Autodesk Topobase Electric User Guide

Autodesk® Topobase™ Electric User Guide

Autodesk® Topobase™

Electric User Guide

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Contents

Chapter 1 Autodesk Topobase Electric User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1About This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Using Topobase Electric NA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1About Topobase Electric NA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Understanding Topobase Electric NA Topologies . . . . . . . . . . 3

Electrical Topology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Connectivity Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Flow Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Using the Topobase Electric Explorer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Creating Topobase Electric Explorer Profiles . . . . . . . . . . 7Customizing the Topobase Electric Explorer . . . . . . . . . . 7Populating the Topobase Electric Explorer . . . . . . . . . . . 9Viewing Related Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Managing Topobase Electric NA Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Creating a New Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Associating the First Breaker with the Circuit . . . . . . . . 12

Creating an Underground Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Creating Ducts and Conductors Automatically . . . . . . . 15

Creating an Overhead Distribution Network . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Creating an Overhead Transmission Network . . . . . . . . . . . 17Understanding Topobase Electric NA Cross Sections . . . . . . . . 18

Topobase Electric NA Cross Section Templates . . . . . . . . 19Topobase Electric NA Cross Section Snap Points . . . . . . . 20

iii

Segment, Duct, Pole, and Tower Models . . . . . . . . . . . 21Creating a Segment Cross Section Template in Topobase

Electric NA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Using a Topobase Electric NA Segment Cross Section

Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Creating a Duct Template in Topobase Electric NA . . . . . . 25Defining a Node Cross Section Template in Topobase

Electric NA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Using a Node Standard Cross Section Template . . . . . . . 29Using Extended Cross Section Templates . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Creating Maintenance and Observation Records in TopobaseElectric NA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Creating Topobase Electric NA Maintenance Records . . . . 32Creating Topobase Electric NA Observation Records . . . . . 32

Using Topobase Electric NA Workflows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Starting Workflows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Finding Connected Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Finding Open Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Computing Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Reconfiguring Circuit and Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Reconfiguring Phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Transferring Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Tracing Templates for Workflows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Creating Station Internal Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Setting Topobase Electric NA Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Using Topobase Electric NA Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Understand and Work with the Topobase Electric NA Data

Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Exploring the Topobase Electric NA Data Model . . . . . . . 43Administration Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Circuit Feature Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Complex Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Conductor Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Construct Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Device Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Dimension Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Event Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55Miscellaneous Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Structural Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Template Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Using Topobase Electric CE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63About Topobase Electric CE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Understanding Topobase Electric CE Topologies . . . . . . . . . 64

Electrical Topology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Connectivity Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

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Using the Topobase Electric Explorer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Creating Electric Explorer Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Customizing the Electric Explorer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Populating the Topobase Electric Explorer . . . . . . . . . . 68Viewing Related Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Creating an Underground Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70Creating Ducts and Conductors Automatically . . . . . . . 72

Understanding Topobase Electric CE Cross Sections . . . . . . . . 73Topobase Electric CE Cross Section Templates . . . . . . . . 74Topobase Electric CE Cross Section Snap Points . . . . . . . 75Segment and Duct Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Creating a Cross Section Template in Topobase Electric

CE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Creating a Duct Template in Topobase Electric CE . . . . . . 79Extending a Topobase Electric CE Cross Section

Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Adding a Cross Section to a Segment in Topobase Electric

CE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Creating Maintenance and Observation Records in Topobase

Electric CE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Creating Topobase Electric CE Maintenance Records . . . . 81Creating Topobase Electric CE Observation Records . . . . . 82

Using Topobase Electric CE Workflows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82Finding Connected Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82Finding Feeders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Finding Fed Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Finding Open Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86Creating a House Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Creating Station Internal Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Using Multi Conductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Offsetting Multi Conductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Merging Multi Conductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Extending Multi Conductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Labelling Multi Conductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Creating Duct Areas for Multi Conductors . . . . . . . . . . 94Creating a Standalone Conductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Setting Topobase Electric CE Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Understand and Work with the Topobase Electric CE Data

Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98Exploring the Topobase Electric CE Data Model . . . . . . . 99Administration Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Circuit Feature Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Conductor Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Construct Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Cross Section Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Device Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Contents | v

Dimension Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Event Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Miscellaneous Feature Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112Structural Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113Template Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116Utility Feature Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

vi | Contents

Autodesk TopobaseElectric User Guide

About This GuideThis guide provides documentation for both Topobase Electric North America(NA) and Topobase Electric Central Europe (CE). Please refer to the appropriatesection for your region.

■ For Topobase Electric NA, see Using Topobase Electric NA (page 1).

■ For Topobase Electric CE, see Using Topobase Electric CE (page 63).

Using Topobase Electric NA

IntroductionUse Autodesk® Topobase™ Electric NA to manage and analyze electricdistribution and transmission networks. You can manage both undergroundand overhead electric infrastructure.

The data model delivered with Topobase Electric is usually customized to meetcustomer or project requirements in different countries and regions. Thiscustomization impacts feature class form layout, additional functions, thecontent of domains, and available reports. This guide describes basicfunctionality, not specific customizations.

1

1

About Topobase Electric NATopobase Electric uses two separate networks for electrical and structuralelements. Structural elements include segments (trenches), ducts, poles, andtowers. Electrical elements include conductors and devices such as breakersand switches. Segments contain ducts which in turn contain conductors.

The structural network stores the connectivity of structures while the electricalnetwork stores the connectivity of electrical elements. The two networks arerelated. For example, conductors are placed in segments and devices orconductors are assigned to structures.

The electrical and structural networks are logical topologies, meaning thatthey support and manage connections between features that are not necessarilyspatially connected. Using a logical topology, you can connect two pointfeatures, such as electric devices. The connectivity and flow information ofthe features is stored in the topology tables EL_ELECTRIC_CONN (for electricnetworks) and EL_STRUCTURAL_CONN (for structural networks). We stronglyrecommend that you do not modify these tables.

Topobase Electric uses cross sections to visualize the contents of a segment orthe configuration of conductors on a pole or tower. For example, a segmentcross section shows ducts and conductors that run in the segment. Use crosssections in distribution networks to view and position ducts and conductorsin segments. Use cross sections in transmission networks to view and positionconductors on poles or towers. For transmission networks, the cross sectionis the view of a pole or tower looking down from the sky. Topobase providesan extended cross section for the elevation view (looking north or east).

Electric devices and conductors are grouped as circuits. Each device orconductor stores the relation to a circuit using the CIRCUIT (FID_Circuit)attribute. Circuits are managed by workflows, feature rules, and topologyfunctions.

Topobase Electric NA manages phase for devices and conductors. The PHASE(FID_Phase) attribute stores the phase for each device or conductor. Phasesare managed by a workflow, feature rules, and topology functions. For example,the phase is updated whenever a new element is added to the electricalnetwork. Also, use the workflow Reconfigure Phase to trace the electricalnetwork and to modify the phase value. For more information, seeReconfiguring Phase (page 36).

2 | Chapter 1 Autodesk Topobase Electric User Guide

Understanding Topobase Electric NA TopologiesThe Topobase Electric NA data model contains the following two topologies:

■ Structural topology—Segments, poles, and other structural features buildthe structural network.

■ Electrical topology—Conductors and devices build the electrical network.

The Topobase Electric networks are logical topologies which means thatfeatures are connected without requiring a spatial relationship.

The logical topologies are defined in the Data Model Administrator. Use theData Model Administrator to view the settings including tracing templates.

Although the electrical and structural networks are administered separately,the electrical and structural objects are related. For example, in the ElectricExplorer, you can select a segment (structure) and show all conductors (electric)that lie within.

Electrical TopologyThe Electric topology maintains the connectivity between conductors anddevices. Topobase Electric uses a logical topology to manage the connectionsbetween electric features. Features are connected without requiring a spatialconnection. Use the Topobase Administrator to configure the topology (whichfeature classes can be connected with which other feature classes). Use theConnectivity manager to manage the connections in Topobase Client orTopobase Web. For more information about logical topologies, see LogicalTopology Introduction.

Understanding Topobase Electric NA Topologies | 3

NOTE Conductors can only be connected to devices, not other conductors. Aconductor must be connected to two devices, one on each end. You can connecttwo devices, for example, a fuse switch to a transformer.

To view or modify Electric topology settings

1 Start Topobase Administrator and open the relevant Topobase Electricworkspace.

2 In the Administrator Explorer, click Data Model.

3 In the Data Model Explorer, expand the Topology node.

In Topobase Electric NA, the electric topology is called ELECTRIC.

4 Right-click the electric topology. Click Properties.

5 In the Logical Topology dialog box, click Feature Classes In The Topologyto view the feature classes that are part of the topology.

6 Click Connectivity Between Feature Classes to view the connectivity.

Connectivity TablesIn Topobase Electric NA, the connection tables are called Structural_CONNand Electric_CONN. These tables store the connectivity information betweenfeatures and the flow direction. Connectivity is established when you initializethe topology. When you digitize new features, the connectivity and flow areupdated. We strongly recommend that you do not modify these tables.

When you insert a group of features using a template, the connectivity forboth spatially connected and nonspatially connected features is stored asdefined in the template.

DescriptionConnectivity Attribute

Specifies a particular feature.FID_FROM

Specifies the connected feature.FID_TO

Specifies the flow direction between aparticular feature (FID_FROM) and theconnected feature (FID_TO).

FLOW

■ 1 = forward

■ 2= backward


■ 3= both

For spatially connected features, when you insert or update a feature, theconnectivity table is maintained automatically. For the electric topology, theinternal topology updater checks consistency of the feature attributesVOLTAGE, PHASE, CIRCUIT. The topology updater does the followingoperations:

■ Defines the flow direction of new features.

■ Sets circuit, phase, and voltage values for new or modified features.For example, when all connected features have the same value, or the valueof the connected features is undefined but at least one feature has a definedvalue. The values are only set if they are not already defined. Stop featuresare ignored.

■ Sets the values of connected features.For example, sets the value of connected features when you define thevalues of a new feature. The value of all connected features is the same ornull.

■ Checks phase, voltage, and circuit.If the connection is not valid, a message is shown.

Understanding Topobase Electric NA Topologies | 5

Flow DefinitionWhen you add a feature, an internal topology updater automatically sets theflow between the new feature and connected features. For example, when youconnect an existing breaker with a new conductor, the flow is set as follows:

■ Case 1—The breaker has an input. This means it has a backwardconnection. The new conductor will be an output which means the breakerwill be connected forwards to the conductor and the new conductor willbe connected backwards to the breaker.

■ Case 2—The breaker has an output but no input. This means that thebreaker has a forward connection. The breaker will be connected backwardto the conductor and the new conductor will be connected as an input,forwards to the breaker.

■ Case 3—The breaker has neither input nor output defined. This means itis not connected to any features or the flow is the default setting of 3(both).If the new conductor has connections to other features, so that it has aninput from these features, the flow is set as an output from the newconductor to the feature.

If the new conductor is connected to one other feature whose flow isdefined, the flow is reversed to the interacting feature.

Using the Topobase Electric ExplorerUse the Electric Explorer to view, build, and maintain electric networks. TheElectric Explorer provides access to many features at one time and can displaythe relationships between features. Each class of features is displayed in a


separate container. The Electric Explorer displays segments, ducts, conductors,devices, and other electric elements and provides functions and workflows tomanage network features.

You can connect segments, ducts, and conductors using drag and drop in theElectric Explorer. This greatly simplifies the process of building your networks.The following procedure describes the process using the example of ducts andsegment. The same process applies to conductors, ducts, and segments.

