Model-based computer-aided design environment for operational design

To meet the increasing market challenges in chemical industry, it is imperative to improve process design and the supportive computer-aided engineering tools so that they can support lifecycle activities. This research work proposes detailed mechanism of operational design approach on the basis of operational design modeling methodology where lifecycle activities are considered during design stage. Computer-aided design environment called CAPE-CAD is proposed, which supports operational design approach. CAPE-CAD encompasses a friendly user interface to capture and maintain plant topology and to link process behaviors and plant operations with corresponding plant structure units. The proposed design environment can be used during design and operation stages, as well as for operator training. Case study of chemical process is used to explain the proposed solution.