc. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of displaying calculation results of previous values, etc. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of saving an additional calculation result, etc.; FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration according to the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of overall processing in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of input of an installation range. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a starting point. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an installation example (part 1). FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an installation example (part 2). FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of movement of a starting point. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of interval display. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of assistance in moving the starting point. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an installation example (part 3). FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an object made up of multiple pipes. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an installation example. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the interval is changed midway. This is a diagram (part 5) showing an installation example. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an installation example. This is a diagram (part 7) showing an installation example. This is a diagram (part 8) showing an installation example. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the length covered by an earthquake-resistant support member. 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of earthquake-resistant support members. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of overall processing in the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of input of beam data. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a joint setting screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display of an impenetrable area. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a routing setting screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for a reinforcing ring or the like. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display on which a sleeve is arranged. FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration according to a third embodiment. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of overall processing in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for an object and a support member. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of intervals defined by rules. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of piping classification. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for processing to specify a setting position. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a third pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of specifying an installation position. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first example of a boundary that is determined to be a seam; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first modification of the first example that is determined to be a seam; 1A and 1B show examples of joints with varying widths. FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration according to a fourth embodiment. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of overall processing in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which a plurality of objects are arranged. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for inputting a first condition and a second condition. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first condition and a second condition. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of replacement in the first section. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of replacement in the second section. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of replacement in the third section. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of replacement in the fourth section. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of replacement in the fifth section. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example after replacement. FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the first example that is determined to be a seam; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third modified example of the first example that is determined to be a seam. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of a boundary that is determined to be a seam; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification of the second example where a seam is determined; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third example of a boundary that is determined to be a seam; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification of the third example where a seam is determined; FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of arranging components. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of component placement. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a modification using a support member installation location. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the first modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the second modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the third modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth modified example that is determined to be a joint. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the fourth modified example that is determined to be a joint. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of changing the installation position by a user operation. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of input for an operation to change the installation position. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of specifying an installation position based on a post-operation installation position. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which both ends are supported. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the setting of both ends support is reflected. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first check result of the interval. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second check result of the interval. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of adding to an intermediate position.

Details of each embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that components having substantially the same functional configuration in the description and drawings of each embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals to avoid redundant description.

First Embodiment
<Overall configuration example>
1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a design system and an example of the hardware configuration of a design device. For example, the design device according to this embodiment is used in a design system 10 as shown in the figure.

Specifically, the design system 10 includes, for example, a PC (Personal Computer, hereinafter referred to as "PC 11"), which is an example of a design device, goggles 12, and a pointer device 13.

As shown in the figure, the design system 10 is connected to a network NW such as the Internet. It is then connected to external devices M1, M2, M3, etc. via the network NW. When data or operations are input from the external devices M1, M2, M3, etc. connected in this manner, the design system 10 accepts the data or operations via the network NW. In other words, the design system 10 sends and receives data to and from the external devices M1, M2, M3, etc. via the network NW.

<Example of hardware configuration of design equipment>
As shown in the figure, the PC 11 has a hardware configuration including a CPU (Central Processing Unit, hereinafter referred to as "CPU 11H1"), a storage device 11H2, an interface 11H3, and a communication device 11H4.

The CPU 11H1 is an example of a calculation device and a control device. That is, the CPU 11H1 cooperates with the memory device 11H2 based on a program to perform processing or control.

Storage device 11H2 is a main storage device such as a memory. Storage device 11H2 may also include an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk or SSD (Solid State Drive). Storage device 11H2 stores programs, data, etc.

The interface 11H3 connects peripheral devices such as the goggles 12 and pointer device 13, for example, via a wired or wireless connection, and transmits and receives data to and from the peripheral devices. Specifically, the interface 11H3 is, for example, a connector and a processing IC (Integrated Circuit). Note that the interface 11H3 may also be connected to peripheral devices via a network.

The interface 11H3 connects peripheral devices such as the goggles 12 and pointer device 13. The goggles 12 and pointer device 13 are examples of devices for using virtual space. In other words, the goggles 12 and pointer device 13 display the virtual space and accept operations related to the displayed virtual space.

Goggles 12 are an example of an output device that displays a virtual space. For example, goggles 12 are an HMD (Head Mounted Display).

The pointer device 13 is an example of an input device used to input operations such as pointing at objects displayed in virtual space or selecting menus.

<Data configuration example>
2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of data realized by the design system 10. For example, by using the design system 10, data such as that shown in the figure can be handled.

First, various data is input into the design system 10 via an external device, input device, etc. Specifically, for example, design data D01, construction data D02, operation data D03, library data D04, price list data D05, specification data D06, equipment data D07, and attribute information data D08 are input. Note that other data may also be input into the design system 10.

As shown in the figure, design data D01, construction data D02, and operation data D03 are data created for specific purposes, such as "design," "structure," "air conditioning," "sanitary," and "electricity." For example, the "design" data in design data D01 is data showing blueprints and the like related to the design of a building.

Library data D04 is data that indicates, for example, the "shape" and "attributes" of a building or parts used to construct a building.

Price list data D05 is data that indicates the prices of parts and other items procured in construction. For example, price list data D05 is data such as the following:

Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of price list data. For example, as shown in the figure, prices are entered corresponding to the part name, such as "Part 1," "Part 2," and "Part 3." Note that multiple prices may be entered for the same part, such as "Part 2" shown in the figure. For example, even for the same part, prices may differ if the supplier is different or if the purchasing conditions, such as for bulk purchases, are different. Therefore, multiple prices may be entered for a single part in price list data D05, such as "Part 2" shown in the figure.

Specification data D06 and equipment data D07 are data that indicate the specifications of equipment, parts, etc. to be installed in a building.

Attribute information data D08 is data that indicates, for example, various settings and related information about the BIM model (hereinafter referred to as "attribute information"). Specifically, as shown in the figure, attribute information data D08 includes input such information as "properties (various settings)," "ID (Identification)," "source file name," "project information," "block name," "plan name," "dimensions," "installation date," "installation conditions such as temperature," "area information (area type and area name, etc.)," "material information such as inclusions," "type parameters," and "work data."

For example, information such as specifications for buildings, equipment, parts, etc. is stored in the form of document data D10, skeleton data D11, table data D12, etc.

For example, a BIM model is composed of at least CAD data D13 and attribute information data D08. However, when using a BIM model, other data such as document data D10, skeleton data D11, or table data D12 may be referenced.

As shown in the figure, if there is price list data D05, for example, cost data D09 like the one below can be generated.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of cost data. As shown in the figure, cost data D09 indicates data used, for example, for cost calculations. Specifically, first, with price list data D05, etc., the price of each part can be determined. Then, with a BIM model, the quantity of each part used in the building can be determined. Next, by calculating "price x quantity," the cost of each part, which forms the breakdown of "material costs," can be determined.

Furthermore, when design data D01, etc. is input, design drawings, etc. are stored as CAD data D13, for example, as shown below.

Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of CAD data. As shown, CAD data D13 is 3D data, etc. Note that CAD data D13 may also include 2D data. CAD data D13 may also include multiple data sets depending on the level of detail or purpose of use, such as "design drawing level" to "working drawing level."

Then, for example, technical review data D14, construction plan data D15, and construction management data D16 may be generated based on the BIM model, etc. Below, an example in which data such as that shown in the figure is generated will be explained.

When cost data D09 is available, processes such as quotation processing PS01, cost management processing PS02, and budget management processing PS03 can be executed. By executing these processes, the design system 10 can create documents such as design documents FL1, invoices FL2, or estimates FL3. In other words, quotation processing PS01 can calculate the amounts to be listed on invoices FL2, estimates FL3, etc.

In addition, the cost management process PS02 can calculate amounts used in cost management, such as variable costs and fixed costs, making it possible to calculate amounts to be listed in documents such as the design document FL1.

The budget management process PS03 can calculate amounts used to manage the budget. For example, it calculates expected costs used to create the budget or progress used to manage using the percentage-of-completion method. In this way, the budget management process PS03 can calculate amounts to be entered in the estimate FL3.

With technical study data D14, it is possible to execute processes such as heat and airflow simulation PS04 and static pressure and head calculation PS05. Furthermore, with technical study data D14, it is possible to execute processes such as placement simulation PS06 of mounting frames, steel materials, hoists, anchors, etc. Furthermore, with technical study data D14, it is possible to execute sound simulation PS07, such as noise reduction and sound insulation. Furthermore, with technical study data D14, it is possible to execute processes such as air and water volume distribution calculation and wind and water leakage calculation PS08.

In other words, with the technical study data D14, the design system 10 can perform various simulations or scientific and technical calculations. Therefore, the design system 10 can perform simulations and output simulation results.

With construction plan data D15, various plans can be created, such as process plan PS09, safety plan PS10, artificial plan PS11, construction method plan PS12, delivery plan PS13, and trial run plan PS14.

For example, construction plan data D15 is data such as the following:

Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of construction plan data. As shown, construction plan data D15 is data that shows schedules, etc., in the form of, for example, a so-called Gantt chart. In other words, construction plan data D15 is data that shows the schedule of work, etc., to be carried out to construct a building. Therefore, when data such as construction plan data D15 is available, it is possible to execute processes such as process plan creation PS09, which creates a process plan based on the schedule of each process, etc., shown in construction plan data D15.

Similarly, safety plans for each process, plans for personnel at each process, plans for construction methods, plans for bringing in equipment, and plans for trial runs can be created through processes such as safety plan creation PS10, manual plan creation PS11, construction method plan creation PS12, delivery plan creation PS13, and trial run plan creation PS14.

Construction management data D16 is data used for various management purposes in the construction of a building. For example, at a construction site, progress, actual items, costs, etc. are managed. Of these, construction management data D16 is used to manage progress and actual items, for example. Specifically, construction management data D16 enables the execution of processes such as progress management PS15, order/delivery management PS16, and inspection/record management PS17. For example, management tables or records are created through the processes of progress management PS15, order/delivery management PS16, and inspection/record management PS17.

Change data D17 is data that is generated when an operation is performed in VR (Virtual Reality) displayed based on CAD data D13, etc. to change the materials and equipment installed in the building (including equipment, facilities, or parts thereof that are part of the building; hereinafter simply referred to as "materials and equipment").

Specifically, a building is designed, and the design details are entered into CAD data D13, etc. The layout of materials and equipment in the building is also entered into the CAD data D13. With such CAD data D13, the completed appearance of the building can be virtually displayed, for example, on goggles 12, using VR display, etc. Therefore, users UR, etc. can see the completed appearance of the building and the layout of materials and equipment in the building in a virtual space, even during the design stage. In this way, using VR display to show a rendering of the completed building, for example, can prevent misunderstandings between the client of the building and the designer.

Furthermore, if the user UR finds that the placement of the equipment differs from his or her intention, he or she can view the VR display displayed by the VR display processing PS19 and perform an operation to change the placement of the equipment. For example, in the overall configuration shown in Figure 1, the user UR uses the pointer device 13 in the virtual space displayed by the goggles 12 to specify the equipment to be changed and perform an operation to change the placement. In this way, the change operation reception processing PS18 is performed.

In this way, when an operation to change the placement of materials and equipment is input by the change operation reception process PS18, change data D17 is generated that indicates the operation content, i.e., the materials and equipment whose placement will be changed and their positions after the change. CAD data D13, etc. are then changed based on the change data D17.

Other operations may include "table output," which displays each piece of information in table format, etc. Furthermore, "2D drawing output," which displays blueprints, etc. in 2D drawings by converting CAD data D13, etc., may be performed. Furthermore, "information sharing with the site, etc." may be performed, which sends and receives each piece of information to and from a mobile device, etc. Furthermore, "input/output of production information," which sends and receives each piece of information used in the construction of a building, etc. may be performed.

Calculation result data D18 shows the results of calculations of the range within which a penetrating object can penetrate or avoid the beam.

Layout data D19 is data such as a plan view showing the installation positions of beams, etc. and the routes of penetrating objects, etc.

Beam data D20 indicates various setting values for the beam. Details of beam data D20 will be described later.

Penetrating object data D21 indicates various setting values for objects that will become penetrating objects. Details of penetrating object data D21 will be described later.

As described above, it is assumed below that after a BIM model or the like has been constructed, the user UR uses goggles 12 to check the interior of the building, etc. This type of work may be performed at any time. During this work, installation assistance is provided by instructing the installation location of materials and equipment (including instructions to change the location if it has been set in advance).

<Overall processing example>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing in the first embodiment.

<Example of beam data input> (Step S01)
In step S01, the design device inputs beam data.

<Example of penetrating object data input> (Step S02)
In step S02, the design device inputs penetrating object data.

<Calculation example of first passable range> (Step S03)
In step S03, the design device calculates a first passable range.

The first passable range is the range within a single beam that allows a penetrating object to penetrate the beam while meeting specified regulations. Specifically, the first passable range is calculated using the formula shown in "Reinforced Concrete Structure Bar Arrangement Standards" (authored by the Construction Ministry Secretariat, Government Buildings Department, published by the Construction Association in 1977).

For example, steps S01 to S03 are input and output using a GUI (Graphical User Interface) such as the one shown below.

<Example of input and calculation result of first passable range>
For example, "beam type," which is an example of beam data, is set on the input/output screen shown below. Since the input, calculation, and output differ depending on whether the "beam type" is steel (indicated as "S" in the figure for "beam type"), reinforced concrete (indicated as "RC" in the figure for "beam type"), or steel-framed reinforced concrete (indicated as "SRC" in the figure for "beam type"), the input/output screens will be explained separately below.

Figure 8 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of an input/output screen. The input/output screen shown is an example of an input/output screen when the "beam type" is steel frame. For example, when beam data and penetrating object data are input on the input/output screen shown in the figure, the first passable range is calculated and the calculation results are output.

The calculation method input section IN11 accepts an input to select either "Calculate Adaptation Level" or "Calculate Effective Range Only." Specifically, when "Calculate Adaptation Level" is selected, the passable range of the penetrating object is calculated based on the settings for the purpose, size, fire-resistant coating, etc., entered on the input/output screen shown in the figure. On the other hand, when "Calculate Effective Range Only" is selected, the passable range of the penetrating object is calculated without considering the outer diameter, insulation thickness, voids, etc. of the penetrating object. Therefore, when "Calculate Effective Range Only" is selected, the outer diameter, insulation thickness, voids, etc. of the penetrating object are not considered, and therefore penetrating object data is not required. On the other hand, if penetrating object data is also used, the design system can also calculate values such as the "required opening diameter," as shown in Figures 8 and 9. With these values, the design system can also calculate whether the passage diameter can be secured. The "required opening diameter" and "passing diameter" will be described later.

Setting values such as "pipe type," "purpose," and "nominal diameter" are input into the pipe type selection input section IN12. Specifically, the type of penetrating object is input into "pipe type." In the example shown, either "pipe" or "duct" is selected for "pipe type."

The "Use" field selects the use of the target penetrating object. For example, as shown in the figure, "Use" is entered as "Piping" and the type of object flowing through the selected pipe.

The size of the pipe is entered in "nominal diameter." Therefore, "nominal diameter" is the setting value entered when "pipe type" is "pipe." Note that in this example, if "pipe type" is "duct," "size" would be the setting value instead of "nominal diameter."

Setting values such as "Beam Type" are input into the beam type selection input section IN13. As described above, in this example, if "Beam Type" is selected as "S," the input/output screen shown in the figure is displayed. On the other hand, if "Beam Type" is selected as "SRC" or "RC," the input/output screen switches to the input/output screen shown in Figure 9.

Setting values such as the "top floor," "target floor," "covering," and "[t2] fire-resistant covering thickness (beam body)" of the target building are input into the fire-resistant covering method input section IN14.

In "Top Floor," enter the number of floors that are the top floor of the target building, i.e., how many floors the target building has.

The "Target Floor" field is where you enter the floor on which the penetrating object will be installed.

The "Sheathing" field allows you to enter the type of sheathing to be attached to the penetrating object. Specifically, "Sheathing" can be selected from products such as "Sprayed Rockwool (registered trademark)," "Makibee (registered trademark)," "Sleeve Tasuke (registered trademark)," and "Pylon Barrier (trademark)."

The "[t2] Fire-resistant coating thickness (beam body)" field outputs the calculated thickness of the coating that meets the fire resistance standard time based on the settings such as "top floor," "target floor," and "coating." For example, if "coating" is set to "Makibee (registered trademark)" and the "fire resistance standard time" is 1 hour, the "[t2] Fire-resistant coating thickness (beam body)" field will output something like "20 millimeters." Similarly, if the "fire resistance standard time" is 2 hours, the "[t2] Fire-resistant coating thickness (beam body)" field will output something like "40 millimeters." Furthermore, if the "fire resistance standard time" is 3 hours, the "[t2] Fire-resistant coating thickness (beam body)" field will output something like "65 millimeters."

On the other hand, if "Coating" is set to anything other than "Makibee (registered trademark)" and the "Fire Resistance Standard Time" is 1 hour, then the "[t2] Fire Resistance Coating Thickness (Beam Body)" will be output as, for example, "25 millimeters." Similarly, if the "Fire Resistance Standard Time" is 2 hours, then the "[t2] Fire Resistance Coating Thickness (Beam Body)" will be output as, for example, "45 millimeters." Furthermore, if the "Fire Resistance Standard Time" is 3 hours, then the "[t2] Fire Resistance Coating Thickness (Beam Body)" will be output as, for example, "60 millimeters."

The penetration dimension display section IN15 displays the "[K] outer diameter," ""[A] insulation thickness," ""[R] gap," ""[t1] fireproof coating thickness (opening)," and ""[H] required opening diameter," etc.

In "[K] Outer Diameter," a value indicating the outer diameter of the penetrating object corresponding to, for example, the "nominal diameter" or "size" is output.

For "[A] Insulation Thickness," a value is output based on the "purpose" and "nominal diameter" (or "size") entered into the pipe type selection input section IN12. For example, the value is obtained from a database that serves as a pre-set insulation thickness master, implementation guidelines, etc.

For example, a preset value is displayed for "[R] Gap." Specifically, the initial value is set to "25 millimeters."

The value output for "[t1] Fire-Resistant Coating Thickness (Opening)" is based on the type of "coating" entered in the fire-resistant coating method input section IN14. In other words, a value corresponding to the type of "coating" is obtained from a pre-set database, etc., and displayed in "[t1] Fire-Resistant Coating Thickness (Opening)."

The value output for "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is calculated based on factors such as "[K] Outer Diameter," "[A] Insulation Thickness," "[R] Air Gap," and "[t1] Fire-Resistant Coating Thickness (Opening)." For example, the value output for "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is calculated as "[K] + 2 x ([A] + [R] + [t1])." The following explanation uses an example in which a hole of the diameter indicated by "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is the minimum required to allow a penetrating object to pass through.

The first passable range display unit IN16 displays the calculation results of the first passable range. Specifically, in the illustrated example, "1/3" of "Beam depth [D]" (shown as a decimal "0.333" in the illustration) is the "opening diameter standard," i.e., the legal upper limit for the size of a hole that can be drilled in a beam to allow a penetrating object (including the above-mentioned coating and voids, etc.) to pass through.

In addition, in the illustrated example, the range set as the "[L1] edge clearance dimension" is set so that no penetrating object will pass through. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the range set as the "[L1] edge clearance dimension" does not include the first passable range, and the first passable range is calculated so as to ensure the range set as the "[L1] edge clearance dimension." The "[L1] edge clearance dimension" is set, for example, to the "edge clearance standard."

