A personal computer based design system for profiling overhead lines

An efficient personal computer-based tool is presented for the mechanical dimensioning of overhead distribution lines. The design system includes routines for calculating the strengths of poles and conductors, calculating the sag curves, dimensioning the poles, cross-arms and stays and for the scaled graphical output of ground and line profiles. The design method also includes a simple heuristic optimisation algorithm for minimising the heights of poles within the safety and technical constraints. The programs are interactive and are equipped with graphic facilities. The experience of using the design method in practical design work has been very positive. Savings have been made both in the costs of building the line and in the time required for the design process compared with manual methods