To connect using drag and drop

1 In the Duct container, select a duct.

2 In the Segment container, select a segment.

3 Drag the selected duct and drop it on the selected segment.

NOTE If you want to spread a duct over more than one segment, you mustpreselect them as described. Otherwise, you can simply drag and drop theduct on the segment.

The duct is placed in the segment at an unassigned (not exactly located)position. If the Segment has no unassigned snap points, a message isdisplayed. Similarly, you can position conductors in ducts and segmentsusing the same process.

Creating Topobase Electric Explorer ProfilesUsing Topobase Administrator you can customize the Electric Explorer bycreating profiles that display only the containers you need. For example, aTransmission profile would contain poles, towers, conductors, and devicesbut not ducts. An Underground profile would contain conductors, ducts, anddevices but not poles or towers. You can make profiles available to differentuser groups. For more information, see Setting Up Electric Explorer Profiles.

To change Electric Explorer profiles

■ Select the profile of interest from the drop-down list in the upper rightcorner of the Electric Explorer.

Customizing the Topobase Electric ExplorerYou can customize the attribute data that is displayed in the feature containers.

Using the Topobase Electric Explorer | 7

To customize the Topobase Electric Explorer

1 From the Electric Explorer tool bar, click Show Document Settings.

2 In the Document Options dialog box, in the left pane, click Electric NAExplorer.

3 Under Electric Explorer Options, click the General tab. Set any of thefollowing options:

DescriptionGeneral Tab Option

Specifies whether a selected feature isautomatically highlighted in the map.

Highlight

Specifies whether the map automaticallyzooms to the selected feature.

Zoom

Specifies the number of features that areshown in the Last Used section of thecontainers.

Last Used Features

Specifies the behavior of the applicationduring feature creation. Select Show Form

Feature Creation

After Create New if you want the form tobe opened after feature creation so youcan specify attributes.When you are creating features acrossmultiple snap points, you can increase thespeed of the process by specifying thedelay between snap points in milliseconds.If you set the value to zero, Topobase dis-plays a zoomed out map with all snappoints highlighted through the last seg-ment. You can create the duct or conduct-or in one click.

4 Click the Feature Containers tab.

5 Under Visibility, specify which containers to display in the ElectricExplorer.

6 Under Attribute Visibility, select a feature.


7 For the selected feature, specify the attributes to make available for editingin the container.

8 Use the arrows to specify the order of the attributes.

Populating the Topobase Electric ExplorerTo work with the Electric Explorer you must select features in the map or filterthe features in the form, and load them into the Electric Explorer. Featuresare loaded into their corresponding containers. You can select a region of themap to populate all the Electric Explorer containers at once, or you canpopulate each container individually.

NOTE When you populate containers by individual feature class, you select anentire region in the map. The selected features are filtered to display just the featureclass desired.

To load a class of features

1 From the Electric Explorer tool bar, click Select Feature From Map.

2 Select a region of interest.

The Electric Explorer containers are populated with the features in theregion you specify.

To populate containers individually

1 In the Segment container, click More ➤ Select From Map. Select one ormore segments in the map. Right-click to finish the selection.

You can also click Select From Trace to perform a trace to populate thecontainer.

2 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Select From Map. Select oneor more conductors in the map. Right-click to finish the selection.


3 In the Duct container, click More ➤ Select From Map. Select a duct thatis displayed in the cross section.



If no cross sections are available, you can select ducts from the Segmentcontainer using Select Child Feature(s). For more information, see ViewingRelated Features (page 10).

To populate a container using a feature class form

1 From the Document Explorer, open the feature class form of interest, forexample, Breaker.

2 Define any filter to select a set of features.

3 On the feature class form toolbar, click Add The Features In This Dialog

To The Electric Explorer.

4 Open the Electric Explorer. The selected features have been loaded intothe appropriate container.

Viewing Related FeaturesUse Select Child and Select Parent to view, locate, and select associated networkfeatures. For example, select a segment and use Select Child Feature(s) to viewall the features within that segment. Alternatively, select a device or conductorand use Select Parent Feature to view the ducts and segments that contain thedevice or conductor.

To select features within a selected feature

■ Right-click a feature in the Electric Explorer. Click Select Child Feature(s).

To select the features that include a selected feature

■ Right-click a feature in the Electric Explorer. Click Select Parent Feature.

Managing Topobase Electric NA CircuitsAll features in a circuit must be associated with the circuit using the CIRCUIT(FID_Circuit) attribute. Flow and phase must be correct throughout the circuit.To assign features to a circuit and to maintain circuit information, you canuse the Reconfigure Circuit and Flow and Reconfigure Phase workflows. Formore information, see Reconfiguring Circuit and Flow (page 36) andReconfiguring Phase (page 36).


If you add new elements to the network or modify existing elements, TopobaseElectric checks for inconsistencies, updates the circuit whenever possible, andenables you to reconfigure the circuit as needed.

■ If you add a new device or conductor to an existing circuit, a feature ruleautomatically updates the Circuit attribute (FID_CIRCUIT).For example, when you add a device by defining a logical connection theconnectivity table is updated, and the circuit information as well.

■ If you edit the FID_CIRCUIT value using a feature class form, the systemdetects inconsistencies and provides a workflow to reconfigure the values.When you edit a device using the Electric Explorer to modify the circuit,you are alerted if the circuit information is not consistent. The Circuit iconat the top of the Electric Explorer are illuminated and the circuit id is listed.Use the Reconfiguration of Circuit and Flow function to update the circuit.

Creating a New CircuitWhen you create an electric network using the Electric Explorer, you mustfirst create the circuit. The circuit is an attribute feature class used to identifyall the associated elements (conductors and devices) in the network.

To create a new circuit

1 In the Topobase task pane, click Document Explorer.

2 In the Document Explorer, open the Circuit topic and right-click theCircuit feature class. Click Show Form.

3 In the Circuit form, click New Record from the toolbar at the bottom ofthe form.

4 Fill out the form with data about the circuit. Click Insert [F5] and thenclose the form.

When you create the first breaker in the circuit, you must associate thebreaker with this circuit using the Circuit (FID_Circuit) attribute in theBreaker form or in the Electric Explorer. You must set the first breaker asthe Device Origin feature in the Circuit form. See Associating the FirstBreaker with the Circuit (page 12).

Managing Topobase Electric NA Circuits | 11

Associating the First Breaker with the CircuitWhen you create the first breaker in the circuit, you must assign the breakerto the circuit. Then, as you create features starting from that breaker, they areautomatically assigned to the circuit.

To associate the breaker with the circuit

1 Select the appropriate electric display model.

2 Click Home tab ➤ Display panel ➤ Generate Graphic.

3 Click Electric Explorer.

4 In the Electric Explorer, in the Devices container, click New ➤ Breaker.

5 Click in the map to position the breaker. Press Enter.

The new breaker is added to the Devices container.

6 Right-click the new breaker in the Devices container. Click Show Form.

7 In the Breaker form, click the Details tab.

8 Locate the Circuit (FID_Circuit) attribute. Select the circuit from the listand close the form.

9 Redisplay the Circuit form and select this new breaker as the DeviceOrigin (FID_Device_Origin).

You can now create all the features in the circuit starting from the breaker.They will be added to the circuit.

Creating an Underground NetworkUse the Electric Explorer to create an underground electric network.Relationships between structural elements (such as manholes and substations)and electric devices (such as breakers and switches) are managed automatically.This procedure creates the network by directing you to place devices and thenconnect them with segments. You can use any process that makes sense to


you. You can order the containers in the Electric Explorer in a logical mannerto support your process.

Before you create the network you must create the circuit. You then assignthe first breaker to that circuit. After that, the system will assign associatedelements to the current circuit. For more information, see Managing TopobaseElectric NA Circuits (page 10). If errors are detected, use the Reconfigure Circuitand Flow workflow to correct them. For more information, see ReconfiguringCircuit and Flow (page 36).

To create an underground network



3 Click Electric Explorer to display the Electric Explorer task pane.

Optionally, select the Underground profile to display feature containersrelevant to creating an underground network.

4 In the Device container, click New ➤ Breaker.

The breaker is a point geometry feature. You are prompted to draw thebreaker in the map.

5 Draw the breaker. Press ENTER to add the breaker.

The new breaker is added to the Device container and is identified witha unique feature identification number (FID).

6 Select the new breaker in the Device container.

You can set some attributes for the breaker using the drop down listsavailable in the Device container. Click in a different row or column tocomplete attribute entry. If the attributes you want to set are not availablein the container, you can add them using Document Options. For moreinformation, see Customizing the Topobase Electric Explorer (page 7).

7 Click More ➤ Show Form.

8 In the Breaker form, locate the Circuit (FID_Circuit) attribute and selectthe circuit for this breaker.

Creating an Underground Network | 13

9 Create any other devices, for example, a transformer and a service pointand then set attributes.

NOTE You can create additional features using the Last Used feature setdisplayed at the bottom of each container. Overflow Last Used features areavailable in a drop down list. You can lock the set of Last Used features topreserve a set you will use regularly. Otherwise the Last Used set is updatedas you add features.

10 Next, create the segment (representing the trench) to connect the breakerto the next device (such as a transformer or service point).

In the Segment container, click New. Draw the segment by clicking onthe breaker and then the next device. Click in a different row or columnto complete the segment. Press ESC to end the command.

11 Specify the model to define the number of ducts in the conductor.

In the Segment container, select the segment and select a model fromthe Model drop-down list.

You can also right-click the Segment in the container. Click Show Form.On the General tab, use the Model drop down to specify the number ofducts in the conductor. Click Update & Close.

The Model setting specifies the type of cross section to use, for example,a 2x2 cross section with four ducts. When you specify the cross sectionmodel to use, a cross section representation of the segment is displayedin the map. The FID Template attribute displays the selected template inthe container.

NOTE The position of the cross section along the segment is defined in thecross section template. For more information on defining cross sections, seeUnderstanding Topobase Electric NA Cross Sections (page 18).

12 Insert a duct in the segment cross section.

In the Duct container, click New ➤ Duct. Click a snap point to positionthe duct.

NOTE If the network contains multiple segments, zoom out, locate the nextcross section, and click to position the duct in the cross section. Repeat foreach segment.

13 Create conductors.


In the Conductor container, click New. Click in the duct. Geometry isgenerated for the conductor for each segment.

14 Select the conductor in the container. Set phase and voltage attributesfor the conductor. Press ENTER.

Feature rules validate the phase and alert you if there is an inconsistentsetting.

NOTE If the Phase button becomes available, a phase setting is inconsistentsomewhere in the network. You must reconfigure the phase to correct theinconsistency. For more information, see Reconfiguring Phase (page 36).

Creating Ducts and Conductors AutomaticallyOnce you have created segments and specified cross section models, you canadd ducts and conductors quickly by selecting the duct or conductor positionin the first segment cross section and in the last segment cross section. Theduct or conductor will be generated along the entire network.

To create ducts and conductors automatically


2 In the Electric Explorer, click Clear All Containers.

3 Click Select Features From Map.

4 Select the segments in your network.

NOTE There must be a structural node between each segment.

5 Specify the Model to define the number of ducts in the conductor.




Each segment must have a model assigned to specify the type of crosssection to use. For more information on defining cross sections, seeUnderstanding Topobase Electric NA Cross Sections (page 18).