The illustrated example is a case where the "[H] required opening diameter" satisfies the "opening diameter standard." Therefore, the first passable range display unit IN16 displays the "penetration range," which is an example of the first passable range.

In the illustrated example, the "penetration range" within which the upper "L1 edge clearance dimension" can be secured is displayed on the left side of the figure, i.e., the upper limit of the "penetration range." On the other hand, the "penetration range" within which the lower "L1 edge clearance dimension" can be secured is displayed on the right side of the figure, i.e., the lower limit of the "penetration range."

Figure 9 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of an input/output screen. The input/output screen shown is an example of the screen that is displayed when "Beam Type" is selected as "SRC" or "RC." The following explanation will focus on the differences from the input/output screen shown in Figure 8, and will omit redundant explanations.

In the pipe type selection input section IN12, settings such as "pipe type," "purpose," and "nominal diameter" are entered, just as when "S" is selected for "beam type." The example shown in the figure shows a case where "duct" is selected for "pipe type."

In the beam type selection input section IN13, "SRC" or "RC" is entered as the "beam type." The following explanation will use the example where "RC" is selected.

In this example, "Covering" and "[t2] Fireproof Covering Thickness (Beam Body)" in the fireproof covering method input section IN14 are grayed out to prevent input and output when the "Beam Type" is "SRC" or "RC."

The value output for "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is calculated based on the "[K] Outer Diameter," "[A] Insulation Thickness," and "[R] Air Gap." For example, the value output for "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is calculated as "[K] + 2 x ([A] + [R])." Below, we will explain using an example where the diameter of the hole indicated by "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is the minimum required to allow a penetrating object to pass through.

The first passable range display section IN16 displays the calculation results of the first passable range. Specifically, just as when "S" is selected as the "Beam Type," in the illustrated example, "1/3" of the "[D] Beam Depth" is the "Opening Diameter Standard," i.e., the legal upper limit for the size of a hole that can be drilled in a beam to allow a penetrating object (including the above-mentioned coating and voids, etc.) to pass through.

As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the "adaptation level" is the range within which the "[H] required opening diameter" can be adjusted to accommodate the position of the center of the penetrating object (which is the center of the required opening diameter) as required by the regulations. As shown, the "adaptation level" is determined, for example, by the upper and lower limits in the height direction.

The height direction is the direction of the beam depth. Specifically, the height direction is the direction called the "side length" of the H-shaped steel in JIS G 3912, the direction indicated by the symbol "H," and the "Y-axis" direction. The height direction is also sometimes called the "web height" of the H-shaped steel or I-shaped steel.

On the other hand, the direction perpendicular to the height direction, which is referred to as the "side length" of an H-shaped steel beam in JIS G 3912, and which is indicated by the symbol "B" is called the "short side direction." The short side direction is also referred to as the "side" direction in JIS G 3912, and is the "X-axis" direction. Furthermore, the short side direction is sometimes called the "flange width" of an H-shaped steel beam or I-shaped steel beam.

The direction perpendicular to the height direction and short side direction, and indicating the length of H-shaped steel beams, etc., is called the "longitudinal direction."

<Examples of piping and beams>
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of beam placement and piping route. The following describes an example of placing beams and piping as shown in the figure. Specifically, in this example, a first beam B1 (sometimes referred to as "beam 1"), a second beam B2 (sometimes referred to as "beam 2"), a third beam B3 (sometimes referred to as "beam 3"), a fourth beam B4 (sometimes referred to as "beam 4"), and a fifth beam B5 (sometimes referred to as "beam 5") are placed as shown in the figure. In order to specify such placement and route, position information (including height direction) and the like are input to the beam data and penetrating object data in the form of a blueprint or the like.

In this example, with this beam arrangement, the piping PL passes through the route shown in the figure. Therefore, to follow the route shown in the figure, the piping PL must pass through or avoid the first beam B1, second beam B2, third beam B3, fourth beam B4, and fifth beam B5.

First, steps S01 and S02 are performed, and the layout, route of the penetrating object, characteristics of each beam, and characteristics of each penetrating object are input for the beams and penetrating objects shown in the figure. Therefore, for example, the first passable range for each beam is calculated in step S03, as shown in Figure 8 or 9 as the "penetration range." Next, steps S04 and S05 are performed as follows:

<Example of calculating the second passable range based on multiple first passable ranges> (Step S04)
In step S04, the design device calculates a second passable range based on the plurality of first passable ranges.

<Display example of second passable range> (Step S05)
In step S05, the design device displays the second passable range. An example of displaying the second passable range will be described below using the example shown in the figure. First, it is assumed that the beams and pipes are as follows.

For example, in the case of pipes and beams as shown in Figure 10, the calculation results of step S04 are displayed in step S05 as follows:

<Example of passable area display>
11 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a display of a passable range. The illustrated first calculation result display screen CR1 is an example of a display screen that displays a second passable range based on calculation result data.

The illustrated example shows a case where two different second passable ranges (hereinafter, the two illustrated second passable ranges are referred to as "first pattern PTN1" and "second pattern PTN2") are calculated based on the calculation results of the first passable range.

For example, on the first calculation result display screen CR1, the second passable range of the first pattern PTN1 is displayed as the second effective range EN22, etc. On the other hand, the second passable range of the second pattern PTN2 is displayed as the first effective range EN21, etc.

The first pattern PTN1 is a pattern in which the piping penetrates the first beam B1, the third beam B3, and the fifth beam B5. Such a result is displayed as "Beam Penetration Pattern" as "Beam 1," "Beam 3," and "Beam 5."

Furthermore, the first pattern PTN1 is a pattern in which the piping avoids the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4. In the example shown, the piping passes under the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4. Such a result is displayed as "Below beam 2" and "Below beam 4" in the "Beam penetration pattern." Therefore, since the piping does not penetrate the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4, the calculation result is that three of the five beams have penetration bores. This result is displayed as "3" in the "Number of sleeves." Hereinafter, the number of sleeves refers to the number of penetrated holes.

In addition, in the illustrated example, the first beam B1 and the fifth beam B5 are the same beam (for example, when the beam conditions indicated by the beam data, such as "beam type" and "pipe type," are all the same), so they are displayed together in a single display. Similarly, the illustrated example is an example where the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4 are displayed together in a single display.

In this example, the second passable range is calculated based on the pre-calculated first passable range of the first beam B1 and fifth beam B5 (hereinafter referred to as the "eleventh passable range EN11"), the first passable range of the second beam B2 and fourth beam B4 (hereinafter referred to as the "twelfth passable range EN12"), and the first passable range of the third beam B3 (hereinafter referred to as the "thirteenth passable range EN13").

Specifically, the second passable range is calculated by calculating the "AND" of the eleventh passable range EN11, the twelfth passable range EN12, and the thirteenth passable range EN13. In other words, from the calculation results of each first passable range, the range through which all beams can pass is extracted as the second passable range. This type of calculation is often cumbersome to perform manually when there are many beams. Therefore, if the design device can display these calculation results, the user can easily determine the second passable range.

The illustrated example also shows the second passable range displayed numerically. The second passable range is displayed numerically, for example, as upper and lower limit values. The first pattern PTN1 has a range with a lower limit of "3156" (an example of a so-called level display). On the other hand, the first pattern PTN1 has a range with an upper limit of "3470". In this example, these upper and lower limit values are displayed as "FL+3470" and "FL+3156" above the display showing the second effective range EN22.

In addition, the upper and lower limits are displayed in the "Effective Range" section as "3156-3470." In the illustrated example, the number in parentheses indicates the length of the second passable range (the value corresponding to the difference between the upper and lower limits).

Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the diameter (hereinafter referred to as the "passing diameter") that allows the penetrating object to pass while satisfying specified rules is calculated. The design device then extracts from the second passable range a second passable range in which the passing diameter can be secured.

First, in the example where the "Beam Type" is "S," the specified regulations are met when the "[K] Outer Diameter," "[A] Insulation Thickness," "[R] Air Gap," and "[t1] Fire-Resistant Coating Thickness (Opening)" are met. In other words, if the diameter of the "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is met, the penetrating object will be fitted with a coating or other covering and will meet the regulations of the Building Standards Act, etc.

Therefore, the passage diameter is a diameter that can ensure the "[H] required opening diameter."

In this example, the design device determines whether the first effective range EN21 and the second effective range EN22 are ranges in which the passage diameter can be secured. In this example, the passage diameter is "300". First, the first effective range EN21 is "48", so the passage diameter cannot be secured. On the other hand, the second effective range EN22 is "314", so the passage diameter can be secured. The design device indicates this determination result, for example, with a penetrating object mark OUT1. As shown in the figure, the penetrating object mark OUT1 is displayed in the second effective range EN22. On the other hand, the penetrating object mark OUT1 is not displayed in the first effective range EN21.

In this example, the result of the determination as to whether the passing diameter is within the range that can be secured is also displayed on the "Pipe Level (Core)."

The "piping level (core)" indicates the range in which the center of the penetrating object, i.e., the "core," can be found when passing through each second passable range (in this example, this number is also displayed as a level).

Specifically, since the first pattern PTN1 can be secured, the range in which the passing diameter can be secured to pass through the second passable range (shown as an example with upper and lower limit values) is displayed, such as "3235-3391." On the other hand, since the second pattern PTN2 cannot be secured, "Cannot be selected" is displayed.

In this way, once the second passable ranges in which the passing diameter can be secured are extracted, the user can know which of the second passable ranges is the range in which the passing diameter can be secured.

The example shown in the figure also displays an error message OUT2 to inform the user of the beams that do not meet the specified criteria and the details of the criteria that have not been met. In this example, the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4 are beams that do not meet the criteria to allow a penetrating object to pass through.

Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the indications for the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4 are displayed in a different color from beams that meet other criteria. Also, this example is based on the criterion of whether the "required opening diameter" is "1/3" or more of the beam depth excluding the edge distance.

This display allows users to easily see which beams do not meet the specified criteria and what criteria are not met.

In addition, in the illustrated example, the beam depth (shown in the figure as "1200D", "485D", and "1100D") and maximum opening diameter (shown in the figure as "Maximum opening diameter: 700", "Maximum opening diameter: 125", and "Maximum opening diameter: 600") are displayed at the top of each beam.

Based on the error display OUT2 shown in the figure, if the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4 are changed to beams that can ensure the passage diameter, the following display will appear.

Figure 12 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the passable range display. Compared to Figure 11, the second calculation result display screen CR2 differs in that the second beam B2 and fourth beam B4 have been changed. As a result of these changes, the passable diameter can be secured even with the second pattern PTN2 in the calculation result display section OUT3, so the penetrating object mark OUT21 and the penetrating object mark OUT22 are displayed for both the first pattern PTN1 and the second pattern PTN2.

In this way, for example, by changing from Figure 11 to Figure 12, i.e., by changing the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4, the second passable range can ensure the passable diameter for both the first pattern PTN1 and the second pattern PTN2.

When the first pattern PTN1 is selected, the screen will change to show something like the one below.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the upper and lower limit beams in the first pattern. The example shown is an example of a plan view showing the calculation results for the first pattern PTN1, out of the calculation results shown in Figure 12, for the beam combination and piping route shown in Figure 10.

As shown in the figure, the design device distinguishes between the upper limit beam (the beam indicated by the first pattern upper limit mark OUT25 in FIG. 12), the lower limit beam (the beam indicated by the first pattern lower limit mark OUT26 in FIG. 12), and other beams in the calculation results for the first pattern PTN1 shown in FIG. 12. In the example shown, the beams are distinguished and displayed using different colors.

In the example shown, the lower limit beam is the third beam B3. In this example, the lower limit beam is shown in the third color C3.

Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the upper limit beams are the second beam B2 and the fourth beam B4. In this example, the upper limit beams are shown in the second color C2.

In the illustrated example, the beams that are neither the upper limit nor the lower limit are the first beam B1 and the fifth beam B5. In this example, beams that are neither the upper limit nor the lower limit are shown in the first color C1.

As described above, the design device displays three types of beams - upper limit beams, lower limit beams, and other beams - in three different colors. By displaying the upper limit beams, lower limit beams, and other beams in this way using different colors, the user can check on the plan view which beams are the upper limit beams, lower limit beams, and other beams.

In addition, the illustrated example shows the locations where the pipe PL avoids the beams (hereinafter simply referred to as "avoidance locations UN") using hidden lines when the pipe PL passes under a beam. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the calculation results for the first pattern PTN1 show that the pipe PL passes under the second beam B2 and fourth beam B4. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the intersection of the pipe PL and the second beam B2 and the intersection of the pipe PL and the fourth beam B4 are each the avoidance locations UN. Such avoidance locations UN are displayed, for example, as shown in the illustration, by temporarily interrupting the line indicating the route. With this display, the user can easily see the locations where the pipe PL avoids passing under a beam.

When piping PL passes under beams, the piping PL may be exposed on the floor below. This may be undesirable from a design perspective. Therefore, users may want to know where the piping PL will avoid passing under the beams. If a display like the one shown in the figure can be displayed, users can easily check whether there are any problems with the design.

For example, when the second pattern PTN2 is selected, the screen will change to show the following screen.

Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the upper and lower limit beams in the second pattern. The display shown distinguishes between the upper limit beam (the beam indicated by the second pattern upper limit mark OUT23 in Figure 12), the lower limit beam (the beam indicated by the second pattern lower limit mark OUT24 in Figure 12), and other beams in the calculation results for the second pattern PTN2 shown in Figure 12. Below, as in Figure 13, an example is shown in which the upper limit beam, the lower limit beam, and other beams are displayed in different colors (as in Figure 13, the lower limit beam is displayed in the third color C3, the upper limit beam is displayed in the second color C2, and beams that are neither the upper limit nor the lower limit are displayed in the first color C1).

In other words, compared to Figure 13, the upper limit beam, lower limit beam, and other beams are different from those in the first pattern PTN1. Therefore, compared to Figure 13, the example shown in the figure has different beams indicated by the first color C1, second color C2, and third color C3.

Also, compared to Figure 13, the example shown differs in that there is no avoidance location UN. This corresponds to the calculation result of the second pattern PTN2, as shown in Figure 12, which avoids passing under the beam and has no location through which a penetrating object can pass.

In this way, when the display switches depending on the pattern, the user can easily see the upper limit beam, lower limit beam, and other beams for each pattern. Also, when the display switches depending on the pattern, the user can easily see whether or not there are any avoidance points UN for each pattern.

Also, if you change the beam data or penetrating object data as follows, the design system will recalculate.

Figure 15 shows an example of recalculation. First, assume that the settings are as shown in the figure above (the left screen of the two screens labeled "Before Change" in the figure). The following example will be explained using the input/output screen shown in Figure 8, i.e., the case where the "Beam Type" is "S". The screen that shows the calculation results calculated using the "Before Change" settings is the 31st calculation result display screen CR31.

Next, change the setting value from the image above to the image below (the left drawing of the two screens labeled "After Change" in the image). Below, we will explain the example of changing the type of "Coating" in the "Fire Resistance Coating Method" from "Coating A" shown in "Before Change" to "Coating B" shown in "After Change," as shown in the image.

When changing from "Covering A" (before the change) to "Covering B" (after the change), a recalculation is performed as shown in the figure, and the value of "[t1] Fire-resistant Covering Thickness (Opening)" changes from "6" to "12".

Furthermore, when the "[t1] fire-resistant coating thickness (opening)" is changed, the "[H] required opening diameter," which is calculated based on the "[t1] fire-resistant coating thickness (opening)," is recalculated. As a result of this recalculation, in the example shown, the "[H] required opening diameter" is 158 "before the change," whereas the "[H] required opening diameter" is 170 "after the change." In other words, this is an example of a case where the change results in a larger passage diameter "after the change" than "before the change." The calculation results are also reflected in real time in the display on the right.

Specifically, first, the 31st calculation result display screen CR31 displays two second passable ranges, the 211th effective range EN211 and the 212th effective range EN212, as calculation results. Then, under the conditions shown in the diagram above, the 211th effective range EN211 and the 212th effective range EN212 are both second passable ranges in which the passable diameter can be secured. Therefore, "before the change," a penetrating object mark is displayed on both the 211th effective range EN211 and the 212th effective range EN212. Additionally, to indicate that both "pipe level (core)" are second passable ranges in which the passable diameter can be secured, the numerical values for the range in which the core can pass are displayed, such as "3235-3276" and "3660-3665."

On the other hand, even under the "changed" conditions, there are two second passable ranges: effective range 221 EN221 and effective range 222 EN222. Therefore, the 32nd calculation result display screen CR32 displays two second passable ranges: effective range 221 EN221 and effective range 222 EN222 as calculation results. In this example, the passable diameter is larger "after the change" than "before the change." Therefore, it is assumed that the passable diameter cannot be secured with effective range 221 EN221. On the other hand, effective range 222 EN222 is a second passable range in which a passable diameter can be secured, just like effective range 212 EN212 "before the change."

Therefore, after the change, a penetrating object mark will be displayed in the 222nd effective range EN222. Also, the "piping level (core)" will show the range through which the core can pass, such as "3247-3270," to indicate that the 222nd effective range EN222 is the second passable range where the passing diameter can be secured.

On the other hand, the 221st effective range EN221 does not display the penetrating object mark because the passing diameter cannot be secured. Also, the "Pipe level (core)" is displayed as "Cannot be selected," indicating that it is not in the second passable range where the passing diameter can be secured.

In this way, recalculation allows the user to easily try out various conditions. Also, as shown in the figure, depending on the setting value being changed, even if the passage diameter was secured before the change, it may be necessary to check whether the passage diameter can be secured after the change. In such cases, the design device updates the screen displaying the calculation results to reflect the changed setting value in real time. In this way, the user can easily check whether the passage diameter can be secured even after the change.

<Example of saving reference data>
The above-described calculation results or recalculation results are stored as data, for example, as follows.

Figure 16 shows an example of saving a calculated or recalculated pattern. The following explains the example of calculating the beam and route shown in Figure 10. For example, when the "Save" button is pressed on a screen displaying the calculation results as shown in Figure 12, the calculation results are saved.

The example shown in the figure is one in which calculation results, setting values and routes that are the assumptions for the calculations are saved. Specifically, as shown in the figure, the route to be saved is drawn using auxiliary lines RF. Then, calculation result data indicating the calculation results of the route that becomes the auxiliary lines RF (such as the results shown in Figures 12 and 13) is saved in the attributes.

In this way, by saving calculation results, setting values, routes, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "reference data"), users can view the saved content for future reference. During design, various setting values, etc. may be tried out. In such cases, the work of repeatedly entering similar setting values occurs. On the other hand, if reference data is saved, the work of entering setting values can be reduced by reading the reference data and reflecting it in the setting values. Furthermore, the results of various trials like this can often be used as reference later. Therefore, being able to save reference data makes design, etc. easier for users.

<Simulation example>
For example, the design device displays the change in the second passable range depending on the presence or absence of a beam through the following simulation. First, it is assumed that the following state exists.

Figure 17 shows an example of simulation results before the change. For example, suppose there are five beams, as shown in the figure: first beam B1, second beam B2, third beam B3, fourth beam B4, and fifth beam B5 (as shown, first beam B1 and fifth beam B5 are the same type of beam. Therefore, on the screen shown, first beam B1 and fifth beam B5 are displayed together as one). In this case, the second passable range is calculated. Then, suppose the calculation results are as shown on the 41st calculation result display screen CR41.

