A newly released Pipeline Data Management Extension (PDME) for Redlands, Calif.-based ESRI's ArcGIS is available to the industry. ArcGIS is a scalable system of software for geographic data.
Suited as an interface for the transmission segment, PDME enables pipeline operators to combine the core functionality of ArcGIS with the industry-specific capabilities of this firm's pipeline analysis and reporting software.
Based upon the recent release of the ArcGIS Pipeline Data Model, the PDME interface gives users the tools to view, analyze, edit, and develop reports from pipeline spatial and attribute data stored in a single-source repository or geodatabase.
In addition, operators are able to use familiar pipeline-specific semantics and nomenclature for database queries and other basic functions.
PDME establishes rules and relationships that allow operators to store pipeline spatial data (imagery, graphics, and vectors) and attribute data together in a centralized geodatabase rather than in separate linked systems.
PDME also allows operators to access the stored data through the functions of ArcGIS, including multiuser editing, wizard-driven menus, and high-quality map graphics.
Built upon ESRI's ArcObjects, PDME can be expanded with out-of-the-box tools to model a company's specific data needs.
PDME is designed as a desktop interface to ArcGIS and to this firm's high-end pipeline applications.
With PDME, operators are able to manage the data structure, adding features, removing features, posing queries, and generating reports, and to perform the pipeline-specific tasks of alignment sheet generation, class location analysis, and high consequence area calculation.
Source: James W. Sewall Co., Box 433, Old Town, ME 04468.
Monitor offers voice notification feature
The Bullhorn family of remote wireless monitoring products now offers a voice notification feature that alerts users when a preprogrammed alarm condition has occurred.
Bullhorn is a wireless remote monitoring solution that lets you configure alarms, control equipment, and receive data through this firm's secure web site without having to manage any of the technical aspects of the system.
The system uses the MicroBurst wireless network from Aeris.net to transfer information from remote equipment to a central database. In seconds, data packets are transferred from the Bullhorn unit over the cellular network to the Aeris.net operating center and on to the secure web site where packets are decoded and the data are posted for customers to view or to download.
The voice notification feature is simple to implement. After a quick configuration, data packets travel from the Bullhorn device to the server, where the system checks to see if any alarm conditions are met. If the alarm has been configured to trigger a voice notification, it is then immediately sent to up to five cell phone numbers. The message includes a brief introduction, the unit ID number, and-or name and notification text, and is repeated three times.
The system will call all numbers in a specified order until the notification is acknowledged by simply pressing 9. If the user has specified that an email message be sent if the calls are not acknowledged, then it will be delivered after all calls have been attempted. The system will make as many as 15 calls before sending an email. The pattern and number of calls depends on how the user wishes to configure the system.
Bullhorn units can be set to report by exception when under alarm conditions or at preconfigured health check intervals. Automatic alarm notifications are also sent via fax, page, and-or email. Alarms can be configured in a variety of ways, and advanced alarming capabilities, which eliminate false alarms, are standard in the product.
Source: American Innovations, 12112 Technology Blvd., Suite 100, Austin, TX 78727.