6 In the Duct container, click New.

7 In the first segment, click the snap point for the duct.

Snap points in all segments are highlighted.

8 In the last segment, click the snap point for the duct.

The duct is generated along all the segments in the network.

9 Repeat this process to create the conductors automatically.

Creating an Overhead Distribution NetworkUse the Electric Explorer to create an overhead network. When you create anoverhead network, you create conductors directly because there are nosegments or ducts.

Before you create the network you must create the circuit. You then assignthe first breaker to that circuit. After that, the system will assign associatedelements to the current circuit. For more information, see Managing TopobaseElectric NA Circuits (page 10). If errors are detected, use the Reconfigure Circuitand Flow workflow to correct them. For more information, see ReconfiguringCircuit and Flow (page 36).

To create an overhead distribution network

1 Create a new circuit.

For more information, see Managing Topobase Electric NA Circuits (page10).

2 In the Device container, click New ➤ Breaker. Specify the location forthe breaker.

3 In the Conductor container, click New ➤ Linestring Conductor. Digitizethe conductor.

Draw the conductor from the start breaker, through towers or poles, tothe final breaker.


Creating an Overhead Transmission NetworkUse the Electric Explorer to create an overhead transmission network.

To create an overhead transmission network

1 Create a new circuit.

For more information, see Managing Topobase Electric NA Circuits (page10).

2 Optionally, select the Transmission profile to display feature containersrelevant to creating a transmission network.

3 In the Device container, click New ➤ Breaker. Specify the location forthe breaker.

For transmission networks, the breaker must be assigned to a structure,for example a substation.

4 Use the Structure attribute in the Breaker form to create an associationbetween the breaker and the structure.

5 In the Tower container, click New ➤ Tower or create the tower from theDocument Explorer.

6 Position the tower.

7 Specify the tower model to display a cross section.

8 In the Conductor container, click New ➤ Transmission Conductor.

9 Draw the conductor by clicking on snap points in the tower cross section.Start with a breaker. Complete the conductor at the final breaker.

When you digitize a conductor that runs across several towers, segments arecreated automatically between the towers, if not yet existing. For example,you digitize a conductor that runs from a breaker across several towers to thefinal breaker. Then, when you digitize a second conductor that runs acrossthe same towers, the system will propose snap points that follow the previouslycreated conductor. You do not have to click all the snap points again. Instead,click the final breaker to accept the proposed snap points.

Creating an Overhead Transmission Network | 17

Understanding Topobase Electric NA Cross SectionsCross sections simplify the management of the relationships between segments,ducts, and conductors during data acquisition. Cross sections provide a crosssectional view of the following electrical elements:

■ Segments—A segment cross section shows the ducts and conductors thatlie in the underground network segment. You can edit the conductors andducts in the cross section. For example, you can place or remove ducts inthe segment, and you can place or remove conductors in a duct.

■ Poles and Towers—A pole or a tower cross section shows the conductorsassociated with the pole or tower. The view is of the pole or tower lookingdown from the sky.In addition, Topobase provides an extended cross section for the elevationview of the pole or tower (looking north or east).


While segments and conductors are stored with geometry, the ducts areattribute feature classes without geometry. Using cross sections, you can presentall elements in the map.

Topobase Electric NA Cross Section TemplatesThe layout and arrangement of the cross section elements can be configured.For example, you can define templates with different arrangements ofconductors and ducts, or with a varying number of ducts. Cross sectiontemplates are stored in the document.

Understanding Topobase Electric NA Cross Sections | 19

A cross section template contains the following components:

■ Origin point

■ Labels

■ Snap points

■ Decoration, such as the polyline representing the segment.

When placed in a map, the cross section shows the ducts and conductors ofthe current segment.

A segment cross section template contains assigned and unassigned snappoints for ducts. It is related to a duct template that contains unassigned snappoints for the conductors.

Topobase Electric NA Cross Section Snap PointsIn cross section templates (for ducts, segments, poles, and towers) snap pointsare used to position features. For example, in a segment cross section, snappoints help you position ducts within the segment. In a duct cross section,snap points help you position conductors within the duct. The number ofsnap points determines the number of ducts that can be placed in a segmentor conductors in a duct.

During data acquisition, use snap points to place a duct at the specified locationin the segment cross section drawing.


NOTE When defining a segment cross section template, you digitize the snappoints for the ducts and conductors, not the ducts and conductors themselves.You digitize ducts and conductors during data acquisition. Similarly, for overheadnetworks, when defining a node cross section template, you digitize the snappoints for the conductors, not the conductors themselves.

Snap points control the cross section creation as follows.

■ Assigned—Use assigned snap points for features whose exact location isknown. These are used only in segment cross sections.

■ Unassigned—Use unassigned snap points for features whose exact positionis not known. For example, in duct templates you always use unassignedsnap points. Also, for example, when you acquire a conductor whose exactlocation in the segment is not yet known, you can use an unassigned snappoint.

■ Position Number—Use Position Number to automatically place a point,or to specify relations to other components of the template, such as labelsor legend.Position number represents the relative position of the snappoint. Theposition number is the same in the different templates. This allows you tochange the template if necessary. When you add new columns or removerows, the position number of the existing items does not change.

■ Labels—Use labels for annotations, such as the order number or a legend.You can use both the snap point label feature class or any cross sectionlabel feature class.

Segment, Duct, Pole, and Tower ModelsFor segments, ducts, poles and towers you can create cross sections of differenttypes. For example, a segment cross section varies in the number of ducts, inthe order of the ducts, or the way the conductors are displayed in the crosssection. For each type of cross section, several templates are available.

■ Segment Model—In the segment model, the template specifies themaximum number of ducts, and the order of ducts in the diagram, suchas 2x3, 2x2, or 6x3.

■ Duct Model—In the duct model, the template specifies the maximumnumber of conductors that can be placed in a duct. The number ofconductors matches the number snap points that are defined in theassigned template.


■ Pole Model—In the pole model, you can assign two templates. TheTemplate (FID_TEMPLATE) specifies the number of conductors that canbe connected to the pole. The number of conductors matches the numbersnap points that are defined in the template. This template is used for dataacquisition. The Extended Template (FID_EXTENDED_TEMPLATE) specifiesan additional cross section that is used for visualization only.

■ Tower Model—In the tower model, you can assign two templates. TheTemplate (FID_TEMPLATE) specifies the number of conductors that canbe connected to the tower. The number of conductors matches the numbersnap points that are defined in the template. This template is used for dataacquisition. The Extended Template (FID_EXTENDED_TEMPLATE) specifiesan additional cross section that is used for visualization only.

For example, when you create a segment, you specify the type of cross sectionby entering the appropriate segment model, such as “2*2 Ducts”. The segmentmodel specifies which template to use when you create the cross section.

For example, when you create a tower you specify the type of cross sectionby entering the appropriate tower model, such as “Transmission 4*1”. Thetower model specifies which template to use when you create the cross section.

Creating a Segment Cross Section Template inTopobase Electric NA

NOTE This procedure applies to Topobase Electric NA.

Topobase Electric NA provides a workflow for creating a segment cross sectiontemplate. To create cross sections for towers and poles, see Defining a NodeCross Section Template in Topobase Electric NA (page 26).

To create a cross section template in Topobase Electric NA


2 In the Segment container, click More ➤ Create Cross Section Template.

You can also start the Create Cross Section Template workflow from theWorkflow Explorer.

3 Under Template Name, specify a name for the cross section template.

4 For CS Origin, click Digitize and specify the origin of the cross section.


5 In the Decoration container, click New. Click Point, Linestring, orPolygon.

6 Draw the cross section decoration geometry. Press Enter to complete eachfeature.

The cross section decoration features are displayed in the Decorationcontainer.

7 In the Snappoint container, click New. Click one of the following options:

■ Array—Specifies an array of snap points.

■ Single—Specifies a single snap point.

8 Define the snap points for the cross section.

For more information, see Building an Array of Snap Points in Topobase(page 24).

9 Optional: In the Duct container, click New. Click snap points to createducts.

This creates a predefined duct. The ducts are displayed in the Ductcontainer. When you are finished creating ducts, press Enter. Note thatpredefined ducts cannot be deleted so create them only if you are certainthey are needed.

10 Click OK to complete the workflow.

To assign the cross section template to a segment model

1 In the Document Explorer, under the topicStructural ➤ Pathway ➤ Segment, select the Segment Model feature class.

NOTE If you create the cross section template using the workflow (in theWorkflow Explorer), the cross section template is assigned to the segmentmodel automatically.

2 Right-click and click Show Form.

3 Click New Record, or filter the segment model you want to assignthe template to.

4 Click the Details tab.

5 For the Template attribute, select the cross section template to assign tothe segment model.


Building an Array of Snap Points in TopobaseThe Topobase Electric NA workflow for creating a cross section templateprovides a tool for building a snap point array.

To build a snap point array

1 In the Create Cross Section Workflow, in the Snap Point container, clickNew ➤ Array.

The Create Cross Section Workflow area is replaced by the Array Settingarea.

2 For Array Structure, click Rectangular or Polar.

3 For Array Type, click Assigned or Unassigned.

For more information about snap points, see Topobase Electric NA CrossSection Snap Points (page 20).

4 Specify the rest of the array settings as desired for the array structure youare creating.

5 Click Create. Click in the map to draw the array.

6 Click Close to close the Array Setting area and return to the workflow.

Using a Topobase Electric NA Segment Cross SectionTemplateCross sections are instantiated automatically when you create a segment andassign the segment model. The following instructions show how to use crosssections for network acquisition. In the drawing, the cross section origin isplaced in the middle of the segment. Create ducts and conductors by clickingsnap points in the cross section.

1 Open the Electric Explorer.

2 Create a segment and assign a segment model.




3 In the Segment container, select the segment.

4 In the Duct container, click New. In the drawing, click the snap pointfor the duct. Assign the duct model.

5 Select the duct, and in the Conductor container, click New.

6 In the cross section, click the duct. You can place as many conductors inthe duct as snap points are defined. When the maximum number ofconductors has been created, as message appears.

To delete a segment cross section

■ Select any of the cross section features, and click Delete.

Creating a Duct Template in Topobase Electric NACreate duct cross sections and associate them with segment cross sections.


2 In the Duct container, click More ➤ Create Duct Template.

You can also start the Create Duct Template workflow from the WorkflowExplorer.

3 Under Template Name, specify a name for the duct template.

4 For CS Origin, click Digitize and specify the origin of the duct.

A duct is inserted in the map at the origin point.




6 Define the snap points for the duct.




To assign the duct template to a duct model

1 In the Document Explorer, under the topic Structural ➤ Pathway ➤ Duct,select the Duct Model feature class.

NOTE If you create the duct template using the workflow (in the WorkflowExplorer), the duct template is assigned to the duct model automatically.


3 Click New Record, or filter the duct model you want to assign thetemplate to.

4 For the Template attribute, select the duct template to assign to the ductmodel.

Defining a Node Cross Section Template in TopobaseElectric NAA node cross section is a view of a pole or tower looking down from the sky.

Tower with two conductors. The standard cross section displays two snap points fortwo more conductors. Use the standard cross section for data acquisition, and theextended cross section is for visualization only.

NOTE Cross sections are complex features. To create a template for a complexfeature you must start the template creation process from the Complex topic inthe Document Explorer.


To define the node standard cross section template

1 Design the cross section layout. For example, use AutoCAD tools to drawa pattern, so you can later digitize the template features quickly.