Specifically, as shown in the figure, two second passable ranges, the 231st effective range EN231 and the 232nd effective range EN232, are calculated. Furthermore, both the 231st effective range EN231 and the 232nd effective range EN232 are narrow second passable ranges, and therefore are second passable ranges for which the passing diameter cannot be secured. Therefore, in this example, the penetrating object mark is not displayed in either the 231st effective range EN231 or the 232nd effective range EN232.

Furthermore, if neither the 231st effective range EN231 nor the 232nd effective range EN232 has a sufficient passing diameter, it will be displayed as "Penetration not possible" at the "Pipe level (core)."

The design system therefore simulates the case where, for example, the fourth beam B4 is not present. For example, when the image showing the fourth beam B4 (hereinafter referred to as the "fourth beam image TB") is clicked on the 41st calculation result display screen CR41, the design system performs calculations under conditions that exclude the fourth beam B4. As a result, for example, the following display is displayed:

Figure 18 shows an example of the simulation results after the change. Compared to Figure 17, the 42nd calculation result display screen CR42 differs in that the "Beam penetration pattern" is displayed as "Beam 1 - Beam 2 - Beam 3 - Beam 5." In other words, this calculation result is the result of performing a calculation using four beams: the first beam B1, the second beam B2, the third beam B3, and the fifth beam B5, excluding the fourth beam B4.

In this case, this would apply if the fourth beam B4 was removed or if a route was created that did not pass through the fourth beam B4.

As shown in the figure, the calculation excludes the fourth beam B4, so the second passable range is calculated as the 233rd effective range EN233. The 233rd effective range EN233 is wider than the 231st effective range EN231 and the 232nd effective range EN232. In other words, the 233rd effective range EN233 is the second passable range in which the passable diameter can be secured. Furthermore, because the 233rd effective range EN233 is the second passable range in which the passable diameter can be secured, the penetrating object mark OUT4 is displayed.

Note that the fourth beam image TB is displayed in a different color, etc., than the display in Figure 17 to indicate that the fourth beam B4 has been excluded.

In this way, the user can see that by removing the fourth beam B4 or by taking a route that does not pass through the fourth beam B4, the second passable range can be achieved, ensuring a sufficient passing diameter.

<Example of recalculation using saved routes, etc.>
First, it is assumed that beam data and penetrating object data indicating the conditions of the route and beams, etc., as shown below, and calculation result data indicating the calculation results calculated based on these data are saved.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of a saved route. The example shown is an example where the calculation results (assuming there is one pattern) calculated for the route indicated by auxiliary line RF are saved. In addition, in the example shown, a reference value RF1 is displayed. Specifically, reference value RF1 indicates the result of the "piping level (core)". In other words, reference value RF1 indicates that the calculation results for the route shown in the figure include a second passable range in the range of "FL + 3660" to "FL + 3665" where the passing diameter can be ensured. Then, for the data saved in this way, the following calculation results are saved:

Figure 20 shows an example of saved calculation results. As shown, in the pattern where "No." is "2," the "Pipe Level (Core)" is "3660-3665," and the pattern where "No." is "2" is the pattern indicated by reference value RF1.

When "Update" is pressed on the screen shown, the design device will perform recalculation. Specifically, the design device will read the latest design data (hereinafter simply referred to as "latest data") and reflect it in the setting values, etc. Next, the design device will recalculate the first passable range, second passable range, etc. based on the new design values, etc.

Design data may differ from the time the data was saved to the current time. Therefore, even for a saved route, calculation results may change from the time the data was saved due to design changes such as changes to the beam material or placement. Therefore, the design device reads the latest data and performs recalculation. This makes it easy to see calculation results that reflect design changes, etc.

For example, as a result of the recalculation, the design device compares the previous calculation result (i.e., the calculation result at the time of saving) with the latest calculation result (i.e., the calculation result that reflects setting values, etc. based on the latest data, etc.). If the comparison shows that the previous calculation result and the latest calculation result match, the design device will display a dialog message, etc. to the user, informing them that the calculation result has not changed since it was saved.

On the other hand, as a result of recalculation, the previous calculation result may differ from the latest calculation result. For example, the design device displays the previous calculation result and the latest calculation result as follows:

Figure 21 shows an example of the display of the latest calculation results, etc. In other words, the latest calculation results are as shown in the figure. When the "Display previous value" button is pressed on the screen shown, the design device switches to a screen showing the previous value of the calculation result.

Figure 22 shows an example display of the calculation results of the previous value. That is, the calculation results of the previous value are as shown in the figure. When the "Display latest" button is pressed on the screen shown in the figure, the design device switches to a screen showing the latest calculation results.

In this example, the positions of "Beam 2" and "Beam 4" (Beam 2 and Beam 4 are assumed to be the same type of beam) have been changed. Specifically, the previous calculation result showed that there was a second passable range for "Beam 2" and "Beam 4" where a penetrating object could pass under the beams. On the other hand, the latest calculation result showed that there was no case where a penetrating object could pass under "Beam 2" or "Beam 4", and the second passable range became a range that penetrated all of "Beam 2" and "Beam 4".

For example, if a user presses "Show previous value" and "Show latest value" in succession to switch the display screen, the user can easily find changes. In this way, the calculation results at the time of saving are compared with the latest calculation results, and the comparison results are displayed, allowing the user to easily see what has changed since saving.

<Example of adding or overwriting>
First, assume that one pattern is saved as shown in Fig. 19. In this state, when the "Save" button is pressed on the screen displaying the calculation results, such as Fig. 21, the design device saves the calculation results for a new pattern.

In such cases, an operation to select "Add" or "Overwrite" is performed. For example, when the data shown in Figure 19 is saved and the calculation results of the pattern shown in Figure 21 are saved as "Add," the data will be saved as follows:

Figure 23 shows an example of saving additional calculation results, etc. Compared to Figure 19, the example shown differs in that two patterns are saved.

Reference value RF1 indicates that one pattern is stored, while reference value RF2 indicates that two patterns are stored.

On the other hand, if you select "Overwrite," the data saved in Figure 19 will be overwritten and saved so that the calculation results are in the pattern shown in Figure 21.

<Example of functional configuration>
24 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration in the first embodiment. For example, the design system 10 has a functional configuration including a beam data input unit 10F1, a penetrating object data input unit 10F2, a calculation unit 10F3, a calculation result data generation unit 10F4, and a display unit 10F5.

The beam data input means 10F1 performs a beam data input procedure for inputting beam data D20, which indicates setting values for the beam. For example, the beam data input means 10F1 is realized by an interface 11H3, etc.

The penetrating object data input means 10F2 performs a penetrating object data input procedure to input penetrating object data D21 that indicates settings, etc. for penetrating objects. For example, the penetrating object data input means 10F2 is realized by an interface 11H3, etc.

The calculation means 10F3 performs a calculation procedure to calculate the first passable range EN1 in which each beam can be penetrated or avoided based on the beam data D20, the penetrating object data D21, etc. For example, the calculation means 10F3 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

The calculation result data generation means 10F4 performs a calculation result data generation procedure to generate calculation result data D18 indicating a second passable range EN2 through which any of the multiple beams can pass, based on each of the first passable ranges EN1 calculated by the calculation means 10F3. For example, the calculation result data generation means 10F4 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

The display means 10F5 performs a display procedure to display the second passable range EN2 based on the calculation result data D18. For example, the display means 10F5 is realized by the interface 11H3, etc.

As described above, when the beam data D20 and penetrating object data D21 are input, the first passable range EN1 can be calculated, for example, as shown in Figure 8 or Figure 9. The first passable range EN1 is then calculated for each beam.

Next, calculation result data D18 is generated based on the first passable range EN1 calculated for each beam. In this way, with calculation result data D18, the second passable range EN2 can be displayed, for example, as shown in Figure 12.

By displaying the second passable range EN2, the design device, etc., can inform the user of the calculation results, such as the location where a penetrating object can pass, or whether or not it is possible to pass the penetrating object, as determined based on regulations, when passing F through multiple beams.

Second Embodiment
The second embodiment is realized, for example, by an apparatus having the same system configuration and hardware configuration as the first embodiment. The following description will focus on differences from the first embodiment, and will omit descriptions that overlap with the first embodiment.

The second embodiment is a case where support materials are installed when designing the layout of pipes, ducts, etc. (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "objects").

The following describes an example in which an object is supported using two types of support material: a first support member and a second support member.

The first support member is, for example, a combination of an insert (sometimes called an "insert fitting") and a mounting fitting. Hereinafter, it is assumed that the insert is embedded in the structure of a building or the like at the position where the first support member will be installed, and then the mounting fitting is inserted into the insert. In the following explanation, the combination of the insert and the mounting fitting will simply be referred to as an "insert."

The second support member is a so-called "earthquake-resistant support member" that is installed to make the object earthquake-resistant. Specific examples of earthquake-resistant support members will be described later.

Furthermore, the spacing at which the first support members are installed is determined by predetermined rules (hereinafter referred to as "first rules"), etc.

On the other hand, the spacing etc. for installing the second support members is determined by rules (hereinafter referred to as "second rules") that are different from the first rules.

Specific examples of the first and second rules will be described later.

<Overall processing example>
For example, the design device determines the positions at which the first support member and the second support member are to be installed, etc., through the following overall processing.

Figure 25 is a flowchart showing an example of overall processing in the second embodiment.

<Example of input of object data> (Step S11)
In step S11, the design device inputs object data.

The object data is data that indicates, for example, the weight and size of the object. Note that the input values that are entered in advance into the object data are determined by the contents of the first and second rules. In other words, the object data is data that enables calculation of installation intervals, etc. based on the first and second rules.

Specifically, when using the rules of the "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Facilities, 2014 Edition," calculating installation spacing requires input values such as the type of object (for example, piping, square ducts, round ducts, valves, metal ducts, electrical pipes, bus ducts, electrical wiring, or cable racks) and the object's weight. Furthermore, if the object is a water pipe, drain pipe, or brine pipe, the input value is the weight when filled with water.

Therefore, when installing the first and second support members based on the above rules, data such as an object master is input that indicates input values that can identify the type and weight of the object to be supported by the first and second support members.

<Example of input of first support member data> (Step S12)
In step S12, the design device inputs first support member data.

The first support member data is data such as an insert master that can identify the type of first support member, etc. Details of the insert master will be described later.

<Example of input of second support member data> (Step S13)
In step S13, the design device inputs second support member data.

The second support member data is data such as a seismic support member master that can identify the type of second support member, etc. Details of the seismic support member master will be described later.

<Example of input of installation range> (Step S14)
In step S14, the design device inputs the installation range. An example of inputting the installation range will be described later.

<Example of installation of first support member based on first rule> (Step S15)
In step S15, the design device places the first support member based on the first rule. An example of determining the placement position of the first support member will be described later.

<Example of Installation of Second Support Member Based on Second Rule> (Step S16)
In step S16, the design device places the second support member based on the second rule. An example of determining the placement position of the second support member will be described later.

As mentioned above, when installing multiple support members, different rules apply to each support member. Therefore, even if a support member is required when installing it according to a single rule, it may end up being unnecessary when other support members are taken into consideration.

For example, if an earthquake-resistant support member is present, an insert may not be necessary. In other words, there is often no need to install two support members in the same location. In such cases, since the earthquake-resistant support member is installed, an insert is not required, and the insert can be omitted. Specifically, suppose the rules stipulate that inserts be installed at intervals of 2.0 m. On the other hand, suppose the rules stipulate that earthquake-resistant support members be installed at intervals of 6.0 m. Note that the starting point for calculating the intervals is the same. In such a case, at least the positions of 6.0 m, 12.0 m, and 18.0 m overlap as installation locations. In such cases, the installation of an insert can be omitted. Therefore, the number of inserts to be installed can be reduced.

In steps S11 to S16, for example, the following processing is performed:

<Example of installation range input>
26 is a diagram showing an example of inputting an installation range. The following describes an example in which a pipe as shown in the figure is the target object. Furthermore, in the following example, a first support member is first installed in the portion of the entire pipe as shown in the figure that is specified by the installation range.

As shown in the figure, the installation range RG is input by specifying the target range with the cursor. Specifically, first, the position of the first point PT1 is specified. Next, the position of the second point PT2 is specified. In this way, the rectangular range with the first point PT1 and the second point PT2 as diagonals becomes the installation range RG. If an object such as piping is located within the range specified in the installation range RG, it is recognized as a target for installing a support member.

Furthermore, by inputting the installation range RG as shown in the figure, the point where installation of the support members begins (hereinafter referred to as the "starting point") and the route along which the support members will be installed are determined. Specifically, the starting point is set, for example, as follows. Then, from the starting point, earthquake-resistant support members are installed, for example, as follows:

<Example of installing earthquake-resistant support members>
27 is a diagram showing an example of setting a starting point. For example, the starting point is set at the intersection of the side of the rectangle representing the installation range RG and the piping. Therefore, in the illustrated example, two points, a first starting point PTS1 and a second starting point PTS2, are set as starting points.

For example, if the first support member is placed using the first starting point PTS1 as the starting point, the display will be as shown in the figure.

In this example, from the first starting point PTS1, the first support members are installed at intervals determined by a predetermined rule (hereinafter, the intervals will be assumed to be "6.0 m") relative to the piping PI. For example, the interval from the first starting point PTS1 to the seismic support member 2P1 is "6.0 m," as indicated by the interval display DS1. In this way, the seismic support members 2P1 are basically installed every "6.0 m." In this example, the seismic support members are also installed at intervals of "6.0 m" between the seismic support members 2P1 and 2P2, as indicated by the interval display DS2. In this way, the seismic support members are installed within the installation range RG.

In the case of a route that leaves the installation range RG and then returns to the range (such as the right-hand end of the diagram), only the piping PI within the range will be included in the calculation.

Furthermore, if there are support members (hereinafter referred to as "installed support members") already installed in the installation range RG, for example, the design device will delete the installed support members and install new seismic support members.

<Example of installation avoiding areas where installation is not possible>
During installation, the piping PI has sections where earthquake-resistant support members, etc. cannot be installed, such as vertical pipe sections. In such cases, the design device installs earthquake-resistant support members, for example, by avoiding the vertical pipe sections, etc., as follows:

Figure 28 is a diagram (part 1) showing an installation example. For example, in the installation range RG shown in the figure, suppose that the piping PI includes a vertical pipe section OB, i.e., a section where an earthquake-resistant support member cannot be installed.

If earthquake-resistant support members are installed at intervals of 6.0 m, it may be that earthquake-resistant support member 2P3 will be installed on vertical pipe section OB. In such a case, earthquake-resistant support member 2P3 will be installed in a location that avoids vertical pipe section OB, as shown in the figure. In this way, the design system recognizes vertical pipe section OB, etc., and places earthquake-resistant support member 2P3 while avoiding vertical pipe section OB, etc.

Even if seismic support members 2P3 are to be installed in the vertical pipe section OB, it is difficult to install them in the vertical pipe section OB during actual construction work. Once seismic support members 2P3 are installed in such areas, it is often necessary to reinstall the seismic support members 2P3 manually, etc.

Furthermore, if the installation location of the seismic support member 2P3 is changed in this way, all subsequent seismic support members installed based on the seismic support member 2P3 may have to be reinstalled. Therefore, by positioning the seismic support member 2P3 to avoid the vertical pipe portion OB, the workload of reinstalling the seismic support member 2P3 can be reduced.

<Example of display at branch>
Furthermore, if the pipe PI has a branched portion, the interval is calculated and displayed, for example, as follows:

Figure 29 is a diagram (part 2) showing an installation example. For example, we will explain the case where a branch BR is present in the piping PI within the installation range RG shown in the figure.

In this example, branch BR creates a distance DISS between seismic support members 2P7 and 2P9, and a distance DISL between seismic support members 2P8 and 2P9. Furthermore, distance DISL is longer than distance DISS. In such a case, distance display V5 displays the value of distance DISL, i.e., the wider distance.

When there is a branch BR, the branch BR results in multiple routes. Therefore, earthquake-resistant support members are installed for each route. As a result, multiple intervals may occur, as shown in the figure. In such cases, the wider interval is the one that is displayed by the interval display. In many cases, the wider interval exceeds the specified rule and does not satisfy the rule. Therefore, as shown in the figure, by displaying the interval that is most likely to not satisfy the rule, the user can easily check whether the specified rule is being satisfied.

<Example of moving the starting point>
The starting point can be specified by operation. For example, the starting point can be moved as follows:

Figure 30 shows an example of moving the starting point. First, as shown in Figure 27, when the intersection of the side of the rectangle representing the installation range RG and the piping PI is set as the starting point, the starting point is set to a part such as the third starting point PTS3.

On the other hand, for example, as shown in the figure, earthquake-resistant support members may be installed in advance, such as earthquake-resistant support member 2P10. In other words, support members may be installed in the installation range RG taking into account support members such as earthquake-resistant support member 2P10.

In the illustrated example, if seismic support members are installed at the third starting point PTS3, the seismic support members will be installed at intervals narrower than those required by the specified rules. Such installation may result in an unnecessary increase in the number of seismic support members.

Therefore, the part that satisfies the specified rules (in the illustration, it is the part "6.0 m" to the right of earthquake-resistant support member 2P10. Hereinafter, this part will be referred to as the "new starting point PT3". In this way, by moving the starting point and setting new starting point PT3, a support member will be installed from new starting point PT3 within installation range RG. Furthermore, earthquake-resistant support member 2P10 will be included in calculating the spacing even though it is outside the installation range RG. Specifically, it will be as follows:

Figure 31 is a diagram showing an example of a spacing display. As shown, the spacing display V6 displays the spacing DISF between the "existing earthquake-resistant support material" (a support material that is installed outside the installation range RG and that is pre-installed) and the support material to be installed at the starting point. In this way, if the spacing is calculated taking into account the support material that is pre-installed even if it is outside the installation range RG, the user can reduce the work of calculating the spacing between the "existing earthquake-resistant support material" and the newly installed support material, thereby reducing the workload.

<Example of assistance for moving the starting point>
When the starting point is moved to set a new starting point, the design device provides the following assistance to the operation of specifying the new starting point, for example.

Figure 32 is a diagram showing an example of assistance in moving the starting point. For example, when the installation range RG is input, starting point PT4 is set at intersection point PTS4 as the initial value. In this example, starting point PT4 is moved from the position of intersection point PTS4, and a different position is set as the new starting point. For example, if you click and specify starting point PT4 at intersection point PTS4, you can then move starting point PT4 by specifying the position that will become the new starting point.

For example, the design device first displays auxiliary lines L2, L3, L4, L5, etc. to assist in moving the starting point.

The auxiliary line L2 is a line segment that coincides with one side of the rectangle that represents the installation range RG. The intersection of the auxiliary line L2 and the piping PI (shown as candidate point CRP1 in the figure) becomes one of the candidate points for the new starting point. Below, we will explain an example where the characteristic point is the intersection of the auxiliary line and the piping.

Auxiliary line L3 is a line segment whose position in the X direction coincides with that of earthquake-resistant support member 2P11. The intersection of auxiliary line L3 and piping PI (shown as candidate point CRP2 in the figure) becomes one of the candidate points for the new starting point.

Auxiliary line L4 is a line segment whose position in the X direction coincides with that of earthquake-resistant support member 2P13. The intersection of auxiliary line L4 and piping PI (shown as candidate point CRP3 in the figure) becomes one of the candidate points for the new starting point.