2 Start Topobase Client and open the workspace.


4 Zoom to a viewport with an appropriate scale, so you can digitize thefeatures with a suitable size.

5 Digitize the following components using the feature classes under theComplex topic:

■ Origin: Right-click the CS Origin feature class. Click Digitize WithForm.

■ Snap points: Right-click the Snappoint feature class. Click DigitizeWith Form.

6 For the snap point features, use the feature class forms to enter thefollowing:

■ Position Number: On the General tab, enter a number for each snappoint. Otherwise, in the extended cross sections the conductors cannot be drawn.

■ CS Origin: On the Details tab, assign the template features to theorigin point.


7 In the map, select the origin. Click Home tab ➤ Quick Access

panel ➤ Attributes.

8 In the Cross Section form, read the FID value. Close the form.

9 In the map, select the template snap points. Click Home tab ➤ Quick

Access panel ➤ Attributes.

10 In the snap point form, click the Details tab, and click the Global Update

icon . Enter the CS Origin by selecting the previously found FIDvalue from the list.

11 Close the form.

12 In the Document Explorer, under the topic Complex, select the CS Originfeature class.

13 Right-click and click Templates ➤ Create From Selection.

14 In the map, select the features you created before. Press <Enter> to finishthe selection.

15 When prompted to select the origin point and orientation, select thepreviously defined origin, and set the orientation to North (0).

16 In the Create Template dialog box, enter a name, such as Transmission4*1.

17 On the General tab, select Group Features When Moving, Rotating, OrDeleting.

18 On the General tab, make sure that you selected only the templatefeatures. Use the Delete Selected Features icons to remove a feature fromthe selection.

19 On the Relations tab, make sure that each template feature has a relationto the CS origin.

20 Click Save.


To assign the cross section template to a pole or tower model

1 In the Document Explorer, under the topic Structural, ➤ Pole orStructural ➤ Tower, select the Pole Model or Tower Model feature class.


3 Click New Record, or filter the tower model you want to assign thetemplate to.


5 For Template, enter a template name to assign to the pole or tower model.

Use this standard node cross section for data acquisition. Define a nodeextended cross section for visualization. Assign the extended node cross sectiontemplate to the model, such as the tower model (Extended Template). Use theElectric Explorer to add an extended cross section to the map.

Using a Node Standard Cross Section TemplateWhen you create a tower or pole, and assign the cross section model, a crosssection is created automatically. In the drawing, the cross section origin isplaced on the tower or pole. Create the conductors by clicking snap points inthe cross section.See Creating an Overhead Transmission Network (page 17).

Using Extended Cross Section TemplatesYou can manually add extended cross sections to poles and towers. Theextended cross section is for additional visualization. You cannot add featuresusing the extended cross section. When you create a new conductor, anexisting extended cross section is not updated. To update the display, youmust delete the extended cross section and create a new one.

To define the node extended cross section template

1 Design the cross section layout.




Zoom to a viewport with an appropriate scale so you can create thefeatures with a suitable size.

4 Digitize the following components, using the feature classes under thetopic Complex:

■ Origin: Use the CS Origin feature class (EL_CS_ORIGIN).

■ Snap points: Use the Snap point (EL_SNAPPOINT) feature class.

■ Decoration: Use the CS Decoration (EL_SC_DECORATION) featureclass.

5 For the snap point features, use the feature class forms to enter thefollowing:

■ Snappoint Type “Exactly Located”

■ Position Number: Enter a number for each snap point. The numbersmust match the position numbers of the standard cross section.

6 Then, assign the template features to the origin point.

In the map, select the origin. Click Home tab ➤ Quick Access

panel ➤ Attributes.

7 In the Cross Section form, read the FID value. Close the form.

8 In the map, select the template snap points and the decoration features.

Click Home tab ➤ Quick Access panel ➤ Attributes.

9 In the snap point form, click the Details tab, and click the Global Update

icon . Enter the CS Origin by selecting the previously found FIDvalue from the list. Also, in the CS Decoration form, assign the origin.


10 Close the form.

11 In the Document Explorer, under the topic Complex, select the CS Originfeature class.

12 Right-click and click Templates ➤ Create From Selection.

13 In the map, select the features you created before. Press <Enter> to finishthe selection.

14 When prompted to select the origin point and orientation, select thepreviously defined origin, and set the orientation to North (0).

15 In the Create Template dialog box, enter a name, such as TransmissionExtended 4*1.

16 On the General tab, select Group Features When Moving, Rotating, OrDeleting.

17 Click Save.

To assign the extended template to a pole or tower model

1 In the Document Explorer, under the topic Structural, ➤ Pole orStructural ➤ Tower, select the Pole Model or Tower Model feature class.


3 Click New Record, or filter the tower model you want to assign thetemplate to.


5 For Extended Template, select an extended template name to assign tothe pole or tower.

Creating Maintenance and Observation Records inTopobase Electric NA

To create maintenance and observation records in Topobase Electric NA, usethe Function menu in the feature class form.

If you start a create maintenance or create observation function from thefeature class form, be aware the current filter. You can apply the function toall features in the filter or to the current feature.

Creating Maintenance and Observation Records in Topobase Electric NA | 31

Creating Topobase Electric NA Maintenance RecordsYou can create and manage maintenance records for several feature classes.Use this function to add maintenance information to a feature. Maintenanceinformation is stored in the Maintenance feature class (EL_MAINTENANCE).

To create maintenance records

1 Open the form for the feature class for which you want to managemaintenance information, for example, Breaker.

2 Click Function ➤ Create Maintenance.

You can also click Create Maintenance on the Related Tables tab.

The Maintenance feature class form is opened with a new record. Note thatin the Details tab, the relation (FID_*) to the feature has already been assigned.

For example, in the General tab, enter the Maintenance Period, and theMaintenance Date. Then, the Next Maintenance Date is calculated by a featurerule. The Compute Next Maintenance Date rule calculates the date using themaintenance period and the date of the last maintenance:

MAINTENANCE_DATE + MAINTENANCE_PERIOD =MAINTENANCE_NEXT_DATE.

See also:

■ Event Feature Classes (page 55)

Creating Topobase Electric NA Observation RecordsYou can administer observations for several feature classes.

To add observations

1 Open the form for the feature class for which you want to add anobservation, for example, Breaker.

2 Click Function ➤ Create Observation.

You can also click Create Observation on the Related Tables tab.

The Observation feature class form is opened with a new record. Notethat in the Details tab, the relation (FID_*) to the feature has already beenassigned.


See also:


Using Topobase Electric NA WorkflowsWorkflows guide you through the most frequently performed tasks. Theycontain embedded information and options specific to the task.

■ Use the Electric Explorer to create electric network features. See Usingthe Topobase Electric Explorer (page 6).

■ Use the Workflow Explorer to start analysis and maintenance workflows.

■ For information on the template creation workflows, see UnderstandingTopobase Electric NA Cross Sections (page 18).

Starting WorkflowsBefore starting a workflow, you must generate graphics.

To start a workflow


2 Click the Workflow Explorer icon to display the workflows.

3 Do one of the following:

■ Double-click a workflow in the Workflows group.

■ Right-click a workflow. Click Execute.

■ Click a workflow. Click Execute.

Using Topobase Electric NA Workflows | 33

Finding Connected Features


Use this analysis workflow to find all features that are topologically connectedto a selected start feature. Select a start feature and one or more optional stopfeatures. The network is traced from the start feature to the stop features.

The workflow is based on the tracing template Find Connected. For moreinformation, see Tracing Templates for Workflows (page 38).

Start/Stop Feature—If you select features before you start the workflow, thesefeatures are used as start or stop feature. Start and stop features must be partof a structural or electric topology, such as devices or conductors. Select onestart feature, and optionally select one or more stop features. Use the tools inthe Workflows pane to remove, to highlight or to zoom to the selected feature.

Include Stop Features—Select Include Stop Features to list all connectedfeatures including the stop features. If this checkbox is cleared, stop featuresare not included in the result list.

NOTE Tracing a network without stop features can take a very long time.

Phase To Trace—If you select a start feature that has a phase information, youcan select a phase to trace. Then, the tracing will stop when the feature phasedoes not match with the selected Phase To Trace.

Direction To Trace—Select a flow direction.

When the tracing has finished, all connected features are displayed in a treeview in the Workflows pane. Use the tools at the top of the Workflows paneto open the feature class form, highlight selected features, and zoom to selectedfeatures. See also Topobase Client User Guide, section Feature Explorer.

Finding Open Devices


Use this analysis workflow to find open devices in an electric network. Opendevices are switchable devices where the State attribute is set to open.

The workflow is based on the tracing template Find Open Devices. See alsoTracing Templates for Workflows (page 38).


To find open devices

1 Start the Find Open Devices workflow.

2 In the Workflow pane, click Select Start Feature, and select the feature inthe map, such as a breaker.

3 Click OK.

When the tracing has finished, all open devices are displayed in a tree viewin the Workflows pane. The order of the resulting features is according to thedistance from the start feature. Use the tools at the top of the Workflows paneto open the feature class form, highlight selected features, and zoom to selectedfeatures. See also Topobase Client User Guide, section Feature Explorer.

Computing Load


Use this analysis workflow to compute the load of devices that consume power.For example, when you plan to feed the electrical network from anotherbreaker (load transfer), you can compute the load of all devices that belongto a circuit.

Consumers are light, meter, motor, service point, and transformer.

The workflow is based on the tracing template Compute Load. For moreinformation, see Tracing Templates for Workflows (page 38).

To compute the load

1 Start the Compute Load workflow.

2 In the Workflow pane, click Select Start Feature, and select the feature inthe map, such as a breaker.

3 Select the phase.

4 Select the consumers.

5 Click OK.

The tracing finds all connected devices that consume power, and calculatesthe sum of the Load factor X consumption. The result is displayed in theWorkflows pane. Click Open Report to open a more detailed report.


Reconfiguring Circuit and Flow


Use the Reconfigure Circuit and Flow workflow when you add new featuresto a network. The workflow will identify the new features as part of the circuitand correct any flow errors.

The workflow is based on the tracing template Reconfigure Circuit And Flow.For more information, see Tracing Templates for Workflows (page 38).

NOTE Before you reconfigure circuit and flow, be sure that the breaker at the startof the circuit is assigned to the circuit and is set as the Device Origin for the circuit.Otherwise, the workflow will fail. Check these links in the forms for the breakerand circuit.

The Circuit button in the Electric Explorer lists circuits that need to bereconfigured. You can select a circuit to start the workflow. Note that if youclose Topobase, this information is lost.

To reconfigure circuit and flow


2 In the Workflow Explorer, right-click Reconfigure Circuit and Flow. ClickExecute.

3 Select the circuit breaker at the start of the network.

Reconfiguring Phase


As you work, Topobase validates phase settings. You are alerted if a phasesetting for a feature is incompatible with an associated feature. Use theReconfigure Phase workflow in the Workflow Explorer to check for phaseinconsistencies and correct them. Before you reconfigure phase, be sure thestart feature is an Electric device and has the phase information assigned.


The workflow is based on the tracing template Reconfigure Phase. For moreinformation, see Tracing Templates for Workflows (page 38).

To reconfigure phase


2 In the Workflow Explorer, right-click Reconfigure Phase. Click Execute.

3 Select a start feature.

Make sure that the start feature is an electric device and has phaseinformation assigned.

4 Specify the phase setting for the feature.

5 Click OK.

The workflow checks for features with inconsistent phase settings,indicates the device, and highlights the device in the map.