Auxiliary line L5 is a line segment whose position in the X direction coincides with that of earthquake-resistant support member 2P12. The intersection of auxiliary line L5 and piping PI (shown as candidate point CRP4 in the figure) becomes one of the candidate points for the new starting point.

When the cursor that moves the starting point approaches candidate point CRP1, candidate point CRP2, candidate point CRP3, or candidate point CRP4, the design device assists in aligning the cursor with candidate point CRP1, candidate point CRP2, candidate point CRP3, or candidate point CRP4. Note that the degree of proximity required for assistance is set in advance.

As shown in the figure, for example, users often want to set a new starting point at a position that is aligned in the X-axis direction with earthquake-resistant support members installed on other pipes. Therefore, as shown in the figure, by showing positions that are aligned in the X-axis direction with other earthquake-resistant support members using auxiliary lines, users can easily understand the positions of candidate points.

As mentioned above, users often move the starting point to a position that is aligned in the X-axis direction with earthquake-resistant support members installed on other pipes, i.e., to a position that would become a candidate point in the example shown. However, when using a mouse or other device to specify the position of a candidate point, there are cases where an incorrect position is specified due to an operational error, etc.

Therefore, by assisting the cursor to align with candidate point CRP1, candidate point CRP2, candidate point CRP3, or candidate point CRP4 as it approaches, the candidate point can be specified with high accuracy.

If a new starting point is set and earthquake-resistant support members are installed, the result will be, for example, as follows:

Figure 33 is a diagram (part 3) showing an installation example. For example, when compared to Figure 31, the location where the earthquake-resistant support members are installed is different. In this way, changing the starting point may change the location or quantity of earthquake-resistant support members.

<Example of operations for selecting an object>
For example, suppose the object is composed of three pipes as shown below.

Figure 34 shows an example of an object made up of multiple pipes. For example, assume that the object is made up of a first pipe PI1, a second pipe PI2, and a third pipe PI3.

Of these three pipes, there may be cases where you want to install earthquake-resistant support members only on the first pipe PI1. In such a case, for example, if the first pipe PI1 is selected by clicking on it, an earthquake-resistant support member will be placed on the first pipe PI1, while no earthquake-resistant support members will be placed on the second pipe PI2 or the third pipe PI3. Note that the first pipe PI1, the second pipe PI2, and the third pipe PI3 are all within the installation range.

In this way, by being able to select the target object, it is possible to install earthquake-resistant support members only on targeted pipes, etc., as shown in the figure.

The following explanation will be given using an example in which the first pipe PI1 is the target object. The explanation will be given using an example in which the first pipe PI1 has an installed support member such as the one shown below.

Figure 35 shows an installation example (part 4). As shown in the figure, in this example, earthquake-resistant support members 2P14 and 2P15 have already been installed on the first piping PI1.

Next, a starting point PT5 is set relative to the position of earthquake-resistant support member 2P15. Then, when the earthquake-resistant support member is set to be installed, earthquake-resistant support member 2P16 is installed at a distance from earthquake-resistant support member 2P15 that is determined by the rules (in the illustrated example, this is 6.0 m, obtained, for example, from the earthquake-resistant support material master).

Therefore, the distance display V7 will show "6.0 m." In this way, earthquake-resistant support members, etc. will be installed starting from the installed support members, etc.

<Example of interval change midway>
There are cases where the spacing between support members is changed during installation, such as in the following cases:

Figure 36 shows an example where the spacing changes midway. An example of a situation where the spacing changes midway is at the joint between pipes PI11 and PI12.

Pipes PI11 and PI12 have different pipe sizes. In the example shown, pipe PI11 is larger than pipe PI12. When sizes differ like this, the spacing may differ based on rules. Specifically, in this example, spacing DIS1 is applied to the spacing between pipes PI11. As shown by spacing display V8, spacing DIS1 is set to "9.0 m."

On the other hand, the distance between pipes PI12 is determined by distance DIS2. Distance DIS2 is set to 6.0 m, as shown by distance display V9. In other words, this is an example in which distance DIS2 is stricter than distance DIS1.

As shown in the figure, there is a junction where the piping PI11 and piping PI12 switch. The stricter of the two distances DIS1 and DIS2 is used for the distance at this point, i.e., distance DIS3. Specifically, the same "6.0 m" as distance DIS2 is used for distance DIS3. Therefore, the distance display V10, which indicates the distance for distance DIS3, displays "6.0 m."

As such, depending on the rules used, there may be areas where the spacing overlaps. In such cases, the strictest of the multiple numerical values is adopted. In areas where multiple numerical values can be applied, applying the strictest numerical value often poses no problems in terms of safety or rules. Therefore, in cases where multiple objects are mixed, adopting the narrower spacing and installing support members can reduce risks in terms of safety and rules.

For example, if you perform the following steps, the installation will be confirmed.

Figure 37 is a diagram (part 5) showing an installation example. In the case of Figure 36, first, the starting point is assumed to be starting point PT6. Next, to confirm the range and route for placement, an operation is performed to input the point at which the placement starting from starting point PT6 will end (hereinafter referred to as the "end point"; in the illustrated example, this is end point PT7).

For example, the end point PT7 is specified by clicking the position of the start point PT6, and then clicking the position of the end point PT7.

When this operation is performed, it is determined that the area between the starting point PT6 and the end point PT7, i.e., the target range EA1, is the range in which earthquake-resistant support members will be installed. Furthermore, if there are already installed support members within the target range EA1, they will be deleted and new earthquake-resistant support members will be installed.

<Example of installation on multiple routes>
For example, when a range similar to the target range EA1 shown in FIG. 37 is targeted, the starting point PT6 is moved as follows to perform installation.

Figure 38 shows an installation example (part 6). Below, we will explain an example in which the starting point set at the position of starting point PT6 is moved to the position of new starting point PT8, as shown in the figure.

For example, suppose there is an obstacle in range EA2. In other words, range EA2 is an area where earthquake-resistant support members cannot be installed. Therefore, since earthquake-resistant support members cannot be installed in an area such as range EA2, the starting point may be moved to a new starting point PT8, i.e., a position immediately before range EA2, making range EA2 an area where the installation of earthquake-resistant support members is not necessary.

In this way, by setting a new starting point near an obstacle, etc., the area where earthquake-resistant support members cannot be installed can be made into an area where installation of earthquake-resistant support members is not required.

In such a case, earthquake-resistant support members will be installed starting from the new starting point PT8 and extending in both directions along route A1 and route A2. Specifically, this is determined as follows:

Figure 39 is a diagram (part 7) showing an installation example. Compared to Figure 37, even if the target object and target area are the same, the starting point is different, resulting in different installation locations for the earthquake-resistant support members. In this way, being able to install along multiple routes makes it easy to install earthquake-resistant support members while avoiding obstacles, etc.

<Example of display taking into account support members outside the installation range>
40 is a diagram (part 8) showing an installation example. For example, assume that earthquake-resistant support members 2P20, 2P21, and 2P22 are installed in the installation range RG as shown in the figure. Meanwhile, assume that already-installed support members 2P17, 2P18, and 2P19 have already been installed. Furthermore, assume that already-installed support members 2P17, 2P18, and 2P19 are installed outside the installation range RG.

As shown in the figure, earthquake-resistant support member 2P20, earthquake-resistant support member 2P21, and earthquake-resistant support member 2P22 are assumed to be the earthquake-resistant support members installed on the leftmost side of installation range RG. Therefore, it is assumed that there are no earthquake-resistant support members within installation range RG to the left of earthquake-resistant support member 2P20, earthquake-resistant support member 2P21, and earthquake-resistant support member 2P22.

In such cases, the distance between the newly installed earthquake-resistant support member and the already installed support member is calculated, and the calculation result is displayed in the distance display. Specifically, the distance between the already installed support member 2P17 and the earthquake-resistant support member 2P20 is displayed in the distance display V11. The distance between the already installed support member 2P18 and the earthquake-resistant support member 2P21 is displayed in the distance display V12. The distance between the already installed support member 2P19 and the earthquake-resistant support member 2P22 is displayed in the distance display V13.

In this example, intervals wider than those defined by the rules are highlighted. Specifically, this is an example in which the interval display V11 is highlighted.

The spacing between the pipes on which the installed support members 2P17 and earthquake-resistant support members 2P20 are installed is 9.0 m as specified by the rules. However, the spacing between the installed support members 2P17 and earthquake-resistant support members 2P20 is 12.0 m, as indicated by the spacing display V11. Therefore, because the spacing between the installed support members 2P17 and earthquake-resistant support members 2P20 is wider than the spacing specified by the rules, the spacing display V11 highlights it. Note that the spacing display V11 is an example of a display that emphasizes the displayed numerical value indicating the spacing by enclosing it in a decorative rectangle.

On the other hand, the spacing between the installed support member 2P18 and the seismic support member 2P21 is 6.0 m as specified by the rules. Meanwhile, the spacing between the installed support member 2P18 and the seismic support member 2P21 is 4.6 m, as indicated by the spacing display V12. Therefore, the spacing between the installed support member 2P18 and the seismic support member 2P21 is narrower than the spacing specified by the rules, and so the rules are met. Therefore, the spacing display V12 is not highlighted, indicating that the rules are met.

In many cases, rules must be met even in locations that straddle the boundaries of the installation range RG. On the other hand, because installed support members have already been installed, it may not be possible to narrow the spacing by changing the position of the installed support members. Therefore, as shown in the figure, it is necessary to check whether the spacing between newly installed seismic support members and already installed support members meets the rules. Furthermore, by highlighting spacing that does not meet the rules, as shown in the figure, the user can reduce the amount of work required to manually check the spacing for seismic support members installed near the boundaries of the installation range RG, thereby reducing the workload.

<Example of earthquake-resistant support member settings>
The earthquake-resistant support members are set, for example, in the dialogue SET shown in Fig. 27. Specifically, for example, the following setting values are set in the dialogue SET.

The "top floor" is set to the top floor of the building where the earthquake-resistant support member is installed. For example, the "top floor" is obtained from design data or floor information. If it cannot be obtained from the data, the field is left blank and the user enters a number.

The "target floor" is set to the floor of the building where the seismic support member will be installed. For example, the "target floor" is obtained from design data or floor information. If it cannot be obtained from the data, the field is left blank and the user enters a value.

"Floor type" is set to one of "upper floor," "intermediate floor," or "basement/first floor." "Upper floor" refers to the top floor in a two- to six-story building. "Upper floor" refers to the second floor from the top in a seven- to nine-story building. "Upper floor" refers to the third floor from the top in a ten- to twelve-story building. "Upper floor" refers to the fourth floor from the top in a thirteen-story or higher building. "Intermediate floor" refers to any floor that does not fall under "upper floor" or "basement/first floor."

The "Seismic Resistance Class" setting can be set to either "S," "A," or "B."

"Support method" sets the method for supporting the object using earthquake-resistant support members.

When you press "Settings," a screen will appear where you can view and set the various pre-entered master inputs.

<Examples of earthquake-resistant support members>
The earthquake-resistant support member is, for example, a support member having the following specifications.

First, each earthquake-resistant support member covers a length that is "1/2" the distance between the adjacent earthquake-resistant support members installed on either side of the position where it is installed, as follows:

Figure 41 shows an example of the length covered by an earthquake-resistant support member. Hereinafter, the earthquake-resistant support member in question will be referred to as "earthquake-resistant support member 2P24." Therefore, the adjacent earthquake-resistant support members are "earthquake-resistant support member 2P23" (the adjacent member to the left in the figure) and "earthquake-resistant support member 2P25" (the adjacent member to the right in the figure). In addition, the length covered by earthquake-resistant support member 2P24 will be referred to as "coverage length DIS4."

"1/2" of the distance DIS5 between earthquake-resistant support member 2P24 and earthquake-resistant support member 2P23 corresponds to half of the support length DIS4 (the left half in the illustration).

The "1/2" distance DIS6 between earthquake-resistant support members 2P24 and 2P25 corresponds to half of the support length DIS4 (the right half in the illustration).

Therefore, "1/2" of the distance DIS5 and "1/2" of the distance DIS6 are the corresponding length DIS4. The earthquake-resistant support member is a support member that reinforces the object installed at the corresponding length DIS4 to make it earthquake-resistant, i.e., to withstand shaking caused by earthquakes, etc.

Seismic support members are specified, for example, as follows:

Supported weight: 2.8 kN (kilonewtons)
Duct outer diameter: 500 mm (millimeters)
Slab height: 4000 mm
Duct bottom height: 2900 mm
Piping weight: 5 kN
Bracket width (corresponding to "support dimension l" in the following diagram): 1000 mm
Bracket height (corresponding to "support dimension h" in the following diagram): 1500 mm
The "weight assigned" is a numerical value that can be calculated, for example, as follows: By searching the component weight master using the pipe type and diameter as keys, the weight assigned in 1-meter units can be obtained. Then, by multiplying the 1-meter unit by the assigned length, the "weight assigned" is calculated.

The "support bracket width" is a value calculated as follows. First, the width is calculated based on the outer diameter and steel size of the pipe or duct to be installed. Next, the "support weight" is used as a key to obtain the appropriate steel width from the seismic support component master, and this value is determined.

"Support bracket height" is a value calculated based on the height of the duct or pipe, the height of the slab, and the steel size.

"Steel size" is a value obtained from the seismic support component master using "support weight," "bracket width," and "bracket height" as keys.

"Anchor size" is a value obtained from the seismic support component master using "support weight," "bracket width," and "bracket height" as keys.

The above values can be illustrated as follows:

Figure 42 shows an example of an earthquake-resistant support member. Figure 42 (A) shows a case where a rectangular duct is being supported as the object. On the other hand, Figure 42 (B) shows a case where a pipe is being supported as the object.

The width of the upper part of the receiving bracket DIS7 is determined by the number of anchors.

<Example of earthquake-resistant support component master>
The seismic support member master is, for example, a table such as that shown in "Appendix 2.1-6 Example of a Selection Table for Type A Seismic Design Instruction Components for Horizontal Piping (No. 6)" in "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment, 2014 Edition, Published by the Building Center of Japan, General Incorporated Foundation, Edited by the Editorial Committee for the Guideline for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment, First Edition Published September 25, 2014" (hereinafter simply referred to as "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment"). For example, in the case of such a seismic support member master, in the above example of "pipe weight: 5 kN,""bracket width: 1000 mm," and "bracket height: 1500 mm," the "steel size" is determined to be "channel steel 75 x 40 x 5 x 7." Furthermore, the "anchor size" is determined to be "M10."

<Examples of the first and second rules>
The first rule and the second rule are, for example, a table shown in "Guideline Table 6.2-1 Application of Seismic Support" in the "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment."

For example, when using such rules, the spacing is determined by the "installation location," the type of object (in the "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment," this is either "piping," "duct," "electrical wiring," or "cable rack"), and the seismic class, etc.

The "installation location," object type, and seismic resistance class are set, for example, using Dialog SET.

In addition, depending on the seismic class, the specifications for seismic support members will differ, as shown, for example, in "Appendix 2.1-6 Example of a Selection Table for Type A Seismic Indicator Components for Horizontal Piping (No. 6)" in the "Guidelines for Seismic Design and Construction of Building Equipment" and "Appendix 2.2-6 Example of a Selection Table for Type SA Seismic Indicator Components for Horizontal Piping (No. 6)" in the "Guidelines for Seismic Design and Construction of Building Equipment."

Specifically, by using "Appendix 2.1-6 Example of a Selection Table for Type A Earthquake-Resistant Materials for Horizontal Piping (No. 6)" from the "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment" and "Appendix 2.2-6 Example of a Selection Table for Type SA Earthquake-Resistant Materials for Horizontal Piping (No. 6)" from the "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment," once the "pipe weight P (kN)," "support material dimension l (mm)," and "support material dimension h (mm)" are determined for each earthquake resistance class, the "material specification A material," "slab fixing" for "structure mounting anchors," and "beam fixing" for "structure mounting anchors" can be determined.

As mentioned above, the specifications for earthquake-resistant support members are determined by the earthquake resistance class, etc.

<Example of an insert master>
The insert master is, for example, a table shown in "Solution Table 6.2-1 (a) Examples of standard support intervals for horizontally running steel pipes and copper pipes" in "SHASE-S010-2013 Standard Specifications for Air-Conditioning and Sanitary Equipment Construction, Society of Heating, Air-Conditioning and Sanitary Engineers of Japan (Public Corporation)" and "Solution Table 6.2-1 (b) Examples of standard support intervals for horizontally running pipes" in "Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Minister's Secretariat, Government Buildings Department, Standard Specifications for Public Building Construction (Mechanical Equipment Construction Edition), 2013 Edition."

With this data, for example, once the "nominal diameter (A)" and whether it is a "steel pipe" or "copper pipe" are determined based on "Table 6.2-1 (a) Example of standard support intervals for horizontal steel pipes and copper pipes" in the "Society of Heating, Air-Conditioning and Sanitary Engineers of Japan (SHASE-S010-2013) Standard Specifications for Heating, Air-Conditioning and Sanitary Equipment Construction," the "support interval" and other information can be determined.

Similarly, once the "nominal diameter" and "classification" are determined, the standard support spacing can be determined based on, for example, "Example of Standard Support Spacing for Horizontal Pipes" in "Table 6.2-1 (b) of the Standard Specifications for Public Building Construction (Mechanical Equipment Construction Edition) 2013 Edition, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Minister's Secretariat, Government Buildings Department."

Third Embodiment
The third embodiment is realized, for example, by an apparatus having the same system configuration and hardware configuration as the first embodiment. The following description will focus on differences from the first embodiment, and will omit descriptions that overlap with the first embodiment.

The overall processing in the third embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment. For example, in the third embodiment, the overall processing is performed as follows:

<Overall processing example>
FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing in the third embodiment.

<Example of beam data input> (Step S21)
In step S21, the design device inputs beam data.

First, as in the first embodiment, beam data D20 is input. Then, when the beam data D20 is input, a drawing such as the one below is generated and displayed on the screen.

Figure 44 shows an example of beam data input. As shown in the figure, in a building, first, columns PIL ("columns" that fall under the category of "major parts in terms of structural strength" in Article 1, Paragraph 1, Item 3 of the Enforcement Order of the Building Standards Act) are placed. Below, the location and area where columns PIL are placed are indicated by solid black in the figure.

The "girders" are then placed between the columns PIL and PIL. Hereinafter, the beam that will become the girder among the multiple beams used will be referred to as the "girder GI." In the diagram, the position and range of the girder GI are indicated by hatching.

Furthermore, "sub-beams" are arranged between the main beams GI and GI. Hereinafter, of the multiple beams used, the sub-beams will be referred to as "sub-beams SB." In addition, in the figure, the position and range of the sub-beams SB are indicated by a matte finish.

In addition, the main beams GI and the secondary beams SB are considered "beams and other horizontal members" under Article 44 of the Building Standards Act Enforcement Order.

In this way, beam data D20 is data that indicates the location where each beam is installed.

Also, if the location where the sleeve SLE will be installed has been determined, the location and range where the sleeve SLE will be installed are entered as shown in the figure.

<Example of input of specific installation data> (Step S22)
In step S22, the design device inputs specific installation object data.

Specific installation data for beams, which indicates the specifications of the joints installed in each beam, is entered using a settings screen such as the one below.

Figure 45 shows an example of a joint setting screen. The following explanation uses an example in which a specific installation object installed on a beam is a joint. The first setting screen CR51 first displays the input results of the beam data D20. For example, the beam data D20 is displayed as shown in the beam information display BD.

The example of the beam information display BD shown in the figure is an example where two types of main girders, "G1" and "G2", and two types of secondary girders, "B1" and "B2", have been input.

"Web length" refers to the "web height" of an H-beam or I-beam, and indicates the height dimension of each beam. Also, on the first setting screen CR51 and in the figure, it is the vertical dimension.

"Flange length" refers to the "flange width" of an H-beam or I-beam, and indicates the dimension in the short direction of each beam. Also, on the first setting screen CR51 and in the figure, it is the dimension in the depth direction.

"Length" refers to the longitudinal dimension of the H-beam or I-beam. Also, on the first setting screen CR51 and in the figure, it refers to the horizontal dimension.

The beam information display BD shows the data that will become the beam data D20 in advance, or the results entered on the first setting screen CR51.

"Quantity" is the result of tallying the number of each beam placed.

Furthermore, the first setting screen CR51 allows for the setting of joint JTs. For example, the settings for joint JTs include the location where the joint JT is to be installed, the size of the joint JT, and the type of joint JT. In this example, the joint setting unit JD sets the joint JTs for each beam and for each beam type (in the example shown, one line corresponds to each beam type).

"Bracket method" is an example of a UI for setting the type of joint JT. Specifically, in this example, if "Bracket method" is checked ON, the type of joint JT is the type used to connect beams using the bracket method (sometimes called "bracket format"), etc. On the other hand, in this example, if "Bracket method" is checked OFF, the type of joint JT is the type used to connect beams using the non-bracket method (sometimes called "non-bracket format"), etc.

The bracket method is used when connecting girders to other girders, while the non-bracket method is used when connecting girders to columns.

"L1" is an example of the setting of the position where the joint JT is installed. Specifically, "L1" indicates how far the joint JT is to be installed from the center of the pillar PIL, based on the center of the pillar PIL.

"J1" and "J2" are examples of setting the size of the joint JT. Specifically, "J1" or "J2" is set to the longitudinal dimension of the joint JT.

The joint setting section JD switches input items depending on the "bracket type" setting, i.e., the type of joint JT and the type of beam.

Specifically, in the example shown, the input item changes depending on whether it is a "girder" or a "sub-girder." For example, if it is a "girder" (the "G1" and "G2" rows in the illustration), the input item is "bracket method."

Furthermore, the setting of "Bracket Method" for "Girder" determines whether "L1" is an input item. For example, if it is a "Girder", "J1" is an input item regardless of the "Bracket Method". Also, if it is a "Girder", input of "J2" is disabled.

For "beam" (rows "B1" and "B2" in the diagram), the input item is "J2". On the other hand, for "beam", input of "bracket method", "L1", and "J1" is invalid.

Once the specific installation data has been entered as described above, a screen like the one below will be displayed.

Figure 46 is a diagram showing an example of the display of an impenetrable area. Compared to the screen shown in Figure 44, this differs in that, because specific installation objects are installed, an area where penetrating objects cannot penetrate (hereinafter referred to as the "impenetrable area IM") is displayed based on rules, etc.

The impenetrable area IM includes not only the location and range where the specific installation object is installed, but also a certain range from the specific installation object (the distance that is impenetrable is set in advance). Therefore, the impenetrable area IM includes not only the range where the joint JT is installed and the range nearby, but also the range where the sub-beam SB and column PIL are installed and the range nearby.

<Example of input of penetrating object position> (Step S23)
In step S23, the design device inputs the position of the penetrating object.

The penetrating object position is data that indicates the position on the beam through which the penetrating object will pass. For example, the penetrating object position is input as the route RT through which the penetrating object will pass, relative to the arrangement of beams, columns, etc. In this example, the route RT indicates the center of the penetrating object. Therefore, the penetrating object position is calculated so that it passes through the size of the penetrating object entered in the penetrating object data D21, with the position indicated by the route RT as the center.

<Example of condition input> (Step S24)
In step S24, the design device inputs the position of the penetrating object.

<Example of penetrating object data input> (Step S25)
In step S25, the design device inputs the penetrating object data.

<Example of setting the reinforcing ring> (Step S26)
In step S26, the design device sets the reinforcing ring.

<Example of Determination of Whether the Position of a Penetrating Object Satisfies the Condition> (Step S27)
In step S27, the design device determines whether the position of the penetrating object satisfies the condition. If it is determined that the position of the penetrating object satisfies the condition (YES in step S27), the design device proceeds to step S28. On the other hand, if it is determined that the position of the penetrating object does not satisfy the condition (NO in step S27), the design device proceeds to step S29.

<Display example of "possible"> (Step S28)
In step S28, the design device indicates that the penetrating object position satisfies the conditions and is a "possible" design.

<Example of "Impossible"display> (Step S29)
In step S29, the design device notifies the user that the position of the penetrating object does not satisfy the conditions and that the design is "impossible."

For example, steps S24 to S29 are implemented using the following GUI:

Figure 47 shows an example of a routing settings screen. For example, on a screen where the route RT is determined (i.e., the screen shown in Figure 46), the following settings are made using the second settings screen CR52.

The penetrating object data D21 is entered, for example, using the penetrating object setting button U1. In this example, the type of penetrating object, such as "pipe" and "cold water supply pipe," is entered.

The "Display beam impenetrable area" display switch checkbox U2 is a GUI that switches between displaying and hiding the impenetrable area IM, as shown in Figure 46. In other words, when the display switch checkbox U2 is ON, the impenetrable area IM is calculated and displayed on the drawing. This calculation takes into account data on reinforcing rings, conditions, and penetrating objects, for example, entered using the GUI as shown below.

Figure 48 shows an example of a setting screen for reinforcing rings, etc. For example, the third setting screen CR53 is displayed when the information setting button U3 is pressed on the second setting screen CR52.

The third setting screen CR53 displays, for example, an image screen IMG. As shown in the figure, the image screen IMG shows cross-sectional views of each setting value (in the figure, these are the values set in the first setting unit SET1 and the second setting unit SET2).

In this example, the first setting unit SET1 sets the distance from the outer diameter of the penetrating object (in a setting where a reinforcing ring RI is installed on the pipe PI, the outer diameter of the penetrating object is determined from the outer diameter of the reinforcing ring RI) to the end of a specific installation object (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "first distance"; this distance is indicated by "E1" on the image screen IMG), such as the "joint-to-ring" distance. That is, a first setting value such as "20 mm" is set in the first setting unit SET1.

Similarly, in this example, the distance from the outer diameter of one penetrating object to the outer diameter of another penetrating object (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "second distance"; this distance is indicated by "E2" on the image screen IMG), such as the "ring-to-ring" distance, is set in the second setting unit SET2. That is, a second setting value such as "20 mm" is set in the second setting unit SET2.

In this example, it is determined whether both conditions are met: the first distance is greater than or equal to a first set value, and the second distance is greater than or equal to a second set value. In other words, if both the first distance and the second distance are sufficiently secured, it is determined that the position of the penetrating object satisfies the conditions. By making this determination, it can be confirmed that the distance stipulated by law is secured from both the specific installation object and other penetrating objects.

Furthermore, penetrating object data is entered on the second setting screen CR52. For example, penetrating object data is entered in the fire-resistant covering method input section IN14 and the penetrating object size display section IN15. Note that the fire-resistant covering method input section IN14 and the penetrating object size display section IN15 are the same as in the first embodiment.

Also, on the second setting screen CR52, the reinforcing ring setting unit SETR sets the reinforcing ring to be installed on the penetrating object. Specifically, the "reinforcing ring" is entered as the result of selecting the type of reinforcing ring RI. Then, when the type of reinforcing ring RI is set in the "reinforcing ring" setting unit SETR, the "ring inner diameter" and "ring outer diameter" are displayed based on a pre-constructed database, etc. In this way, once the reinforcing ring RI is set, the design device can determine whether the outer diameter of the penetrating object with the reinforcing ring RI attached meets the conditions. In other words, when using a reinforcing ring RI, laws and regulations may stipulate that the first distance, second distance, etc. are sufficiently secured, taking into account the installation of the reinforcing ring RI. Therefore, once the reinforcing ring RI is set using the reinforcing ring setting unit SETR, it is possible to check whether the conditions of the law, etc. are met, taking into account the installation of the reinforcing ring RI.

Then, when the "OK" button is pressed on the third setting screen CR53, the conditions based on the first and second setting values, as well as the settings for the reinforcing ring RI, are confirmed.

As described above, the position of the penetrating object is checked to see if it meets the conditions. For example, the check result, "possible" or "impossible," is displayed as a message.

<Example of sleeve arrangement> (Step S30)
In step S30, the design device places a sleeve if the position of the penetrating object satisfies the conditions. For example, the design device displays the following screen.

Figure 49 shows an example of a screen display with a sleeve placed. Compared to Figure 46, the screen shown in Figure 49 differs in that a sleeve SLE is placed on the route RT.

The sleeve SLE is placed at the position where the root RT intersects with the beam (either the main beam GI or the secondary beam SB).

The type of sleeve SLE to be placed can also be selected using the GUI.

Furthermore, if placement of the sleeve SLE is "impossible," an error message is displayed. In this way, if the position of the penetrating object satisfies the conditions (if "possible" is displayed in step S28), the sleeve SLE to be placed at the penetrating object position is set.

On the other hand, if the position of the penetrating object does not satisfy the conditions ("Impossible" is displayed in step S29), the design device, for example, returns to step S21 and re-enters each piece of data.

<Example of functional configuration>
50 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration in the third embodiment. For example, the design device has a functional configuration including beam data input means 10F1, penetrating object data input means 10F2, display means 10F5, specific installation object data input means 10F21, penetrating object position input means 10F22, and determination means 10F23.

The beam data input means 10F1, penetrating object data input means 10F2, and display means 10F5 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment, for example.

The specific installation data input means 10F21 performs a specific installation data input procedure to input specific installation data D22 that indicates setting values, etc. for a specific installation. For example, the specific installation data input means 10F21 is realized by an interface 11H3, etc.

The penetrating object position input means 10F22 performs a penetrating object position input procedure to input the position of the penetrating object in the longitudinal direction where the penetrating object is installed. For example, the penetrating object position input means 10F22 is realized by an interface 11H3 or the like.

The determination means 10F23 performs a determination procedure to determine whether the position of the penetrating object satisfies a condition. For example, the determination means 10F23 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

As described above, when beam data D20, penetrating object data D21, specific installation data D22, and penetrating object position D23 are input, the beam position, penetrating object position, specific installation, etc. can be identified, for example, as shown in Figure 46. Then, for each beam, it can be determined whether the penetrating object position satisfies the conditions in the longitudinal direction.

Laws and regulations often stipulate that a certain distance must be maintained between a penetrating object and a specific installation or other penetrating object. Therefore, the user UR needs to check whether the respective distances meet the conditions set forth in the regulations. Therefore, the design device determines the location where a penetrating object can pass through a beam determined based on regulations, or whether it is possible to pass a penetrating object through a beam, and the determination result is displayed to the user UR, allowing the user UR to know the determination result.

Fourth Embodiment
The fourth embodiment is realized, for example, by an apparatus having the same system configuration and hardware configuration as the second embodiment. The following description will focus on differences from the second embodiment, and will omit descriptions that overlap with the second embodiment.

The fourth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the overall processing. For example, in the fourth embodiment, the overall processing is performed as follows:

<Overall processing example>
FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing in the fourth embodiment.

<Example of input of object data> (Step S41)
In step S41, the design device inputs object data.

<Example of input of support member data> (Step S42)
In step S42, the design device inputs support member data.

For example, the design device allows you to input object data and support member data using a settings screen like the one below.

Figure 52 shows an example of a setting screen for the object and support member. For example, the fourth setting screen CR54 is a screen consisting of an object input section SETA, a spacing input section SETB, and a placement position setting section SETC.

The object input unit SETA displays object types in a tree structure, for example. Specifically, in the illustrated example, there are three object types: "duct," "pipe," and "flexible pipe." Furthermore, "duct" has two types: "square duct" and "round duct." Furthermore, "pipe" has four types: "steel pipe," "vinyl pipe," "copper pipe," and "cast iron pipe." Finally, "flexible pipe" has two types: "polybutene pipe" and "lead pipe." For example, object types are displayed in a tree structure based on the object's material, and the user selects the object to place. In this way, when the object type, etc., is entered, the object data is entered.

The spacing input unit SETB sets the spacing at which the support members are installed. For example, the spacing is set based on rules stipulated by law, etc.

Figure 53 shows examples of spacing determined by rules. For example, as shown in the figure, the spacing for installing support members is determined by laws and regulations such as the "Standard Specifications for Public Building Construction (Mechanical Equipment Construction Edition) 2019 Edition." "Classification" indicates the object. Meanwhile, "nominal diameter" indicates the size of the object.

In the illustrated example of applying the law, rules are set so that for steel pipes and stainless steel pipes with a nominal diameter of up to 100 mm, the spacing between support members is 2.0 m or less. Therefore, if the object is a steel pipe, the rules for installing support members are set in the support member data so that, for example, if the object's nominal diameter (the value set as the "upper limit size" in Figure 52) is up to 100 mm, the support members are installed at intervals of 2.0 m, and if the nominal diameter is greater than 100 mm, the support members are installed at intervals of 3.0 m. Rules are set for each type of object and size, such as nominal diameter, in accordance with the laws and regulations.

Furthermore, the placement position setting unit SETC sets rules that are different from those set in the spacing input unit SETB. In the example shown, rules are set for four cases: "(1) Dimension from joint center point," "(2) Spacing at curved section," "(3) Dimension from end portion," and "(4) Minimum insert spacing."

For example, in the case of "(1) Dimensions from the joint center point," rules are set to install support members at the following intervals for each type of object.

Square duct 200mm
Round duct 400mm
Piping 300mm
In the case of "(2) Spacing at curved portions," rules are set for each type of object so that support members are installed at the following spacings:

Square duct 1800mm
Round duct 1500mm
Piping 800mm
In the case of "(3) Dimensions from the End", rules are set for each type of object so that support members are installed at the following intervals:

Square duct 200mm
Round duct 200mm
Piping 150mm
In the case of "(4) Minimum insert spacing", rules are set so that support members are installed at the following spacing for each type of object.

Square duct 150mm
Round duct 150mm
Piping 150mm
Other rules such as "15 mm" are set as the "distance from the duct."

Furthermore, for example, the type of pipes that are examples of objects is set as follows:

Figure 54 shows an example of piping classification. For example, this is an example of piping being classified into four categories based on the rules of the "Guidelines for Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction of Building Equipment, 2014 Edition."

Specifically, "Pipe classification for earthquake-resistant support/insert" indicates the classification above for installing support members. "Material of straight pipe" indicates the material that makes up the object. In this example, pipes are classified into "steel pipe," "vinyl pipe," "copper pipe," and "cast iron pipe" depending on their material. Rules are then identified based on the classification.

<Example of specifying installation location> (Step S43)
In step S43, the design device specifies an installation position. For example, the installation positions that are candidates for installing the support members are set using the following GUI, and then a process of specifying the installation positions is executed.

Figure 55 shows an example of a settings screen for processing to specify a setting position. For example, the fifth settings screen CR55 is composed of a simultaneous placement setting section SETD, a multiple route consolidation setting section SETE, a type setting section SETF, a hanging member setting section SETG, a bolt diameter setting section SETH, and a hanger type setting section SETI.

When the simultaneous placement setting unit SETD is "ON", the support member is placed.

When the multiple route grouping setting unit SET is "ON," if multiple objects are close to each other, a single support member will be placed around the multiple objects.

The type setting section SETF inputs the result of selecting the type of support member to be placed.

When the hanging member setting unit SETG is "ON," hanging members such as hanging bolts, pipe support brackets, and hangers are placed together with the support members. On the other hand, when the hanging member setting unit SETG is "OFF," only the support members are placed.

The bolt diameter setting unit SETH sets the diameter of the suspension bolt. The bolt diameter setting unit SETH is used when the simultaneous placement setting unit SETD is "ON" and the suspension member setting unit SETG is "ON."

The hanger type selection is input into the hanger type setting unit SETI. The hanger type setting unit SETI is used when the simultaneous placement setting unit SETD is "ON" and the hanging member setting unit SETG is "ON."

In addition, the support members are installed in a pattern that satisfies the conditions stipulated by laws and regulations. For example, they are arranged in one of the following three patterns stipulated in the "Standard Drawings for Public Building Equipment Construction (Mechanical Equipment Construction Edition) 2019 Edition."

Figure 56 is a diagram showing an example of the first pattern. For example, the first pattern is an example of a combination of a "suspension insert," a "suspension bolt," and a "suspension band" as the suspension member. Furthermore, the first pattern is a pattern used when the object is a "round duct" or "pipe."

Figure 57 shows an example of the second pattern. For example, the second pattern is an example of a combination of "2 inserts," "2 hanging bolts," and "structural steel" as the hanging members. The second pattern is also used when the target object is a "rectangular duct."

Figure 58 is a diagram showing an example of the third pattern. For example, the third pattern is an example of a combination of hanging members consisting of "2 inserts," "2 hanging bolts," "structural steel," and "U-bolts x number of objects." The third pattern is also used when the objects are "round ducts" or "pipes," and there are multiple objects.

For example, after the above settings are made, the installation location is identified as follows:

Figure 59 shows an example of identifying an installation location. For example, we will use the first object TAG1 shown in the figure as an example.

The first object TAG1 is a pipe. It is assumed that rules stipulate that inserts, which are an example of support members, should be installed on the first object TAG1 at a predetermined interval (referred to as "a" in the following explanation; the value of "a" is set in advance, for example, "a = 6 m"). Furthermore, it is assumed that the inserts are set to be installed starting from the starting point P0.

In such a case, based on the rules, the first installation position is identified as the first position P1, which is a distance "a" to the right of the starting point P0 in the figure. Next, the second position P2, which is a further distance "a" to the right of the first position P1 in the figure, is identified as the second installation position. In this way, installation positions are identified for each "a" from the starting point P0 along the direction in which the first object TAG1 is installed.

<Example of Determining Whether the Installation Position is a Seam> (Step S44)
In step S44, the design device determines whether the identified installation position is a joint. If it is determined that the installation position is a joint (YES in step S44), the design device proceeds to step S46. On the other hand, if it is determined that the installation position is not a joint (NO in step S44), the design device proceeds to step S45.

<Example of Determining Whether the Object at the Installation Position is a Joint with a Variable Width> (Step S45)
In step S45, the design device determines whether the object at the specified installation position is a joint whose width changes. If it is determined that the object at the installation position is a joint whose width changes (YES in step S45), the design device proceeds to step S46. On the other hand, if it is determined that the object at the installation position is not a joint whose width changes (NO in step S45), the design device proceeds to step S47.

<Example of changing the installation position> (Step S46)
In step S46, the design device changes the identified installation position.

First, in step S44, the following cases are determined to be seams, for example:

Figure 60 shows a first example of what is determined to be a seam. Compared to Figure 59, it differs in that the first object TAG1 is connected to the second object TAG2. However, the rules for the starting point P0 and the spacing for each "a" are the same.

In this example, the third position P3 is determined to be a seam (YES in step S44). On the other hand, the first position P1 and the second position P2 are not determined to be seams (NO in step S44).

For example, the third position P3 is changed in step S46 as follows:

Figure 61 shows a first modification of the first example that is determined to be a seam. The example shown is an example in which the third position P3 is changed to the fourth position P4 in step S46.