6 Correct phase settings as necessary.

Transferring Load


Use this maintenance workflow to transfer load from one circuit to anotherby opening one device and closing another. The two devices must be connectedto two different circuits. Otherwise, it is not possible to start the workflow.The open device will break the two circuits. An open device has no circuitassigned (FID_Circuit attribute is not set).

NOTE Before you transfer load, be sure that the breakers selected are assigned tothe circuits and are set as the Device Origin for the circuit.

The workflow is based on the tracing template Load Transfer. For moreinformation, see Tracing Templates for Workflows (page 38).

To transfer load

1 Start the Load Transfer workflow.


2 In the Workflow pane, under Select Device To Open, click Choose andselect the device in the map.

3 Under Select Device To Close, click Choose and select the device in themap.

The workflow transfers the load, reconfigures the circuit and flow, and checksfor phase inconsistencies. It runs the Reconfigure Circuit And Flow and theReconfigure Phase workflows.

Tracing Templates for WorkflowsThe following tracing templates are defined for use in the Electric workflows.

IMPORTANT Do not modify the tracing templates that are used in the workflows.

■ Find Connected—To find features that are topologically connected. Featureswith ID_STATE = “open” are treated as not connected. See also FindingConnected Features (page 34).

■ Reconfigure Circuit And Flow—To find devices where ID_STATE = “open”.

■ Load Transfer—To find devices where ID_STATE = “open”.

■ Find Open Devices—To find devices where ID_STATE = “open”. See alsoFinding Open Devices (page 34).


■ Compute Load—To find devices where ID_STATE = “open”. See alsoComputing Load (page 35).

■ Reconfigure Phase—To find devices where ID_STATE = “open”.

NOTE The state is defined in the ID_STATE attribute. It is related to the domaintable EL_STATE_TBD that stores the state values.

Open devices: The following ID_STATE values indicate an open device. Adevice with an empty State attribute (ID_STATE = NULL) is not considered asopen.

■ 3—inactive

■ 4—open

■ 7—deenergized

Using Topobase data model administrator, you can view the tracing templates.

To view a tracing template

1 Start Topobase Administrator, and open the workspace.

2 In the Administrator Explorer, select Data Model.

3 In the Data Model Explorer, expand the Topologies node, and expandthe ELECTRIC node, and expand Tracing Templates.

4 Right-click a template and click Properties.

For more information about tracing templates, see Topobase AdministratorGuide, Logical Topology: Tracing Templates.

Creating Station Internal Views


You can create a separate drawing to contain a internal view of a station. Forexample, you might have a substation where a conductor in a segment isconnected to an internal device (tranformer/breaker/fuse). The internal devicesare connected to each other with a conductor.

Creating Station Internal Views | 39

TIP As you work with the station internal feature, keep in mind that you areworking with two drawings, the main drawing and the station internal drawing.Be sure the click in the appropriate drawing to activate it before starting anoperation. For example, to digitize conductors in the station internal drawing,click to activate that drawing before starting your work.

To set the display model for the station internal drawing and to specify thesize of the station internal bounding box, see Setting Topobase Electric NAOptions.

To create a station internal view

1 Define and save two display models, one for the main .dwg and one forthe internal view .dwg.

For more information about display models, see Working with DisplayModels.

2 Click Home tab ➤ Display panel ➤ Display Model list. Select the displaymodel for the main .dwg.


4 In the main .dwg, create a structural feature to associate with the geometryin the internal view.

For example, draw a segment. Select the segment in the Segment containerin the Electric Explorer. In the Segment container, under Model, select across section model to associate with the segment. Create a conductorusing one of the snap points in the cross section.

For more information about cross sections, see Understanding TopobaseElectric NA Cross Sections (page 18).

5 At one end of the segment, draw the feature with which to associate theinternal view. For example, a substation.

Any structure features with the column FID_External_Structure can havean associated station internal.

6 In the Structure container, select the new substation and clickMore ➤ Station Internal.

A second .dwg is created for the station internal.


7 In the station internal .dwg, zoom to view the station internal area.

For example, perform a Zoom Center using the center point of the stationinternal drawing.

You can adjust the size of this area in Document Options. For moreinformation, see Setting Topobase Electric NA Options (page 42).

8 Optionally, select the Station Internal profile to display feature containersrelevant to creating a station internal.

9 In the station internal .dwg, draw the internal features, for example,conductors and devices.

TIP Start with a conductor that has a specific length (for example, 3 meters).If you start digitizing without a value you might create a conductor with asize that is inappropriate to the device you create later.

10 In the Electric Explorer, select the feature that you want to associate witha feature in the station internal .dwg.

For example, in the Conductor container, select a conductor. Use Select

From Map or Select From Trace to populate the featurecontainer with the correct feature. You can then select this feature in thefeature container.

11 In the Electric Explorer, select the internal feature that you want toassociate with a feature in the external .dwg.

For example, in the Conductor container, select a conductor and in theDevice container, select a station internal device. Use Select From Map

or Select From Trace to populate the feature container withthe correct feature. You can then select this feature in the featurecontainer.

12 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Connect With Internal Device.

Alternatively, in the Device container, click More ➤ Connect WithExternal Conductor. You can also use drag and drop to make theconnection.

A logical connection is made between the external and internal features.


Setting Topobase Electric NA Options


There are several options you can set to control the behavior of the ElectricExplorer and station internals.

To set Topobase Electric options


2 In the Document Options dialog box, in the left pane, click the ElectricExplorer node.

3 In the Electric Explorer Options area, set any of the following options:

■ General: Specify how many features to retain in the Last Used featurelists. Specify whether to show a form automatically upon featurecreation. Specify the amount of time to pause before moving to thenext cross section when creating conductors.

■ "Transmission" Feature Containers: Specify the display of Transmissionprofile feature containers.

■ Station Internal: Specify the display model to use for the stationinternal drawing. Define the default station internal bounding box.Display Model: Use Current One On Main Map applies the samedisplay model in the station internal drawing as in the main drawing.Use Outer Resource specifies a different display model file (.tbdm) touse for the station internal dwg.

Station Internal Size: The station internal of a structure has a sizelimitation. If you open a station internal and zoom out several times,you will observe a black square which indicates the border of thestation internal. You cannot draw outside this square. The StationInternal Size setting specifies the height and width of the stationinternal border.

Using Topobase Electric NA ReportsTopobase Electric provides several predefined reports. The report templateshave been created with the Topobase Report Designer.

■ Data Model Description


■ Electric Network Statistics

■ Observation

■ Check Voltage

■ Check Phase

■ Compute Load

■ COGO reports—Only if the COGO extension is available. For example,ARC Intersection, or Center. See Construction Reports.

To generate a report


2 Click Output tab ➤ Reports and Profiles panel ➤ Open Report.

3 In the Report dialog box, select a report definition.

4 Click Preview.

The report is displayed in a secondary window. You can print the reportor change its format to html, ascii, or pdf.

For more information about the report designer, see the Topobase AdministratorGuide.

Understand and Work with the Topobase Electric NAData Model

Topobase Electric database tables have the prefix EL_.

Exploring the Topobase Electric NA Data ModelUse the Topobase data model administrator to explore the data model withits topics, feature classes, topologies, and feature rules.

To explore the Topobase Electric NA data model

1 Start Topobase Administrator and open a Topobase Electric NA workspace.

2 In the Administrator Explorer, expand the workspace and the document.

Understand and Work with the Topobase Electric NA Data Model | 43

3 Click Data Model.

The Data Model Administrator displays the feature class topics, domains, andtopologies in the Electric data model. Expand the topics to view the featureclasses provided for each topic. For more information, see Data ModelAdministrator Introduction.

Administration Feature ClassesThis topic contains the feature classes that store and manage contacts,contracts, customer and manufacturer information, and location. In addition,the Administration topic includes a polygon feature class for managingadministrative areas such as cities, counties, or districts.

Table name and de-scription

TypeFeature class

EL_ADMIN_AREA. Man-ages the polygon that

GeometryAdministrative Area

represents a region of in-terest such as a city,country, or district. Thisfeature class has a pre-defined label: EL_AD-MIN_AREA_TBL

EL_CONTACT. Managescontact information such

AttributeContact

as owner, concessionaires,installer, operator, ormaintenance person. TheContact form is linked tomany other feature classforms using relations. Toview the list of relatedtables, display the Con-tact form and click theRelated Tables tab. Fromthe Contact form you canaccess several electric net-work features using thebuttons on the RelatedTables tab. For example,



TypeFeature class

select a maintenancecompany and find allelectric network featuresit is responsible for.

EL_CONTRACT. Managescontract information re-

AttributeContract

lated to an electric fea-ture. For example, youmight use the Contractfeature class to manage ajoint use agreement for astructure such as a pole,that is shared betweentwo utility companies.

EL_CUSTOMER_INFO.Manages customer inform-

AttributeCustomer Info

ation associated with aservice point or meter.

EL_LOCATION. Manageslocation information such

AttributeLocation

as street name for electricfeatures. From the Loca-tion form you can accesselectric network featuresand customer informationusing the link buttons onthe Related Tables tab.For example, you can se-lect a location and find allcustomers associated withthis location. This featureclass has a predefined la-bel: EL_LOCATION_TBL

EL_MANUFACTURER.Manages manufacturer

AttributeManufacturer

data for materials and as-semblies.


Circuit Feature ClassThis topic contains one attribute feature class that stores and manages circuitinformation. A circuit is a group of connected electric devices and conductors.All device and conductor feature classes are related to a circuit (FID_CIRCUIT).A circuit starts at an origin device such as a circuit breaker (EL_BREAKER.FID).

NOTE Use the Electric Explorer to create and edit features in the electric network.

Table name and descriptionTypeFeature class

EL_CIRCUIT. Stores and managesinformation about the circuit.

AttributeCircuit

Every element in the circuit mustbe associated with the circuit us-ing the Circuit attribute(FID_Circuit) in the form for eachelement.Related table: EL_BREAKER. TheDevice Origin attribute in theCircuit form links to theEL_BREAKER table and specifiesthe device that feeds the circuit.

Complex Feature ClassesThis topic contains the feature classes for cross section templates. They storethe geometry components that are used to display cross sections in the map.

NOTE Use the Electric Explorer to create and edit cross section templates. Donot modify these forms directly.

Use the Display Manager to style the cross section components. For moreinformation on styling features, see the AutoCAD Map 3D User’s Guide.


EL_V_CS_DUCT. View used forstylization.

Point geometryCross Section Duct View

EL_V_CS_CONDUCTOR. Viewused for stylization.

Point geometryCS_Conductor View



EL_CS_ORIGIN. Stores the originpoint of the cross section.

Point geometryCS Origin

Related table: EL_SEGMENT. Thecross section is related to a seg-ment (EL_SEGMENT.FID).

EL_CS_CONDUCTOR. Stores thepoints that represent the con-ductors in a cross section.

Point geometryCS Conductor

Related tables: EL_CS_ORIGIN,EL_CS_DUCT, EL_SEG-MENT_CONDUCTOR,EL_SNAPPOINT. The conductoris related to the cross section(EL_CS_ORIGIN.FID).

EL_CS_DECORATION. Storesstyle information for the cross

Point, polygon, or linegeometry

CS Decoration

section, for example, a borderline.The cross section decoration isrelated to the cross section(EL_CS_ORIGIN.FID).

EL_CS_DECORATION_L. Storesthe line that leads from the cross

Line geometryCS Decoration L

section origin to the segment.This line is created automaticallywhen you place a cross sectionthat is offset from a segment.The decoration line is related tothe cross section (EL_CS_ORI-GIN.FID).

EL_CS_DUCT. Stores the pointsthat represent ducts in the crosssection.

Point geometryCS Duct

Related tables: EL_CS_ORIGIN,EL_SEGMENT_DUCT, EL_SNAP-POINT. The duct is related to the



cross section (EL_CS_ORI-GIN.FID).

EL_SNAPPOINT. Stores the snappoint locations for the cross sec-tions.

Point geometrySnappoint

Snap points are related to thecross section (EL_CS_ORI-GIN.FID).

EL_V_SNAPPOINT. View used forstylization.

Point geometrySnappoint view

See also:

■ Understanding Topobase Electric NA Cross Sections (page 18)

Conductor Feature ClassesThis topic contains the conductor feature classes. A conductor is used to carryelectrical energy from point to point. Conductors are related to the circuit(FID_CIRCUIT).



EL_CONDUCTOR. A conductor is usedto carry electric energy from point to

Line geometryConductor

point. The conductor is related to acircuit and a structure such as tower,pole, or manhole.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_CON-TACT_CONCESSIONAIRE, EL_CON-TACT_INSTALLER, EL_CONTACT_MAIN-TENANCE, EL_CONTACT_OPERATOR,EL_CONTACT_OWNER, EL_LOCATION,EL_STRUCTUREThis feature class has a predefined la-bel: EL_CONDUCTOR_TBL



EL_CONDUCTOR_MODEL. Stores in-formation about the conductor modelsuch as manufacturer and material.

AttributeConductor Model

EL_FIBER. Use this feature class tomanage telecommunication fibers if

AttributeFiber

they are included with Electric assets.A fiber is a very thin, flexible, glass orplastic strand along which largequantities of information can be trans-mitted in the form of light pulses. Aconductor can contain several fibres.Fibers are not part of the electricalnetwork.

Conductors are related to the structural network. Conductors can be locatedin several segments or in several ducts. A segment can contain several ductsand a duct can contain several conductors.

NOTE Use the Electric Explorer to manage conductors.

Construct Feature ClassesConstruction (COGO) elements (lines, points, and text) appear temporarilywith the help of Construct feature classes. These are removed from the drawingas soon as you save the new elements and quit or close the dialog boxes.

NOTE Use Document Settings in Topobase Administrator to add the Constructfeature classes.

Make sure that the newly created feature classes are visible in the selectedexplorer group and that an appropriate stylization has been defined in theDisplay Model.

Device Feature ClassesThis topic contains the device feature classes that make up the electric network.The electric network also includes the Conductor feature class. TheElectric_CONN feature class stores flow and connectivity information for thelogical topology. Most device feature classes also have predefined label and


model feature classes as well. All devices are related to a circuit (FID_CIRCUIT).See also Circuit Feature Class (page 46).


EL_BREAKER. A protection device thatopens in an overcurrent condition to

Point geometryBreaker

protect the circuit. A breaker is usuallyinstalled in substations at the start of acircuit.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_BUS_BAR. A heavy conductor usedto collect, carry, and distribute electriccurrents.

Point, line, and poly-gon geometry

Bus Bar

Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_CAPACITOR. An electric circuit ele-ment used to store charge temporarily.

Point geometryCapacitor


EL_CURRENT_REGULATOR. Maintainsthe current on the network within agiven tolerance.

Point geometryCurrent Regulator


EL_ELBOW. A terminator for a conduct-or before it connects to a device.

Point geometryElbow


EL_ELECTRIC_CONN. This table is usedinternally for logical topology informa-

AttributeElectric_CONN

tion (connections and flow) for electricnetworks. Do not modify this table.

EL_FAULT_THROWER. An earth switchthat is closed by local protection

Point geometryFault Thrower

equipment on an energized circuit un-der fault conditions, remotely tripping



the circuit-breaker(s) controlling thecircuit.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_FUSE. A protection device thatopens to protect the upstream circuit

Point geometryFuse

sections from faults occurring down-stream from the fuse. The fuse openswhen the operating current exceedsthe cutout current.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_CON-TACT_CONCESSIONAIRE, EL_CON-TACT_INSTALLER, EL_CONTACT_MAIN-TENANCE, EL_CONTACT_OPERATOR,EL_CONTACT_OWNER, EL_LOCATION,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_GENERATOR. Converts mechanicalenergy into electrical energy.

Point geometryGenerator

Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_CON-TACT_CONCESSIONAIRE, EL_CON-TACT_INSTALLER, EL_CONTACT_MAIN-TENANCE, EL_CONTACT_OPERATOR,EL_CONTACT_OWNER, EL_LOCATION,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_GROUND. Grounds electricalequipment to earth.

Point geometryGround


EL_HEAD_BOLT_OUTLET. Supplieselectric current for vehicle heating incold weather climates.

Point geometryHead Bolt Outlet


EL_ISOLATOR. Separates a component,circuit, or system from a source ofelectricity.

Point geometryIsolator




EL_JUNCTION. Links two or more con-ductors.

Point geometryJunction


EL_LIGHT. A street light.Point geometryLightRelated tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_MANU-FACTURER, EL_STRUCTURE

EL_LIGHTNING_ARRESTER. Protects theelectric network from lightning.

Point geometryLightning Arrester


EL_LOAD_TAP_CHANGER. On-load tap-changing mechanism for power trans-formers.

Point geometryLoad Tap Changer


EL_METER. Measures the quantity andrate of electricity through a section ofline.

Point geometryMeter


EL_MOTOR. Converts electrical energyinto mechanical energy.

Point geometryMotor


EL_RECLOSER. A protection device thatdetects downstream faults and inter-rupts the faulted section.

Point geometryRecloser




EL_REGULATOR. Maintains the currenton the network within a given toler-ance.

Point geometryRegulator


EL_RISER. The connection betweenunderground and overhead networks.

Point geometryRiser


EL_SECTIONALIZER. A protective devicethat automatically isolates faulted sec-

Point geometrySectionalizer

tions of a circuit. Because it does nothave fault-interrupting capability, asectionalizer is used with a backupdevice such as a breaker or a recloser.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_SERVICE_POINT. The boundarybetween the network and the custom-

Point geometryService Point

er. A service point may have manycustomers associated to it. The sym-bology of the service point reflects thetype of customers fed by the networkat that point.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_SLEEVE. Repairs or connects cable.Point geometrySleeveRelated tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_CON-TACT_CONCESSIONAIRE, EL_CON-TACT_INSTALLER, EL_CONTACT_MAIN-TENANCE, EL_CONTACT_OPERATOR,EL_CONTACT_OWNER, EL_LOCATION,EL_STRUCTURE



EL_SWITCH. Opens or closes to changethe load distribution or the configura-tion of the network.

Point geometrySwitch


EL_TERMINATION. Terminates a looseend of a conductor.

Point geometryTermination


EL_TRANSFORMER. Converts the gen-erator's low-voltage electricity to higher

Point geometryTransformer

voltage levels for transmission to theload center, such as a city or factory.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_WAY. A switchable point within lowvoltage switchgear.

Point geometryWay

A way is a point of isolation on a lowvoltage network. The circuits that comefrom a low voltage board in substationsare protected by a fuseway. The con-nection between the low voltage boardand transformer is controlled by a link-way.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

See also:

■ Understanding Topobase Electric CE Topologies (page 64)


Dimension Feature ClassesThis topic contains dimension feature classes for storing dimension lines,labels, and points.

For more information about setting up dimensioning, see Document Settings.For more information about using dimensioning, see Adding Dimensions.

Event Feature ClassesThis topic contains the feature classes for events and the associatedobservations and maintenance information related to a feature.


EL_EVENT. Stores events suchas inspections including event

AttributeEvent

type and contact information.An event can be related to sev-eral observations and an obser-vation can be related to severalmaintenance activities. For ex-ample, for a damage event, theobservation might be inspection



information and the mainten-ance might be repair informa-tion.Related table: EL_CONTACT

EL_MAINTENANCE. Storesmaintenance work such as

AttributeMaintenance

washing, inspection, or functionchecking. Maintenance can berelated to an observation.Related tables: EL_CONTACT,EL_FEATURE, EL_OBSERVATION

EL_OBSERVATION. Stores obser-vation activities that apply to a

Point, line, and polygongeometry

Observation

feature, for example, meterreading. Observations can berelated to an event. You can usea point, line, or polygon to in-dicate a location in the map.Related tables: EL_CONTACT,EL_EVENT, EL_FEATURE

In the feature class forms, use the Reference buttons to show the relatedfeatures. For example, in the Event form, click the Observation Reference


button to show all observations that are

related to the current event, or use the Projection button to show allobservations that are related to the events in the filter. Use feature functionsto create maintenance records.

See also:

■ Creating Topobase Electric NA Maintenance Records (page 32)

■ Creating Topobase Electric NA Observation Records (page 32)

Miscellaneous Feature Classes

MarkerThis topic contains marker feature classes. A marker can be a sign or a concretemonument installed either directly above or immediately adjacent tounderground lines, bends or fittings to indicate the presence of electricity.Markers are not part of the electrical network.

You can assign a marker to a devices. Marker details are stored in a modeltable.


EL_MARKER. Stores marker information.This feature class has a predefined label

Point, line, or poly-gon geometry

Marker

and and associated model table. Markersare related to devices.

Structural Feature ClassesThis topic contains the structural feature classes that make up the structuralnetwork plus some additional structural feature classes. The Structural_CONN


feature class stores flow and connectivity information for the logical topology.Most structural feature classes have an associated model table.


EL_ACCESS_POINT. A structure thatprovides access to electric facilities.

Point geometryAccess Point

EL_ANCHOR. An anchor associated with astructure. This feature class includes a pre-

Point geometryAnchor

defined label feature class (EL_AN-CHOR_TBL). Not included in the structuralnetwork.

EL_ANTENNA. An anchor associated witha structure. This feature class includes a

Point geometryAntenna

predefined label feature class (EL_AN-TENNA_TBL). Not included in the structur-al network.

EL_ARRESTOR. An anchor associated witha structure. This feature class includes a

Point geometryArrestor

predefined label feature class (EL_AR-RESTOR_TBL). Not included in the structur-al network.

EL_CAPACITOR_BANK. A set of individualcapacitors grouped with each other. This

Point geometryCapacitor Bank

feature class includes a predefined labelfeature class (EL_CAPACITOR_BANK_TBL).

EL_CONNECTION_BOX. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_CONNECTION_BOX_TBL).

Point geometryConnection Box

EL_CONNECTOR. This feature class con-nects two segments. It includes a pre-

Point geometryConnector

defined label feature class (EL_CONNECT-OR_TBL).

EL_ELBOW_BANK. This feature class in-cludes a predefined label feature class(EL_ELBOW_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryElbow Bank



EL_ENCLOSURE. This feature class includesa predefined label feature class (EL_EN-CLOSURE_TBL).

Point geometryEnclosure

EL_FEEDER_PILLAR. A metal cabinet withopening doors. This feature class includes

Point geometryFeeder Pillar

a predefined label feature class (EL_FEED-ER_PILLAR_TBL).

EL_FUSE_BANK. This feature class includesa predefined label feature class(EL_FUSE_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryFuse Bank

EL_GUY. A wire that supports a pole. It actsagainst the tension provoked by the cables

Line geometryGuy

attached to the pole. Not included in thestructural network.