As shown in the figure, the change is made so that the spacing is shortened. Specifically, the spacing between the second position P2 and the fourth position P4 is changed from "a" before the change to "b," which is shorter. In other words, the spacing is changed by applying the relationship "a<b."

If the interval is changed to be longer (in this example, by changing it to move to the right), the interval will be longer, and may be longer than the interval specified by the rules. On the other hand, if the interval is changed to be shorter, the interval will still be shorter than before the change, so it will comply with the rules.

Note that the fifth position P5, which is the installation position identified next after the fourth position P4, is identified after the change, i.e., at an interval starting from the fourth position P4. As shown in the figure, the interval "a" is applied to installation positions from the fifth position P5 onwards.

Next, in step S45, for example, an object in the following installation position is determined to be a joint with a variable width.

Figure 62 is a diagram showing an example of a joint with a variable width. The elbow JNT1 shown in the figure is an example of a joint with a variable width. Specifically, if the installation position is in the elbow region ER, the installation position is changed to avoid the elbow region ER.

Joints with variable widths, such as the elbow JNT1, are objects for which the installation of support members is required by law and other regulations. For such objects, the locations for installing support members are predetermined. Therefore, support members are not installed at intervals determined by rules, but rather their installation positions are determined later by user operation.

As described above, if the installation position is located at a joint or a connection, the installation position will be changed to avoid the joint or connection.

<Example of installation of support member> (Step S47)
In step S47, the design device installs the support member at the installation position (or the new installation position if it has been changed).

<Example of functional configuration>
63 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration in the fourth embodiment. For example, the design device has a functional configuration including a support member data input unit 10F40, an installation position specifying unit 10F41, a change unit 10F42, and a display unit 10F5.

For example, the display means 10F5 is the same as in the third embodiment, etc.

The support member data input means 10F40 performs a support member data input procedure to input support member data D40 in order to set rules for placing support members. For example, the support member data input means 10F40 is realized by an interface 11H3 or the like.

The installation position identification means 10F41 performs an installation position identification procedure that identifies installation positions at intervals determined by rules set in the support member data D40. For example, the installation position identification means 10F41 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

If the installation position is a joint or a coupling, the change unit 10F42 performs a change procedure to change the installation position. For example, the change unit 10F42 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

It is often better not to install support members in locations that are weaker than other locations, such as joints. Therefore, even when selecting locations for installing joints, they are likely to be locations that are later removed by user UR operations, etc.

In addition, laws and regulations may require the installation of support members for joints. To comply with such regulations, joints may be equipped with parts for installing the support members. Therefore, the installation position of the support members for joints may be predetermined depending on the installation position of the parts, etc., and support members installed in other positions are often unnecessary support members. Therefore, the installation position of the support members that support joints is changed to avoid the joints so that the installation position can be determined by operation by the user UR, etc. In this way, the installation of unnecessary support members can be reduced.

Fifth Embodiment
The fifth embodiment is realized, for example, by an apparatus having the same system configuration and hardware configuration as the fourth embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the fourth embodiment, and will omit any overlapping description with the fourth embodiment.

The fifth embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment in the overall processing. For example, in the fifth embodiment, the overall processing is performed as follows:

<Overall processing example>
64 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing in the fifth embodiment. For example, steps S41, S42, S43, and S47 are the same processes as those in the fourth embodiment, and the same reference numerals are used to denote the same steps, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

For example, when object data and support member data are input, a drawing like the one below can be generated.

Figure 65 is a diagram showing an example of an arrangement of multiple objects. The example shown is an example of a case where there are three pipes, the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53, which are examples of multiple objects. Below, we will explain the objects and their arrangement as shown in the figure.

In this example, for the 51st piping TAG51, starting from the 51st piping starting point Z1, candidate installation locations for installing the support member are identified according to pre-set rules (step S43).

Similarly, in this example, for the 52nd piping TAG52, starting from the 52nd piping starting point Z2, candidate installation positions for installing the support member are identified according to pre-set rules (step S43).

Furthermore, in this example, for the 53rd piping TAG53, candidate installation positions for installing the support member are identified using pre-set rules, starting from the 53rd piping starting point Z3 (step S43).

For example, the installation positions are identified as position 501 P501 to position 527 P527.

<Example of input of first condition> (Step S51)
In step S51, the design device inputs a condition (hereinafter referred to as a "first condition") for grouping a plurality of objects together.

<Example of input of second condition> (Step S52)
In step S52, the design device inputs a condition (hereinafter referred to as the "second condition") used to determine whether or not a plurality of objects can be supported by the support member.

<Example of Determination of Whether the First Condition is Satisfied> (Step S53)
In step S53, the design device determines whether the first condition is satisfied.

<Example of Determination of Whether the Second Condition is Satisfied> (Step S54)
In step S54, the design device determines whether the first condition is satisfied.

If both the first and second conditions are met (YES in both steps S53 and S54), the design device proceeds to step S55. On the other hand, if neither the first nor the second conditions are met (NO in either step S53 or step S54), the design device proceeds to step S47.

For example, the first and second conditions are entered on the settings screen shown below.

Figure 66 shows an example of a settings screen for entering the first and second conditions.

For example, the first condition is input in the first condition input section CD51. The second condition is input in the second condition input section CD52. Specifically, the conditions input in the first condition input section CD51 and the second condition input section CD52 are as follows:

Figure 67 is a diagram illustrating examples of the first and second conditions. Below, we will explain an example of determining whether the three pipes, 51st pipe TAG51, 52nd pipe TAG52, and 53rd pipe TAG53, can be combined, as in the second section AP2 or the fifth section AP5.

The first condition is whether the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are adjacent to each other within a predetermined range. Specifically, the maximum width MW is first input in the first condition input section CD51 (step S51). In this example, there is a certain amount of space (hereinafter referred to as "end space SD") between the pipes and the support member. For example, the end space SD is preset to 100 mm.

Whether the first condition is met (step S53) is determined based on whether multiple objects, including the end spaces SD at both ends, are close to each other within a predetermined range. In this example, "1800 mm" is set in the first condition input section CD51. Therefore, if the 51st pipe TAG51, 52nd pipe TAG52, and 53rd pipe TAG53 are close to each other within the "1800 mm" range (determination including the end spaces SD at both ends), it is determined that the first condition is met (YES in step S53). On the other hand, if any of the pipes are located far apart and the objects (determination including the end spaces SD at both ends) do not fall within the predetermined range, it is determined that the first condition is not met (NO in step S53).

The second condition is whether the elevation difference between the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 is within a certain range. Specifically, the allowable elevation difference MH is first input in the second condition input section CD52 (step S52).

Whether the second condition is met (step S54) is determined based on whether the elevation difference between the multiple objects is within a certain range. In this example, "10 mm" is set in the second condition input section CD52. Therefore, if the largest elevation difference between the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 is within the "10 mm" range, it is determined that the second condition is met (YES in step S54). On the other hand, if any pipe is higher in the height direction (the Z-axis direction in the figure) than the other pipes and the elevation difference between the multiple objects is not within a certain range, it is determined that the second condition is not met (NO in step S54).

It is often best not to place objects that are far apart together. Therefore, based on the first condition, only objects that are close to each other within a specified range are targeted for grouping. Also, if there is a large difference in elevation between multiple objects, they often cannot be supported by the same support member. Therefore, based on the second condition, only objects that have a difference in elevation within a certain range, i.e., objects installed at similar heights, are targeted for grouping. In this way, objects that meet both conditions are judged to be grouped together.

<Example of replacing with a bundled support member> (Step S55)
In step S55, the design device replaces the multiple support members with support members that collectively support multiple objects (hereinafter referred to as "collectively support members"). For example, if the collectively support input unit CK is "ON", the first and second conditions are determined, and then replacement with the collectively support members is performed.

The following describes an example in which the pipes located in the first section AP1, second section AP2, third section AP3, fourth section AP4, and fifth section AP5 satisfy the first and second conditions and are objects that can be consolidated. Hereinafter, it will be assumed that replacement (step S55) will be performed in the order of the first section AP1, second section AP2, third section AP3, fourth section AP4, and fifth section AP5.

Figure 68 shows an example of replacement in the first section. Compared to Figure 65, the installation positions were position 502 P502 and position 512 P512 before the replacement, but after the replacement, they are position 601 P601, where the bundled support member is placed.

The 502nd position P502 is the installation position of the support member that supports the 51st piping TAG51. Similarly, the 512th position P512 is the installation position of the support member that supports the 52nd piping TAG52.

In the first section AP1, the 51st pipe TAG51 and the 52nd pipe TAG52 are the multiple objects that are collectively supported. Therefore, the support members installed at positions 502 P502 and 512 P512 are replaced with collectively supported members that collectively support the 601st position P601.

The 601st position P601 is the position closest to the starting point between the 502nd position P502 and the 512th position P512. In this example, the 502nd position P502 is closer to the 51st piping starting point Z1 and the 52nd piping starting point Z2 than the 512th position P512. Therefore, the 601st position P601 is the position of the 502nd position P502.

Furthermore, after the support members located at position 502 P502 and position 512 P512 are replaced with group support members located at position 601 P601, the installation positions of the other support members are redefined based on the rules. For example, using position 601 P601 as the reference, position 511 P511, position 503 P503, and position 513 P513 are redefined as position 600 P600, position 602 P602, and position 603 P603. In this way, based on the installation positions after replacement, the surrounding installation positions are redefined to intervals that comply with the rules.

Figure 69 shows an example of an exchange in the second section.

In the second section AP2, the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are multiple objects to be supported collectively. As with the first section AP1, in the second section AP2, multiple support members are replaced with a collective support member.

Specifically, the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are replaced with a collective support member that collectively supports them at the 604th position P604, the 605th position P605, and the 606th position P606.

The 604th position P604 is, for example, the 602nd position P602. Then, using the 604th position P604 as the reference, the 605th position P605 and the 606th position P606 are identified at intervals determined by the rule.

Note that when multiple objects are grouped together, the rules may differ. For example, if the objects are of different types, one object may have a rule that specifies installation positions at intervals of "6m", while the other object may have a rule that specifies installation positions at intervals of "9m". In such cases, the stricter rule will be adopted. Specifically, if there is a "6m" rule and a "9m" rule, the "6m" rule will be adopted.

As with the first section AP1, once the 604th position P604, the 605th position P605, and the 606th position P606 are determined, the design device re-specifies the surrounding installation positions such as the 607th position P607, the 608th position P608, and the 609th position P609 based on rules. Furthermore, the installation positions in the first section AP1 are fixed and are not affected by the replacement and re-specification in the second section AP2.

Figure 70 shows an example of an exchange in the third section.

In the third section AP3, the 52nd pipe TAG52 and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are the multiple objects to be supported collectively. Specifically, at the 610th position P610, the 52nd pipe TAG52 and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are replaced with a collective support member that collectively supports them.

Furthermore, as with the second section AP2, etc., once the 610th position P610 is determined, the design device re-identifies the surrounding installation positions such as the 611th position P611, the 612th position P612, and the 613th position P613 based on the rules.

Figure 71 shows an example of an exchange in the fourth section.

In the fourth section AP4, the 52nd pipe TAG52 and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are the multiple objects to be supported collectively. Specifically, at the 614th position P614 and the 615th position P615, the 52nd pipe TAG52 and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are replaced with a collective support member that collectively supports them.

Furthermore, as with the second section AP2, etc., once the 614th position P614 and the 615th position P615 are determined, the design device re-identifies the surrounding installation positions such as the 616th position P616, the 617th position P617, and the 618th position P618 based on the rules.

Figure 72 shows an example of an exchange in the fifth section.

In the fifth section AP5, the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are the multiple objects to be supported collectively. Specifically, at the 619th position P619, the 51st pipe TAG51, the 52nd pipe TAG52, and the 53rd pipe TAG53 are replaced with a collective support member that collectively supports them.

As described above, when the process of replacing the bundled support members is performed in the first section AP1 to the fifth section AP5, the installation positions will be as follows, for example.

Figure 73 shows an example after replacement. As shown, compared to Figure 65, the difference is that the installation positions are now the 600th position P600 to the 623rd position P623 due to replacement in the first section AP1 to the fifth section AP5. In this way, the support members are replaced with bundled support members and arranged to use the bundled support members.

<Example of functional configuration>
74 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration in the fifth embodiment. For example, the design device has a functional configuration including a support member data input means 10F40, an installation position specifying means 10F41, a first condition input means 10F51, a second condition input means 10F52, a first determination means 10F53, a second determination means 10F54, an exchange means 10F55, and a display means 10F5.

The support member data input means 10F40, installation position identification means 10F41, and display means 10F5 are, for example, the same as those in the fourth embodiment.

The first condition input means 10F51 performs a first condition input procedure for inputting a first condition D51 that indicates a judgment criterion, such as whether multiple objects are close to each other within a predetermined range. For example, the first condition input means 10F51 is realized by an interface 11H3 or the like.

The second condition input means 10F52 performs a second condition input procedure for inputting a second condition D52 that indicates a judgment criterion, such as whether the elevation difference between multiple objects is within a certain range. For example, the second condition input means 10F52 is realized by an interface 11H3 or the like.

The first determination means 10F53 performs a first determination procedure to determine whether the first condition D51 is satisfied. For example, the first determination means 10F53 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

The second determination means 10F54 performs a second determination procedure to determine whether the second condition D52 is satisfied. For example, the second determination means 10F54 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

If either the first condition or the second condition is met, the replacement means 10F55 performs a replacement procedure to replace multiple support members installed on each object with a single support member. For example, the replacement means 10F55 is realized by the CPU 11H1, etc.

If multiple objects satisfy the first condition and, when grouped together, satisfy the second condition, using a grouping support member can reduce the number of support members that need to be installed.

<Modification>
The design device may have the following configuration, for example.

<Modifications of input/output screens, etc.>
The method for calculating the first passable range is not limited to the above method, but may be determined based on predetermined rules or the like.

The setting values that can be entered on the input/output screen may differ depending on the options selected in the calculation method input section IN11. For example, when "Calculate valid range only," the GUI may prevent the entry of setting values for each item in "Pipe type selection," such as outer diameter, insulation thickness, air gap, and required opening diameter. In this way, if unnecessary setting values are automatically made unavailable for entry, the user can reduce the effort of entering unnecessary setting values and lighten their workload.

The types of penetrating objects may be other than those shown in the illustration. In other words, the penetrating object may be an object other than the "pipe" or "duct" shown in the examples above. For example, the penetrating object may be a cable, etc.

Setting values for "top floor" and "target floor," etc., may be obtained from design data, etc. In this way, when data is automatically obtained from design data, etc. and setting values are input for calculation, the user has less work to do to input setting values, reducing the workload.

In addition, data such as the time that a penetrating object can withstand a fire, etc. (hereinafter referred to as the "fire resistance reference time") may be obtained from design data, etc. For example, the fire resistance reference time may be obtained from among "1 hour," "2 hours," "3 hours," etc.

The fire resistance standard time may also be determined by regulations. Specifically, it is set forth in Article 8 of the Fire Service Act Enforcement Order. More specifically, for "compartments with fire-resistant floors or walls without openings as defined in Article 8 of the Fire Service Act Enforcement Order," the "Notice No. 53 (March 31, 1995) on the Structure of Ordinance 8 Compartments and Shared Compartments and the Handling of Piping, etc. Penetrating Such Compartments" stipulates that "E. Piping and penetrations, as a whole, must be able to withstand heating during a typical fire as defined in Article 107, Paragraph 1 of the Building Standards Act Enforcement Order for at least two hours." In such cases, the fire resistance standard time is set to "two hours." In this way, if the setting value defined in regulations can be automatically input or selected, the user can reduce the amount of work required to input the setting value, thereby reducing their workload, compared to having to look up and input the regulations.

Note that "Coating" and "[t2] Fireproof Coating Thickness (Beam Body)" may be grayed out or otherwise disabled for input or output if the "Beam Type" is anything other than "S." In this way, automatically disabling unnecessary setting values reduces the user's effort to input unnecessary setting values, thereby easing their workload.

The numerical values such as "[H] required opening diameter" may be values with additional leeway.

In addition, values may be input into the penetrating object dimension display unit IN15, etc. In other words, the penetrating object dimension display unit IN15 may be a GUI or the like that allows the user to input any value. In such cases, related values may be recalculated based on the value input by the user. With this configuration, it becomes easier for the user to input various setting values and conduct examinations. In other words, with this configuration, the workload of the user recalculating various setting values can be reduced.

The first passable range display unit IN16, etc., may display a fraction, such as "1/3." That is, depending on the rules or the user, fractions may be easier to use. Therefore, a GUI that displays fractions may be easier for the user to operate.

If the "Required Opening Diameter [H]" exceeds "1/3" of the "Beam Depth [D]", an error message may be displayed. When such an error message is displayed, the user will know that there is a beam that cannot be opened to the "Required Opening Diameter [H]".

Note that values such as "[L1] Edge Distance Dimension" may be common across different beam types. Using common values in this way reduces the need to repeatedly input the same setting values. This reduces the user's workload of inputting setting values, etc.

The input/output screen, i.e., the input of beam data, input of penetrating object data, and output of the calculation results of the first passable range, is not limited to the screen shown in the figure. In other words, the calculation of beam data, penetrating object data, and first effective range may be performed using other methods.

For example, the size and material of pipes and other penetrating objects are regulated by regulations such as the Building Standards Act for purposes such as strength and disaster prevention. Specifically, pipes and other pipes are regulated by Article 129-2-5 of the Enforcement Order of the Building Standards Act. More specifically, the outer diameter of water supply pipes, electrical pipes, and other pipes that penetrate semi-fireproof fire compartments, etc., as determined by the Minister of Construction pursuant to Article 129-2-5, Paragraph 1, Item 7, Sub-item (b) of the Enforcement Order of the Building Standards Act, is regulated by Ministry of Construction Notification No. 1422 of May 31, 2000. Therefore, the input/output screen displays the necessary information to calculate dimensions and other specifications that meet the above regulations. However, regulations do not have to be regulated by laws and regulations such as the Building Standards Act. For example, internal company regulations that are stricter than the Building Standards Act could be used. Therefore, depending on the regulations and calculation method to be applied, settings other than those shown in the figure may be entered. With this configuration, it is possible to calculate the passable area and other specifications by applying regulations stricter than the Building Standards Act.

The design device does not need to calculate the second passable range in which the passing diameter can be secured. The above example is an example in which the result of determining whether or not the passing diameter can be secured within each second passable range is displayed. In other words, whether or not the passing diameter can be secured is displayed with a penetrating object mark, and the calculation result of whether or not the passing diameter can be secured is displayed.

On the other hand, if "Calculate only valid range" is selected in the "Calculation method" on the input/output screen, the design device may perform processing that does not calculate the second passable range (in the illustrated example, this is the range indicated as "valid range"), i.e., does not determine whether the passable diameter can be secured.

In design, etc., there are cases where users want to know the second passable range without specifying specific settings for the penetrating object, i.e., the "Pipe Type Selection" items, outer diameter, insulation thickness, air gap, required opening diameter, etc. Therefore, the design system displays the second passable range without specifying the required opening diameter, etc. In this case, the "Pipe Level (Core)" is displayed as "-". This allows users to know the second passable range without entering design values for the penetrating object. In design, etc., users may first want to know whether there is a range in which the penetrating object can pass straight through (indicating cases where the penetrating object does not need to be placed above or below to pass through in order to avoid beams). In such cases, users can select "Calculate valid range only" and calculate the second passable range, allowing them to know the range in which the penetrating object can pass straight through.

<Modification of display of passable range>
In the above example, identical beams are displayed together, but the display may also be made separately even if there are identical beams. In some cases, such a display is easier to see. Also, it may be possible to switch between displaying identical beams together or separately. With such a configuration, the second passable range, etc., can be displayed in an easy-to-see manner.

The calculation may take into account the gradient. That is, although the above example was explained using a horizontal pipe, the target does not have to be a horizontal pipe. In this way, by taking the gradient into account, the range can be calculated with high accuracy even when a gradient is present.

The patterns may be sorted and displayed on the display screen. For example, the "beam penetration pattern," "number of sleeves," "piping level (core)," and "effective range" in the above example are displayed in descending order of second passable range. Similarly, other items may be set as the sorting key. In this way, when the second passable ranges are displayed in descending order, the user can easily identify the second passable range that provides the most room for the penetrating object to pass through.

Note that upper and lower limits may also be displayed on the display screen. For example, on the screens shown in Figures 11 and 12, the design device indicates the upper and lower limits with circles. Specifically, the upper limit of the first pattern PTN1 is displayed as a first pattern upper limit mark OUT25. On the other hand, the lower limit of the first pattern PTN1 is displayed as a first pattern lower limit mark OUT26.

Similarly, the upper limit of the second pattern PTN2 is indicated by the second pattern upper limit mark OUT23. Meanwhile, the lower limit of the second pattern PTN2 is indicated by the second pattern lower limit mark OUT24.

In this way, when the upper and lower limit locations are highlighted with marks or the like, the user can easily identify the upper and lower limit beams. Depending on the design, it may be possible to change the upper limit beam or the lower limit beam. Or, it may be possible to bypass the upper limit beam or the lower limit beam and create a different route. By making design changes in this way, the second passable range can be widened. Therefore, a display configuration like this makes it easier for users to make design changes.

It is desirable that the marks indicating the upper and lower limits be displayed in different colors, for example. With this configuration, the design device can display the upper and lower limits on the screen in an easy-to-understand manner for the user.

It is also desirable that a display screen such as that shown in FIG. 11 or 12 be operable to enlarge or reduce the screen. For example, when a mouse wheel is rotated while a display screen such as that shown in FIG. 11 or 12 is displayed, the screen is enlarged or reduced in accordance with the direction and amount of rotation of the wheel. Note that the operation of enlarging or reducing the screen is not limited to operation using the wheel. In other words, the operation of enlarging or reducing the screen may be achieved by other methods, such as a GUI.

In this way, being able to zoom in or out on the screen allows users to change the screen size to one that is easier to see.

The method for distinguishing and displaying beams is not limited to color coding. In other words, the method for distinguishing and displaying beams only needs to allow the user to see whether they are piercing or bypassing when looking at the screen. For example, one side may be filled in with a specified color and highlighted by flashing or hatching. The method for distinguishing and displaying beams may also be set by the user. In other words, the user may be able to specify how to distinguish and display them in a way that is easy for the user to see. When the beams are distinguished and displayed in this way, the design device can distinguish and display them in a way that is easy for the user to distinguish.

The results of comparing the latest calculation results with the previous calculation results may be displayed with differences highlighted, for example. For example, if the beam data is different, the settings for the beam may be highlighted. In this way, highlighting the differences reduces the amount of work required for the user to search for the differences.

The design device may also be able to check for interference with beams or penetrating objects. By being able to check for interference in this way, users can check whether the design involves interfering beams or penetrating objects.

<Modification of the second embodiment>
The interval may be set to a value narrower than the interval specified by the rules, i.e., a stricter interval than the interval specified by the rules. In other words, stricter internal rules may be used than those specified by laws and regulations. In this way, if an interval stricter than the interval specified by the rules can be set, it may be possible to achieve a higher earthquake resistance strength than the earthquake resistance strength assumed by laws and regulations.

The first and second support members may be installed simultaneously, or one of them may be installed beforehand. If one of them is used, an installation position can be calculated that makes effective use of the support material that has already been installed. Furthermore, if support material that has already been installed is used, an arrangement can be calculated that minimizes changes to the placement of the support material that has already been installed. This reduces the amount of work required to change the placement of support material that has already been installed.

The installation range is not limited to a rectangular area specified by diagonal points. For example, the installation range may be specified as a polygon. If the installation range can be specified as a polygon, it is possible to finely separate the area that is the installation range from the area that is not.

When installing support members, if you are installing them to avoid areas where installation is not possible, it is desirable to install them so that the spacing between the support members is narrow. If the spacing between the support members is widened, the spacing may not meet the specified rules. On the other hand, if the spacing between the support members is narrowed, the spacing will often meet the specified rules. Therefore, when avoiding areas where installation is not possible, narrowing the spacing between the support members will allow the installation to meet the specified rules.

Furthermore, for example, as shown in Figure 28, in areas close to the boundary of the installation range, the spacing display may indicate the distance to the boundary of the installation range (in the illustrated example, this is the area indicated by boundary line L1). Specifically, in the illustrated example, earthquake-resistant support member 2P4, earthquake-resistant support member 2P5, and earthquake-resistant support member 2P6 are targeted. Furthermore, it is assumed that there are no other support members beyond earthquake-resistant support member 2P4, earthquake-resistant support member 2P5, and earthquake-resistant support member 2P6 (including outside the installation range RG).

In this case, spacing display V1 indicates the distance from earthquake-resistant support member 2P4 to boundary line L1. Similarly, spacing display V2 indicates the distance from earthquake-resistant support member 2P5 to boundary line L1. Furthermore, spacing display V3 indicates the distance from earthquake-resistant support member 2P6 to boundary line L1. Such spacing displays can be used as a reference when considering whether or not additional support members should be installed to meet specified rules.

The interval display may also display a numerical value that includes the distance of the so-called rise or fall. For example, in the example shown in Figure 29, if there is an obstacle, i.e., a section where it is difficult to install the piping PI in a straight line, the piping PI may be installed to avoid the obstacle.

Specifically, in the diagram, the pipe PI may avoid obstacles not on the X-Y plane (left-right and up-down directions in the diagram), but in the rising or falling direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction, which is the depth direction in the diagram). Such cases can be identified, for example, from design data. Therefore, it is desirable for the interval display V4 to display the interval including the distance of the rising or falling edge. With this type of interval display, even if there is a rising or falling edge, the work of manually recalculating the interval to take the rising or falling edge into account can be reduced.

Note that the candidate point is not limited to the same position in the X-axis direction as the earthquake-resistant support member installed on the other pipe. In other words, the design device may assist in aligning the cursor with a position other than the intersection of the pipe and the auxiliary line drawn from the earthquake-resistant support member installed on the other pipe.

For example, candidate points may be characteristic points such as the end points of a pipe, the center of a pipe (or part of a pipe), a point where a pipe bends, an extension point of a pipe, or an intersection point where multiple pipes are extended (a so-called "virtual intersection"). Operation becomes easier when such points are also included as candidate points.

The starting point (including a new starting point) may be set outside the installation range. If there are obstacles, it is desirable to install the earthquake-resistant support member while avoiding the obstacles. For example, it may be better to set the starting point outside the installation range in order to avoid obstacles. Therefore, if the starting point can be set outside the installation range, flexible settings are possible, allowing for the installation of earthquake-resistant support members while avoiding obstacles.

<Modification of the third embodiment>
The type of specific installation object is not limited to a joint JT. That is, the specific installation object may be an object other than a joint JT. The specific installation object may be an object that is installed on a beam and is determined to be a location that does not allow a penetrating object to pass through, and the material, etc., does not matter. Therefore, it may be possible to set in advance what type of object is to be a specific installation object.

Note that the items that can be set for beams, penetrating objects, and penetrating objects may include items other than those shown in the above example. Furthermore, the input and setting method is not limited to the above example. Specifically, the position at which the joint JT is installed ("L1" in Figure 45) may be set at a distance from the column PIL based on the center of the column PIL. For example, it may be a distance based on the end of the column PIL. In addition, the position at which the joint JT is installed may not be symmetrical in the longitudinal direction of the beam as in the example shown, but may be at different distances on the left and right, or the joint JT may be installed in three or more locations.

Furthermore, the beams and other elements to be set may be highlighted on the first setting screen CR51. For example, when one of beams "G1" to "B2" is selected for setting, the selected beam may be highlighted.

In addition, the values set on the first setting screen CR51 may be saved when the "OK" button is pressed. In this way, data on beams, specific installation objects, and penetrating objects may be saved, and similar settings may be used in other designs in the future.

The position of the penetrating object may be input in a format other than the route RT. For example, the position of the penetrating object may be input in a format such as the distance from the end in the longitudinal direction, based on the end of the beam.

The conditions to be judged are not limited to the two conditions, the first condition and the second condition. In other words, any number of conditions may be used. Furthermore, the conditions are not limited to the distance from the outer diameter of a penetrating object to the end of a specific installed object, and the distance from the outer diameter of a penetrating object to the outer diameter of another penetrating object. For example, the set value may be set to a value between types different from the above examples, such as "column-penetrating object (becomes "ring" if there is a reinforcing ring)" or "sub-beam-penetrating object." Alternatively, separate set values may be set for each combination. Furthermore, values and types stipulated by law, etc. may be used as conditions.

The reinforcing ring setting unit SETR may be able to set things other than the type of reinforcing ring RI. For example, the reinforcing ring setting unit SETR may be able to input the outer diameter of the reinforcing ring RI. Furthermore, the types of "reinforcing ring" that can be selected may be narrowed down to types with a "ring inner diameter" larger than the value calculated by "[H] required opening diameter." Furthermore, it is desirable to extract, from among the narrowed down types, the type of "reinforcing ring" whose "ring inner diameter" value is closest to the value calculated by "[H] required opening diameter." In this way, if a reinforcing ring with an optimal "ring inner diameter" can be automatically extracted, the effort required to set the reinforcing ring RI can be reduced.

In addition, depending on laws and regulations, a reinforcing ring RI may not be required. Therefore, whether a reinforcing ring RI is required may be determined based on the results of "[H] Required opening diameter," etc. For example, if a reinforcing ring RI is not required, it is desirable that the GUI for the reinforcing ring setting unit SETR be unavailable (e.g., grayed out). This makes it possible to prevent an unnecessary reinforcing ring RI from being set.

Furthermore, if the value calculated for "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is smaller than the smallest reinforcing ring RI, or if the value calculated for "[H] Required Opening Diameter" is larger than the largest reinforcing ring RI, the reinforcing ring RI may be set to "None."

In addition, when a route RT has multiple beams, the conditions may be determined by determining whether each beam satisfies the conditions. If the conditions are met for all beams on the route RT, the target route RT is determined to be a "possible" route RT. In this way, in a route RT that passes through multiple beams, if there is even one beam that does not satisfy the conditions, the target route RT is often a route RT that cannot satisfy the conditions of laws and regulations, etc. Therefore, in a route RT with multiple beams, once the conditions are determined for each beam, it is possible to easily determine the calculation results, such as the location where a penetrating object can pass through a beam determined based on regulations, or whether it is possible to pass a penetrating object through a beam, even if there are multiple beams.

Furthermore, the determination of whether the conditions are satisfied is not limited to the longitudinal direction. That is, for example, the determination may also be made in the height direction. For example, the height direction is determined based on the following conditions (hereinafter referred to as "height direction conditions").

(Beam top height - ring width > sleeve top height) and (beam bottom height + ring width < sleeve bottom height)

In calculating the height direction conditions, the "ring width" is calculated as "(outer diameter of reinforcing ring - inner diameter of reinforcing ring) / 2." If there is no reinforcing ring, the "ring width" is calculated as "0."

In addition, the locations of penetrating objects that satisfy the conditions may be extracted, and a route generated by combining "possible" penetrating object locations may be displayed.

Furthermore, if there are multiple routes consisting of penetrating object positions that satisfy the conditions, the optimal route from among the multiple routes may be extracted or highlighted. For example, if there are routes that satisfy multiple conditions, the change in height for each route is calculated. In this way, the degree of change in height for each route is calculated.

In particular, if the penetrating object is a pipe that allows moisture to pass through, it is desirable for the route to have minimal changes in height. If there are changes in height in a pipe that allows moisture to pass through, it is easy for areas where moisture can stagnate inside the pipe. Therefore, it is desirable to install the penetrating object in a route that has the least changes in height, in other words, one that does not bend the penetrating object as much as possible. Therefore, if an optimal route with the fewest bends can be extracted, the design will be easier.

<Modification of the Fourth Embodiment>
Note that the rule may be set with a value different from the value defined by the law, etc. For example, the rule may be set with a value defined by an in-house rule, etc., which is set with a value stricter than the law, etc.

The diameter of the hanging bolt may also be calculated based on the type of object, the weight of the object, or a combination of these.

Note that a position determined to be a seam does not necessarily have to be exactly aligned with the seam. In other words, a certain range may be set for the position determined to be a seam. For example, a position within a certain distance to the left or right of the seam position may be determined to be a seam.

Furthermore, the determination of the seam (step S44) and the determination of the joint (step S45) do not have to be performed in the order described above. For example, the determination of the seam and the joint may be performed in the reverse order from the example described above. Furthermore, the determination of the seam and the joint may be performed in parallel.

Note that objects that have been modified so that a support member cannot be installed (such as an elbow JNT1) may be highlighted on the screen. For example, objects that have been modified so that a support member cannot be installed, i.e., objects for which no support member is installed, may be highlighted by being colored in a different color from other objects. Other highlighting methods may include enlargement, pop-up, flashing, or a message. Highlighting in this way can reduce the number of objects for which a support member has been forgotten to be installed.

The object to be connected may be, for example, a damper, a VAV (Variable Air Volume), or a CAV (Constant Air Volume). Any object that is required by law or regulation to have a support member installed may also be subject to modification.

Alternatively, changes may be made as follows:

Figure 75 shows a second modification of the first example, where a seam is determined. As with Figure 60, this example explains the case where the third position P3 identified based on the second position P2 is a seam.

The installation position is changed from the third position P3 to the fourth position P4. Hereinafter, the position after the change will be referred to as the "changed position." In this example, the changed position is the fourth position P4.

The fourth position P4 is an example of the end portion, and is a position "c" away from the third position P3.

"c" is the dimension value set, for example, in "(3) Dimension from End" in the placement position setting unit SETC. By being able to set the change position in this way, support members can be placed at intervals other than those specified by the rule, allowing support members to be installed near the end. In other words, the end can be supported by the support members.

The fifth position P5 is specified, for example, as a distance relative to the fourth position P4, or as a position "c" away from the end (but in the opposite direction from the fourth position P4).

Alternatively, changes may be made as follows:

Figure 76 shows a third modification of the first example, where a seam is determined. As with Figure 60, this example explains the case where the third position P3 identified based on the second position P2 is a seam.

The installation position is changed from the third position P3 to a position spaced a distance "d" from the second position P2.

"d" is the dimension value set, for example, in "(4) Minimum insert spacing" in the placement position setting unit SETC. Hereinafter, the minimum value spacing will be referred to as "minimum spacing." In other words, the minimum spacing is the spacing of the value entered in "(4) Minimum insert spacing," which in this example is "d." In this way, by placing support members at the minimum spacing, it is possible to place the support members while avoiding seams, etc.

The following cases may also be considered seams:

Figure 77 shows a second example of a location that is determined to be a seam. For example, the location where the fourth object TAG4, which is to be removed, is connected to the third object TAG3, which is a straight pipe (hereinafter referred to as the "removal portion CN") is determined to be a seam.

The following explanation will use an example in which the seventh position P7 is used as the reference and the eighth position P8 is identified as the installation position based on the rule-based spacing.

In this example, the eighth position P8 is in the area of the removal section CN, and is therefore determined to be a seam. In other words, the eighth position P8 is subject to change, and the placement of support members is avoided in the area of the removal section CN. In this way, positions other than branching positions where removal is taking place are also determined to be subject to change. The change is then performed, for example, as follows:

Figure 78 shows a modification of the second example, which is determined to be a seam. For example, the installation position is changed to the ninth position P9, which avoids the removal section CN, as shown.

The ninth position P9 is, for example, a position that can be placed at the end of the fourth object TAG4, such as the position closest to the end. Furthermore, the ninth position P9 may be a position that is specified by the dimension value set in "(2) Spacing at curved portions" in the placement position setting unit SETC, based on the center of the third object TAG3.

In this way, by being able to position the support member while avoiding removal sections, etc., it is possible to position the support member while avoiding positions where it would be difficult to position the support member.

In addition, the following cases may be considered to be seams:

Figure 79 shows a third example of a location that is determined to be a seam. For example, the location where the fifth object TAG5, which is being removed from the third object TAG3, is connected (hereinafter referred to as the "removal point CN") is determined to be a seam. This example shows the case where a round duct is removed from a square duct.

The following explanation will use an example in which the 11th position P11 is identified as the installation position when the 10th position P10 is used as the reference and the spacing is based on the rules.

In this example, the 11th position P11 is in the area of the removal section CN, and is therefore determined to be a seam. In other words, the 11th position P11 is subject to change, and the placement of support members is avoided in the area of the removal section CN. In this way, positions other than branching positions where removal is taking place are also determined to be subject to change. The change is then performed, for example, as follows:

Figure 80 shows a modification of the third example, which is determined to be a seam. For example, the installation position is changed to a twelfth position P12, which avoids the removal section CN, as shown.

The twelfth position P12 is, for example, a position that can be placed at the end of the fifth object TAG5, such as the position closest to the end. Furthermore, the twelfth position P12 may be a position that is specified by the dimension value set in "(2) Spacing at curved portions" in the placement position setting unit SETC, using the center of the third object TAG3 as the reference. Therefore, in this example, the installation position is changed to a position "e" away from the center of the third object TAG3.

In this way, by being able to position the support member while avoiding removal sections, etc., it is possible to position the support member while avoiding positions where it would be difficult to position the support member.

Furthermore, changes may be made in the following cases:

Figure 81 is a diagram showing an example of placing parts. For example, as shown, changes may be made when connecting a pipe to the sixth object TAG6, which is a part. For example, the installation position may be changed as follows:

Figure 82 shows an example of a change when placing a part. For example, the installation position is changed to a position such as the 14th position P14, which avoids seams, as shown in the figure. In other words, at positions where parts are connected, the installation position is changed in the same way as at the end of the object.

For example, the system recognizes when a part is being placed, or the connection between a pipe and a part, and changes the installation position to the new position.

The 14th position P14 is, for example, the position that can be placed at the end of the pipe and is closest to the end. The 14th position P14 may also be a position specified by the dimension value set in "(3) Dimension from end" in the placement position setting unit SETC, based on the 13th position P13, which is the end.

Even when parts are placed in this way by connecting them to the joints, the support members can be placed in the same way as at the end.

It is also possible to configure the system so that the location where the support member is to be installed relative to the joint (hereinafter referred to as the "support member installation location") can be input in advance. For example, the installation location can be changed as follows:

Figure 83 shows an example of a modification that utilizes the support member installation location. The following explains an example using the same elbow JNT1 as in Figure 62.

In this example, the 21st position P21 is the support member installation location. That is, the location of the 21st position P21 is input in advance based on the specifications of the elbow JNT1. For example, the elbow JNT1 may be equipped with metal fittings for installing the support member. In such cases, the support member is installed using the metal fittings. Therefore, the installation position is changed from the installation position determined by the interval based on the rules to the support member installation location determined by the position of the metal fittings.