EL_HANDHOLE. A small underground ac-cess point. This feature class includes a

Point geometryHandhole

predefined label feature class (EL_HAND-HOLE_TBL).

EL_JUNCTION_CABINET. An above groundcabinet used to split a single supply into

Point geometryJunction Cabinet

multiple supplies. This feature class in-cludes a predefined label feature class(EL_JUNCTION_CABINET_TBL).

EL_LINK_BOX. A sunken box with a con-crete lid at ground level. This feature class

Point geometryLink Box

includes a predefined label feature class(EL_LINK_BOX_TBL).

EL_LV_BOARD. LV Distribution busbarmounted on the substation wall. This fea-

Point, line, andpolygon geometry

LV Board

ture class includes a predefined label fea-ture class (EL_LV_BOARD_TBL).

EL_MANHOLE. An underground accesspoint. This feature class includes a pre-

Point geometryManhole



defined label feature class (EL_MAN-HOLE_TBL).

EL_PAD. A structure that is made of pouredconcrete, laid over a gravel base, upon

Point geometryPad

which electric facilities (most commonlytransformers) are placed. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_PAD_TBL).

EL_PATHWAY. A group of segments.AttributePathway

EL_PEDESTAL. This feature class includes apredefined label feature class (EL_PEDES-TAL_TBL).

Point geometryPedestal

EL_POLE. Supports overhead devices in theelectrical system. This feature class includes

Point geometryPole

a predefined label feature class(EL_POLE_TBL).

EL_RECLOSER_BANK. This feature class in-cludes a predefined label feature class(EL_RECLOSER_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryRecloser Bank

EL_REGULATOR_BANK. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_REGULATOR_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryRegulator Bank

EL_SECTIONALIZER_BANK. This featureclass includes a predefined label featureclass (EL_SECTIONALIZER_BANK_TBL).

Point geometrySectionalizer Bank

EL_STRUCTURAL_CONN. This table is usedinternally for logical topology information

AttributeStructural_CONN

for structural networks. Do not modify thistable.

EL_STRUCTURE_DECO. Not included inthe structural network. This feature class is


Structure Decora-tion

used for visualization of structural details,such as a footprint.



EL_SUBSTATION. A walled structure wherevoltage transformation takes place. The

Point geometrySubstation

substation itself is not connected to theelectric network. It is part of the structuralnetwork. This feature class includes a pre-defined label feature class (EL_SUBSTA-TION_TBL).

EL_SUPPORT_CONDUCTOR. Not includedin the structural network.

AttributeSupport Conductor

EL_SWITCH_BANK. This feature class in-cludes a predefined label feature class(EL_SWITCH_BANK_TBL).

Point geometrySwitch Bank

EL_SWITCH_BOARD. A mechanical devicefor shifting an electric current to another

Point geometrySwitch Board

circuit. This feature class includes a pre-defined label feature class(EL_SWITCH_BOARD_TBL).

EL_SWITCHGEAR. Switching equipmentused in an electric power station. This fea-

Point geometrySwitchgear

ture class includes a predefined label fea-ture class (EL_SWITCHGEAR_TBL).

EL_TOWER. A special type of pole structure,characterized by its size and construction

Point geometryTower

type. It usually supports high voltage con-ductors. This feature class includes a pre-defined label feature class(EL_TOWER_TBL).

EL_TRANSFORMER_BANK. This featureclass includes a predefined label featureclass (EL_TRANSFORMER_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryTransformer Bank

EL_TS_STATION. This feature class includesa predefined label feature class(EL_TS_STATION_TBL).

Point geometryTransformer Sta-tion



EL_VAULT. A walled structure that can beunderground or on a slab and which

Point geometryVault

houses electric devices. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_VAULT_TBL).

EL_WARNING_LIGHT. Warning light asso-ciated with a structure. This feature class

Point geometryWarning Light

includes a predefined label feature class(EL_WARNING_LIGHT_TBL). Not includedin the structural network.

Template Feature ClassesThis topic contains attribute tables that store the template definitions.

IMPORTANT Do not edit these tables manually. They are managed by theapplication when you author a template using Topobase Client.


TB_FEATURE_GROUP. Stores thegrouping of the template features.

InternalFeature Group

When a template is instantiated, anew record is added.

TB_FEATURE_GROUP_FEATURE.Stores the relation between an in-

InternalFeature GroupFeature

stantiated feature and a featuregroup, indicating that a feature ispart of an instantiated template.

See also:

■ Working with Templates


Using Topobase Electric CE

IntroductionUse Autodesk® Topobase™ Electric CE to manage and analyze electric networks.Topobase Electric CE is designed to manage underground electric infrastructure.You can create an internal view of a station and associate it with externalfeatures. You can create multi conductors to provide a real world visualrepresentation of conductors.

The data model delivered with Topobase Electric is usually customized to meetcustomer or project requirements in different countries and regions. Thiscustomization impacts feature class form layout, additional functions, thecontent of domains, and available reports. This guide describes basicfunctionality, not specific customizations.

About Topobase Electric CETopobase Electric uses two separate networks for electrical and structuralelements Electrical elements include conductors and devices such as breakersand switches. Segments (trenches) are structural elements. Segments containducts which in turn contain conductors.

The structural network stores the connectivity of structures while the electricalnetwork stores the connectivity of electrical elements. The two networks arerelated. For example, conductors are placed in segments and devices orconductors are assigned to structures.

The electrical and structural networks are logical topologies, meaning thatthey support and manage connections between features that are not necessarilyspatially connected. Using a logical topology, you can connect two pointfeatures, such as electric devices. The connectivity and flow information ofthe features is stored in the topology tables EL_CONN (for electric networks)and EL_STR_CONN (for structural networks). We strongly recommend thatyou do not modify these tables.

Topobase Electric uses cross sections to visualize the contents of a segment.For example, a segment cross section shows ducts and conductors that run inthe segment. Use cross sections to view and position ducts and conductors insegments. For more information, see Creating a Cross Section Template inTopobase Electric CE (page 77).

Using Topobase Electric CE | 63

Understanding Topobase Electric CE TopologiesThe Topobase Electric data model contains two topologies.

■ Structural topology—Segments and other structural features build thestructural network.

■ Electrical topology—Conductors and devices build the electrical network.

The Topobase Electric networks are logical topologies which means thatfeatures are connected without requiring a spatial relationship.

The logical topologies are defined in the Data Model Administrator. Use theData Model Administrator to view the settings including tracing templates.

Although the electrical and structural networks are administered separately,the electrical and structural objects are related. For example, in the ElectricExplorer, you can select a segment (structure) and show all conductors (electric)that lie within.

Electrical TopologyThe Electric topology maintains the connectivity between conductors anddevices. Topobase Electric uses a logical topology to manage the connectionsbetween electric features. Features are connected without requiring a spatialconnection. Use the Topobase Administrator to configure the topology (whichfeature classes can be connected with which other feature classes). Use theConnectivity manager to manage the connections in Topobase Client orTopobase Web. For more information about logical topologies, see LogicalTopology Introduction.


NOTE Conductors can only be connected to devices, not other conductors. Aconductor must be connected to two devices, one on each end. You can connecttwo devices, for example, a fuse switch to a transformer.

To view or modify Electric topology settings

1 Start Topobase Administrator and open the relevant Topobase Electricworkspace.

2 In the Administrator Explorer, click Data Model.

3 In the Data Model Explorer, expand the Topology node.

4 Right-click the electric topology. Click Properties.

5 In the Logical Topology dialog box, click Feature Classes In The Topologyto view the feature classes that are part of the topology.

6 Click Connectivity Between Feature Classes to view the connectivity.

Connectivity TablesIn Topobase Electric CE, the connection tables are called EL_CONN andEL_STR_CONN. These tables store the connectivity information betweenfeatures and the flow direction. Connectivity is established when you initializethe topology. When you digitize new features, the connectivity and flow areupdated. We strongly recommend that you do not modify these tables.

When you insert a group of features using a template, the connectivity forboth spatially connected and nonspatially connected features is stored asdefined in the template.

DescriptionConnectivity Attribute

Specifies a particular feature.FID_FROM

Specifies the connected feature.FID_TO

Specifies the flow direction between aparticular feature (FID_FROM) and theconnected feature (FID_TO).

FLOW

■ 1 = forward

■ 2= backward

■ 3= both

Understanding Topobase Electric CE Topologies | 65

Using the Topobase Electric ExplorerUse the Electric Explorer to view, build, and maintain electric networks. TheElectric Explorer provides access to many features at one time and can displaythe relationships between features. Each class of features is displayed in aseparate container. The Electric Explorer displays segments, ducts, conductors,devices, and other electric elements and provides functions and workflows tomanage network features.

You can connect segments, ducts, and conductors using drag and drop in theElectric Explorer. This greatly simplifies the process of building your networks.The following procedure describes the process using the example of ducts andsegment. The same process applies to conductors, ducts, and segments.

To connect using drag and drop

1 In the Duct container, select a duct.

2 In the Segment container, select a segment.

3 Drag the selected duct and drop it on the selected segment.

NOTE If you want to spread a duct over more than one segment, you mustpreselect them as described. Otherwise, you can simply drag and drop theduct on the segment.

The duct is placed in the segment at an unassigned (not exactly located)position. If the Segment has no unassigned snap points, a message isdisplayed. Similarly, you can position conductors in ducts and segmentsusing the same process.


Creating Electric Explorer ProfilesUsing Topobase Administrator you can customize the Electric Explorer bycreating profiles that display only the containers you need. For example, anUnderground profile would contain conductors, ducts, and devices but notpoles or towers. A station internal profile would contain conductors, devices,and structures needed in the station internal view. You can make profilesavailable to different user groups. For more information, see Setting Up ElectricExplorer Profiles.

To change Electric Explorer profiles

■ Select the profile of interest from the drop-down list in the upper rightcorner of the Electric Explorer.

Customizing the Electric ExplorerUse Topobase Client Document Settings to customize the Topobase ElectricExplorer. You can control the number of features to store in the Last Used list,the time to pause when inserting ducts and conductors across multiple crosssections, the order of the containers, and feature attributes displayed in thecontainer.

You can specify:

■ The number of Last Used features to save per container as you work.

■ Whether or not the feature class form should display automatically afteryou create a new feature.

■ The time to pause when inserting ducts or conductors across multiple crosssections. You can set this time to zero to approve all the snap points andinsert the ducts or conductors at once.

■ The order of containers.

■ Which attributes are visible in the containers and in what order.

To customize the Electric Explorer


2 In the Document Options dialog box, in the left pane, click the ElectricCE Explorer node.


3 Under Electric Explorer Options, click the General tab. Set any of thefollowing options:

DescriptionGeneral Tab Option

Specifies the number of features that areshown in the Last Used section of thecontainers.

Last Used Features

Select Show Form After Create New if youwant the feature class form to be opened

Feature Creation

after you create a feature so you can enterattribute data.When you are creating features acrossmultiple snap points, you can increase thespeed of the process by specifying thedelay between snap points in milliseconds.If you set the value to zero, Topobase dis-plays a zoomed out map with all snappoints highlighted through the last seg-ment. You can create the duct or conduct-or in one click.

4 Click the Feature Containers tab.

5 Under Electric Explorer Options, click the profile_name Feature Containerstab.

Where profile_name is the current Electric Explorer profile you haveselected from the list of profiles at the top of the Electric Explorer.