In this way, by changing the installation position of the support member, the support member can be automatically installed at the joint, and unnecessary installation of support members can be prevented.

Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the support member installation location is used as the starting point, i.e., the changed installation position is used as the reference point, and surrounding installation positions, such as the 22nd position P22 and the 23rd position P23, are identified. This makes it possible to prevent the installation of unnecessary support members.

The following types of joints may also be subject to modification:

Figure 84 shows a first modified example that is considered a joint. For example, the reducer JNT2 shown in the figure may be subject to modification. As shown in the figure, the width of the reducer JNT2 changes. Specifically, the width of the reducer JNT2 is smaller on the right side of the figure than on the left side. The installation position for such a joint can be modified, for example, as follows:

The following describes an example in which the 102nd position P102 is identified as the installation position when the 101st position P101 is used as the reference and the interval is based on the rule. For example, the 102nd position P102 is changed as follows:

Figure 85 shows an example of a modification to the first modified example, which is determined to be a joint. For example, the installation position is changed to position 103 P103 and position 104 P104. In this way, the change is made to avoid reducer JNT2.

When a joint whose width changes, such as the reducer JNT2, is supported by a support member, the support member is prone to slipping. For this reason, the support member is installed to avoid the reducer JNT2. Therefore, by making the above changes, the support member can be installed to avoid the joint whose width changes.

The following types of joints may also be subject to modification:

Figure 86 shows a second modified example that is considered a joint. For example, the conversion duct JNT3 shown in the figure may be subject to modification. As shown, the conversion duct JNT3 varies in width. The conversion duct JNT3 is also installed when switching between a rectangular duct and a round duct. The installation position for such a joint can be changed, for example, as follows:

The following describes an example in which the 106th position P106 is identified as the installation position when the 105th position P105 is used as the reference and the interval is based on the rules. For example, the 106th position P106 is changed as follows:

Figure 87 shows an example of a modification to the second modified example, which is considered a joint. For example, the installation position is changed to the 107th position P107. In this way, the change is made to avoid the conversion duct JNT3.

When a joint whose width changes, such as the conversion duct JNT3, is supported by a support member, the support member is likely to slip. Therefore, the support member is installed to avoid the conversion duct JNT3. Therefore, by making the above changes, the support member can be installed to avoid the joint whose width changes.

Also, when connecting two types of objects, the stricter rule for spacing (indicated by an "x" in the diagram) applies.

Different objects may be connected by seams or joints. Different objects may have different rules. When different rules exist, the installation position near the seams or joints will be changed based on the strictest rule (the rule with the shortest intervals) of the multiple rules.

In this example, the type of object changes at the boundary of conversion duct JNT3, and therefore the applicable rules may also change. For example, when comparing round and square ducts, the rules for square ducts may be relatively strict. In such cases, it is desirable to apply the rules for square ducts to "x." Furthermore, the rules switch at conversion duct JNT3. In this way, support members can be placed in accordance with rules even when multiple objects are mixed.

The following types of joints may also be subject to modification:

Figure 88 shows a third modified example that is considered a joint. For example, a joint that branches as shown in the figure (hereinafter referred to as "branch joint JNT4") may be subject to modification. As shown in the figure, branch joint JNT4 varies in width. Specifically, branch joint JNT4 is a branch joint with an intertwined elbow and reducer. The installation position for such a joint can be modified, for example, as follows:

The following describes an example in which the 109th position P109 is identified as the installation position when the 108th position P108 is used as the reference and the interval is based on the rules. For example, the 109th position P109 is changed as follows:

Figure 89 shows an example of a modification to the third modified example, which is determined to be a joint. For example, the installation position is changed to the 111th position P111. In this way, the change is made to avoid the branch joint JNT4.

Joints with variable widths, such as branch joint JNT4, are difficult to support with support members. Therefore, support members are installed to avoid branch joint JNT4.

The 111th position P111 is, for example, the position that can be placed at the end of the pipe and is closest to the end. The 111th position P111 may also be a position that is specified using the 110th position P110, which is the end, as a reference, and is determined by the dimension value (in this example, "y") set in "(1) Dimension from fitting center point" in the placement position setting unit SETC. Therefore, when the above changes are made, the support member can be installed while avoiding fittings whose width changes.

The following types of joints may also be subject to modification:

Figure 90 shows a fourth modified example that is considered a fitting. For example, an elbow with a different width than the straight pipe section as shown in the figure (hereinafter referred to as a "multi-stage elbow JNT5") may be subject to modification. As shown in the figure, the multi-stage elbow JNT5 has a variable width. Specifically, the multi-stage elbow JNT5 is wider than the straight pipe section. The multi-stage elbow JNT5 is a type of elbow. Note that an elbow with a narrower width than the straight pipe section may also be subject to modification. The multi-stage elbow JNT5 is configured so that a component such as a hopper is inserted between it and the straight pipe. The installation position for such a fitting may be modified, for example, as follows:

The following describes an example in which the 114th position P114 is identified as the installation position when the 113th position P113 is used as the reference and the interval is based on the rules. For example, the 114th position P114 is changed as follows:

Figure 91 shows an example of a modification to the fourth modified example, which is considered a joint. For example, the installation position is changed to the 116th position P116. In this way, the modification is made to avoid the multi-stage elbow JNT5.

Joints with variable widths, such as the multi-stage elbow JNT5, are difficult to support with support members. Therefore, support members are installed to avoid the multi-stage elbow JNT5.

The 116th position P116 may be, for example, a position specified by the dimension value (in this example, "e") set in "(2) Spacing at bends" in the placement position setting unit SETC, based on the 115th position P115 (in this example, the 115th position P115 is one end of the multi-stage elbow JNT5). Therefore, when the above changes are made, the support member can be installed while avoiding joints with varying widths.

<Modification of the Fifth Embodiment>
The determination of the first condition (step S53) and the determination of the second condition (step S54) do not have to be made in the order described above. For example, the determination of the first condition and the determination of the second condition may be made in the reverse order of the example described above. Furthermore, the determination of the first condition and the determination of the second condition may be made in parallel. Similarly, the order in which the conditions are input does not have to be the order shown in the example described above.

The installation position of the support member or bundled support member may be changeable by user UR operation. For example, changes by user UR operation are made as follows:

Figure 92 shows an example of changing the installation position through user operation. For example, when the radio button in the user operation instruction section CD53 is turned "ON," the design device accepts an operation to change the installation position as follows:

Figure 93 shows an example of input for changing the installation position. The following explanation uses the second section AP2 as an example. For example, after turning the radio button of the user operation instruction unit CD53 to "ON," an operation is performed to point to the second section AP2. When such an operation is performed, an operation to change the 604th position P604, the 605th position P605, and the 606th position P606 included in the second section AP2 is accepted.

Next, when the 606th position P606 is clicked, an operation to change the position of the 606th position P606 is accepted. For example, as shown in the figure, an operation to change the 606th position P606 in the left-right direction in the figure (an example of changing along the target object) (hereinafter referred to as the "change operation") is accepted. Hereinafter, the installation position after being changed by the change operation is referred to as the "post-operation installation position."

When the design device accepts a change operation, it re-determines the installation position according to the intervals determined by the rules, using the post-operation installation position as the base. Specifically, the design device re-determines the installation position as follows:

Figure 94 shows an example of determining the installation position based on the post-operation installation position. As shown in the figure, the 606th position P606 is changed by a change operation to become the post-operation installation position.

In this example, the post-operation installation position of position 606 P606 is used as the reference, and other installation positions are re-specified at intervals of "6 m" or "9 m" based on the rules. In this way, even if a change operation is performed, the other installation positions are also re-specified in conjunction with the post-operation installation position. In this way, when the installation position is re-specified in conjunction with the change operation, it is easy to change the installation position.

The support member or collective support member may also be modified as follows:

Figure 95 shows an example of double-end support. For example, when the radio button for the double-end support operation unit CD54 is turned "ON," the design device first accepts the double-end support setting using the end input unit CD55 and the number of support members input unit CD56 to support the object at both ends.

The end input section CD55 is a value indicating the distance from the end of a specified section set for double-end support to the support member located closest to the end.

The support member number input section CD56 is a value that indicates the number of support members or collective support members placed in a specified section set for double-end support.

For example, the following changes are made based on the settings entered in the end input section CD55 and the number of support members input section CD56.

Figure 96 shows an example in which the double-end support setting is reflected. Below, we will explain an example in which the specified section set for double-end support is the second section AP2.

The value entered into the edge input section CD55 is reflected in the distance from the edge to the support member located closest to the edge (hereinafter referred to as "edge distance DS51"). Specifically, edge distance DS51 is the distance from the edge of the second section AP2 to position 701 P701 and position 703 P703, which are the installation positions of the support members located closest to the edge. Note that edge distance DS51 is the same at the left and right edges.

The support member number input section CD56 reflects the number of support members to be placed in the second section AP2. For example, if "3" is set in the support member number input section CD56, three installation positions are identified, as shown in the figure: position 701 P701, position 702 P702, and position 703 P703.

Furthermore, the spacing between the support members, i.e., in this example, the support member spacing DS52, is uniform.

By changing to double-end support as described above, an object can easily be modified to be supported at both ends. Supporting an object at both ends reduces the maximum deflection and maximum bending moment compared to when supported by a simple beam.

When the system is changed to double-end support, a check is made to see if the spacing in a specified section is narrower than the spacing stipulated by the rules. For example, the check results are displayed as follows:

Figure 97 shows an example of the first spacing check result. For example, the spacing check results are displayed as "0.5 m" and "6.75 m." Assume that the rule stipulates that the spacing must be "6.0 m or less." In this case, if there is a spacing wider than the specified spacing (hereinafter referred to as a "wide spacing"), such as "6.75 m," a warning display AL51 is displayed. The warning display AL51 may be displayed in the form of a flashing message or other form of emphasis. In other words, this example shows the result of extracting the spacing between the 701st position P701 and the 702nd position P702, and the spacing between the 702nd position P702 and the 703rd position P703 as wide spacings. This extraction allows for efficient detection of spacings wider than the specified spacing. If such wide spacings exist, the support member number input section CD56 is modified, for example, as follows:

Figure 98 shows an example of the results of the second spacing check. Compared to Figure 97, the difference is that the number of grouping support members has been changed from "3" to "4." Therefore, in this example, four installation positions are identified: position 701 P701, position 702 P702, position 703 P703, and position 704 P704.

Then, each spacing is changed evenly. Therefore, it is changed to "4.5m." Therefore, the check result is normal display AL52. Normal display AL52 indicates that the spacing is within the specified spacing. When extracted in this way, it is easy to make changes so that there are no spacings wider than the specified spacing.

Furthermore, if a wide spacing is detected, a support member or a grouping support member is added at the intermediate position of the support members. For example, a support member or a grouping support member is added as follows:

Figure 99 shows an example of adding to an intermediate position. The following explanation uses an example where the specified distance is "6 m." For example, each distance is checked, and the distance between the 801st position P801 and the 802nd position P802 (hereinafter referred to as the "53rd distance DS53") is "7.0 m," which is extracted as a wide distance.

In this example, position 803 P803 is added as an installation position at the midpoint between position 801 P801 and position 802 P802, i.e., 3.5 m (calculated as 7.0 m divided by 2) from position 802 P802. In this way, adding a support member or a grouping support member at an intermediate position can eliminate the wide spacing and ensure spacing that complies with regulations.

[Other embodiments]
Note that multiple programs may be pre-installed in the design device to realize each function. That is, each process in the installation support method described above may be realized by a single program, or may be realized by a combination of multiple programs. Specifically, for example, in the above description, the program that processes the VR display and the program that processes CAD-related data were described separately, but these programs may be integrated, or may be further separated.

Furthermore, messages such as warnings are not limited to the form of speech bubbles described above. For example, the message may be any message that indicates a warning, and may be notified using other GUI, graphics, flashing, color, sound, or a combination of these.

Note that the data format is not limited to the format described above. That is, each piece of data does not have to be in the format shown above. The names of the data do not have to be the names described above. Furthermore, the data structure does not have to be the structure described above. That is, each piece of data may be a collection of multiple pieces of data, or one piece of data may be divided into multiple pieces of data.

In addition, each piece of data may be converted along the way. For example, each piece of data may be imported by referencing a database, or its format may be converted, or it may be converted into a format that can be used by other software.

Note that the design device is not limited to information processing devices such as the PC 11 described above. That is, the design device may have an internal or external computing device, storage device, or control device in addition to the hardware configuration shown in the figure. Also, the design device is not limited to a PC, but may be a server, etc. Furthermore, the design device may be made up of multiple information processing devices connected via a network, etc.

Changes and other operations may also be performed using an external device.

Note that the input device and output device do not have to be a combination of goggles and a pointer device. In other words, the output device may be any device capable of displaying a virtual space, etc., and the input device may be any device capable of inputting operations such as changes. Specifically, the virtual space may be displayed on a display, etc., and operations may be input using a mouse or keyboard, etc.

The virtual space is realized, for example, by VR. Note that in addition to VR, virtual space may also include AR (Augmented Reality) and MR (Mixed Reality).

Note that the icon picture, size, placement, etc. do not have to be as described above. In other words, the icon picture, size, placement, etc. may be set in advance by an administrator, etc.

Embodiments are not limited to the above examples. For example, the number of information processing devices is not limited to the above. Furthermore, the types and combinations of information processing devices do not have to be the above configurations.

Embodiments are not limited to the above processes. For example, the information processing method according to the present invention may be performed in an order other than that described above. Furthermore, the information processing method may be executed by multiple information processing devices. In other words, each step in the information processing method may be executed in a redundant, distributed, parallel, virtualized, or combination thereof.

The embodiments may be realized by a program. That is, a computer such as an information processing device may control an arithmetic unit and a storage device based on the program to execute the above-described information processing method. The program may also be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium and distributed. The recording medium may be a medium such as a magnetic tape, flash memory, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, the program may be distributed via a telecommunications line.

The present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the above embodiments, and may be combined with other elements. These aspects may be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and may be determined appropriately depending on the application form.

10 Design system 11 PC
12 Goggles 13 Pointer device 10F1 Beam data input means 10F2 Penetrating object data input means 10F3 Calculation means 10F4 Calculation result data generation means 10F5 Display means D01 Design data D02 Construction data D03 Operation data D04 Library data D05 Price list data D06 Specification data D07 Equipment data D08 Attribute information data D09 Cost data D10 Document data D11 Skeleton data D12 Table data D13 CAD data D14 Technical review data D15 Construction plan data D16 Construction management data D17 Change data D18 Calculation result data D19 Placement data D20 Beam data D21 Penetrating object data UR User PL, PI Piping B1 First beam B2 Second beam B3 Third beam B4 Fourth beam B5 Fifth beam EN1 First passable range EN11 Eleventh passable range EN12 Twelfth passable range EN13 Thirteenth passable range EN14 Fourteenth passable range EN2 Second passable range EN21 First effective range EN22 Second effective range OUT1 Penetrating object mark OUT2 Error display PTN1 First pattern PTN2 Second pattern C1 First color C2 Second color C3 Third color RG Installation range SET Dialog 2P1, 2P2, 2P3, 2P4, 2P5, 2P6, 2P7, 2P8, 2P9, 2P10, 2P11 Earthquake-resistant support members V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, V7, V8, V9, V10, V11, V12, V13 Interval display 10F21 Specific installation object data input means 10F22 Penetrating object position input means 10F23 Determination means 10F40 Support member data input means 10F41 Installation position identification means 10F42 Change means 10F51 First condition input means 10F52 Second condition input means 10F53 First judgment means 10F54 Second judgment means 10F55 Replacement means AL51 Warning display AL52 Normal display AP1 First section AP2 Second section AP3 Third section AP4 Fourth section AP5 Fifth section CD51 First condition input section CD52 Second condition input section CD53 User operation instruction section CD54 Both end support operation section CD55 End input section CD56 Number of support members input section CK Support input section CN Extraction section JD Joint setting section JNT1 Elbow JNT2 Reducer JNT3 Conversion duct JNT4 Branch joint JNT5 Multi-stage elbow JT Joint RI Reinforcement ring RT Route SB Sub-beam SLE Sleeve TAG1 First object TAG2 Second object TAG3 Third object TAG4 Fourth object TAG5 Fifth object TAG6 Sixth object TAG51 Fifty-first pipe TAG52 Fifty-second pipe TAG53 Fifty-third pipe

Claims (14)

A design device for supporting installation of an object through which an object passes in a building in which the object is installed, comprising:
a cross-sectional view of the object showing a passable range through which the object can pass;
A cross-sectional view of the passing object showing the outer diameter and the required opening diameter;
in different areas of the same screen ;
Including,
The cross-sectional view of the object and the cross-sectional view of the passing object are cross-sectional views seen from different directions.
Design equipment. The display means illustrates the passing objects located at the upper limit position and the lower limit position of the passable range,
The design device according to claim 1 . The display means illustrates a range in which the center position of the passing object in the passable range can be adapted.
The design device according to claim 2 . The display means displays the object with the refractory coating thickness indicated, and the passing object with the voids and insulation thickness indicated.
The design device according to claim 2 or 3. The display means further illustrates the passing object with its outer diameter indicated.
The design device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The display means illustrates the passing material, further indicating the gap, insulation thickness, and required opening diameter;
The required opening diameter includes at least the gap and the heat-retaining thickness.
The design device according to claim 5 . the display means displays the type, purpose, and diameter of the passing object in a selectable manner.
The design device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The display means displays an image of the passing object with an outer diameter and insulation thickness calculated based on the use and diameter of the passing object selected by the display means.
The design device according to claim 7. the display means displays the type of the object and the type of the coating in a selectable manner.
The design device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. the object is a beam,
the display means displays steel, reinforced concrete, and steel-reinforced concrete as selectable types of the beam;
When the reinforced concrete or the steel-reinforced concrete is selected, the type of coating cannot be selected.
The design device according to claim 9. A design device for supporting installation of an object through which an object passes in a building in which the object is installed, comprising:
a first display unit that displays a cross-sectional view of the object showing a passable range in which the passing object can pass relative to the object;
a second display unit that selectably displays the type, purpose, and diameter of the passing object;
a third display unit that displays a cross-sectional view of the passing object, showing the outer diameter and the required opening diameter ;
a fourth display unit that displays the type of the object and the type of the coating in a selectable manner;
in different areas of the same screen;
Including,
The cross-sectional view of the object and the cross-sectional view of the passing object are cross-sectional views seen from different directions.
Design equipment. A design system having a design device that supports installation of an object through which an object passes in a building in which the object is installed,
The design device
a cross-sectional view of the object showing a passable range through which the object can pass;
A cross-sectional view of the passing object showing the outer diameter and the required opening diameter;
in different areas of the same screen ;
Including,
The cross-sectional view of the object and the cross-sectional view of the passing object are cross-sectional views seen from different directions.
Design system. An installation support method performed by a design device that supports installation of an object through which an object passes in a building in which the object is to be installed, comprising:
a cross-sectional view of the object showing a passable range through which the design device can pass the object;
A cross-sectional view of the passing object showing the outer diameter and the required opening diameter;
a display procedure for displaying the images in different areas of the same screen ;
Including,
The cross-sectional view of the object and the cross-sectional view of the passing object are cross-sectional views seen from different directions.
Installation support method. A program for executing the installation support method described in claim 13.