6 Under Visible Feature Containers, select a container and use the up anddown arrows to control its position in the Electric Explorer.

7 Under Attribute Visibility/Order, select the checkbox for the attributesto display in the container. Clear the checkbox to remove an attributefrom the container.

8 Select an attribute and use the up and down arrows to control its positionfrom left to right at the top of the container.

Populating the Topobase Electric ExplorerTo work with the Electric Explorer you must select features in the map or filterthe features in the form, and load them into the Electric Explorer. Features


are loaded into their corresponding containers. You can select a region of themap to populate all the Electric Explorer containers at once, or you canpopulate each container individually.

NOTE When you populate containers by individual feature class, you select anentire region in the map. The selected features are filtered to display just the featureclass desired.

To load a class of features

1 From the Electric Explorer tool bar, click Select Feature From Map.

2 Select a region of interest.

The Electric Explorer containers are populated with the features in theregion you specify.

To populate containers individually

1 In the Segment container, click More ➤ Select From Map. Select one ormore segments in the map. Right-click to finish the selection.


2 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Select From Map. Select oneor more conductors in the map. Right-click to finish the selection.


3 In the Duct container, click More ➤ Select From Map. Select a duct thatis displayed in the cross section.


If no cross sections are available, you can select ducts from the Segmentcontainer using Select Child Feature(s). For more information, see ViewingRelated Features (page 70).

To populate a container using a feature class form

1 From the Document Explorer, open the feature class form of interest, forexample, Breaker.

2 Define any filter to select a set of features.


3 On the feature class form toolbar, click Add The Features In This Dialog

To The Electric Explorer.

4 Open the Electric Explorer. The selected features have been loaded intothe appropriate container.

Viewing Related FeaturesUse Select Child Feature(s) and Select Parent Feature to view, locate, and selectassociated network features. For example, select a segment and use Select ChildFeature(s) to view all the features within that segment. Alternatively, select adevice or conductor and use Select Parent Feature to view the ducts andsegments that contain the device or conductor.

To select features within a selected feature

■ Right-click a feature in the Electric Explorer. Click Select Child Feature(s).

To select the features that include a selected feature

■ Right-click a feature in the Electric Explorer. Click Select Parent Feature.

Creating an Underground NetworkUse the Electric Explorer to create an underground electric network.Relationships between structural elements (such as manholes and substations)and electric devices (such as breakers and switches) are managed automatically.This procedure creates the network by directing you to place devices and thenconnect them with segments. You can use any process that makes sense toyou. You can order the containers in the Electric Explorer in a logical mannerto support your process.

To create an underground network




3 Click Electric Explorer to display the Electric Explorer task pane.

4 Optionally, select the Underground profile to display feature containersrelevant to creating an underground network.

5 In the Device container, click New ➤ Breaker.

The breaker is a point geometry feature. You are prompted to draw thebreaker in the map.

6 Draw the breaker. Press ENTER to add the breaker.

The new breaker is added to the Device container and is identified witha unique feature identification number (FID).

7 Select the new breaker in the Device container.

You can set some attributes for the breaker using the drop down listsavailable in the Device container. Click in a different row or column tocomplete attribute entry. If the attributes you want to set are not availablein the container, you can add them using Document Options. For moreinformation, see Customizing the Electric Explorer (page 67).

8 Click More ➤ Show Form.

9 Optional: In the Breaker form, locate the Circuit (FID_Circuit) attributeand select the circuit for this breaker.

10 Create any other devices, for example, a transformer and a service pointand then set attributes.

NOTE You can create additional features using the Last Used feature setdisplayed at the bottom of each container. Overflow Last Used features areavailable in a drop down list. You can lock the set of Last Used features topreserve a set you will use regularly. Otherwise the Last Used set is updatedas you add features.

11 Next, create the segment (representing the trench) to connect the breakerto the next device (such as a transformer or service point).

In the Segment container, click New. Draw the segment by clicking onthe breaker and then the next device. Click in a different row or columnto complete the segment. Press ESC to end the command.





The Model setting specifies the type of cross section to use, for example,a 2x2 cross section with four ducts. When you specify the cross sectionmodel to use, a cross section representation of the segment is displayedin the map. The FID Template attribute displays the selected template inthe container.

NOTE The position of the cross section along the segment is defined in thecross section template. For more information on defining cross sections, seeUnderstanding Topobase Electric CE Cross Sections (page 73).

13 Insert a duct in the segment cross section.

In the Duct container, click New ➤ Duct. Click a snap point to positionthe duct.

NOTE If the network contains multiple segments, zoom out, locate the nextcross section, and click to position the duct in the cross section. Repeat foreach segment.

14 Create conductors.

In the Conductor container, click New ➤ Underground Conductor. Clickin the duct. Geometry is generated for the conductor for each segment.

15 Select the conductor in the container. Set voltage attributes for theconductor. Click in a different row or column to complete attribute entry.

Creating Ducts and Conductors AutomaticallyOnce you have created segments and specified cross section models, you canadd ducts and conductors quickly by selecting the duct or conductor positionin the first segment cross section and in the last segment cross section. Theduct or conductor will be generated along the entire network.

To create ducts and conductors automatically



2 In the Electric Explorer, click Clear All Containers.

3 Click Select Features From Map.

4 Select the segments in your network.

NOTE There must be a structural node between each segment.




Each segment must have an Model assigned to specify the type of crosssection to use. For more information on defining cross sections, seeUnderstanding Topobase Electric CE Cross Sections (page 73).

6 In the Duct container, click New.

7 In the first segment, click the snap point for the duct.

Snap points in all segments are highlighted.

8 In the last segment, click the snap point for the duct.

The duct is generated along all the segments in the network. Alternatively,you can confirm the suggested snap points by pressing ENTER.

9 Repeat this process to create the conductors automatically.

Understanding Topobase Electric CE Cross SectionsCross sections simplify the management of the relationships between segments,ducts, and conductors during data acquisition. A segment cross section showsthe ducts and conductors that lie in the underground network segment. Youcan edit the conductors and ducts in the cross section. For example, you canplace or remove ducts in the segment, and you can place or remove conductorsin a duct.

Understanding Topobase Electric CE Cross Sections | 73

Topobase Electric CE Cross Section TemplatesThe layout and arrangement of the cross section elements can be configured.For example, you can define templates with different arrangements ofconductors and ducts, or with a varying number of ducts. Cross sectiontemplates are stored in the document.

A cross section template contains the following components:

■ Origin point

■ Labels


■ Snap points

■ Decoration, such as the polyline representing the segment.

When placed in a map, the cross section shows the ducts and conductors ofthe current segment.

A segment cross section template contains assigned and unassigned snappoints for ducts. It is related to a duct template that contains unassigned snappoints for the conductors.

Topobase Electric CE Cross Section Snap PointsIn templates, snap points are used to position features. For example, in asegment cross section, snap points help you position ducts within the segment.In a duct cross section, snap points help you position conductors within theduct. The number of snap points determines the number of ducts that can beplaced in a segment or conductors in a duct.

During data acquisition, use snap points to place a duct at the specified locationin the segment cross section drawing.

NOTE When defining a segment cross section template, you digitize the snappoints for the ducts and conductors, not the ducts and conductors themselves.You digitize ducts and conductors during data acquisition.


Snap points control the cross section creation as follows.

■ Assigned—Use assigned snap points for features whose exact location isknown. These are used only in segment cross sections.

■ Unassigned—Use unassigned snap points for features whose exact positionis not known. For example, in duct templates you always use unassignedsnap points. Also, for example, when you acquire a conductor whose exactlocation in the segment is not yet known, you can use an unassigned snappoint.

■ Position Number—Use Position Number to automatically place a point,or to specify relations to other components of the template, such as labelsor legend.

■ Labels—Use labels for annotations, such as the order number or a legend.You can use both the snap point label feature class or any cross sectionlabel feature class.

Segment and Duct ModelsFor segments and ducts, you can create cross sections of different types. Forexample, a segment cross section varies in the number of ducts, in the orderof the ducts, or the way the conductors are displayed in the cross section. Foreach type of cross section, several templates are available.

NOTE Cross sections for poles and towers are not supported in Topobase ElectricCE.

■ Segment Model—In the segment model, the template specifies themaximum number of ducts, and the order of ducts in the diagram, suchas 2x3, 2x2, or 6x3.

■ Duct Model—In the duct model, the template specifies the maximumnumber of conductors that can be placed in a duct. The number ofconductors matches the number snap points that are defined in theassigned template.

For example, when you create a segment, you specify the type of cross sectionby entering the appropriate segment model, such as “2*2 Ducts”. The segmentmodel specifies which template to use when you create the cross section.


Creating a Cross Section Template in Topobase ElectricCE

NOTE This procedure applies to Topobase Electric CE.

Topobase Electric CE provides a workflow for creating a cross section template.

To create a cross section template in Topobase Electric CE


2 In the Segment container, click More ➤ Create Cross Section Template.

3 Under Template Name, specify a name for the cross section template.

4 For CS Origin, click Digitize and specify the origin of the cross section.

5 In the Decoration container, click New. Click Point, Linestring, orPolygon.

6 Draw the cross section decoration geometry. Press Enter to complete eachfeature.

The cross section decoration features are displayed in the Decorationcontainer.




8 Define the snap points for the cross section.


9 Optional: In the Duct container, click New. Click snap points to createducts.

This creates a predefined duct. The ducts are displayed in the Ductcontainer. When you are finished creating ducts, press Enter. Note thatpredefined ducts cannot be deleted so create them only if you are certainthey are needed.



To assign the cross section template to a segment model

1 In the Document Explorer, under the topicStructural ➤ Pathway ➤ Segment, select the Segment Model feature class.

NOTE If you create the cross section template using the workflow (in theWorkflow Explorer), the cross section template is assigned to the segmentmodel automatically.


3 Click New Record, or filter the segment model you want to assignthe template to.


5 For the Template attribute, select the cross section template to assign tothe segment model.

Building an Array of Snap Points in TopobaseThe Topobase Electric CE workflow for creating a cross section templateprovides a tool for building a snap point array.

To build a snap point array

1 In the Create Cross Section Workflow, in the Snap Point container, clickNew ➤ Array.

The Create Cross Section Workflow area is replaced by the Array Settingarea.

2 For Array Structure, click Rectangular or Polar.

3 For Array Type, click Assigned or Unassigned.

For more information, see Topobase Electric CE Cross Section Snap Points(page 75).

4 Specify the rest of the array settings as desired for the array structure youare creating.

5 Click Create. Click in the map to draw the array.

6 Click Close to close the Array Setting area and return to the workflow.


Creating a Duct Template in Topobase Electric CECreate duct cross sections and associate them with segment cross sections.


2 In the Duct container, click More ➤ Create Duct Template.

3 Under Template Name, specify a name for the duct template.

4 For CS Origin, click Digitize and specify the origin of the duct.

A duct is inserted in the map at the origin point.




6 Define the snap points for the duct.



To assign the duct template to a duct model

1 In the Document Explorer, under the topic Structural ➤ Duct, select theDuct Model feature class.

NOTE If you create the duct template using the workflow (in the WorkflowExplorer), the duct template is assigned to the duct model automatically.


3 Click New Record, or filter the duct model you want to assign thetemplate to.

4 For the Template attribute, select the duct template to assign to the ductmodel.


Extending a Topobase Electric CE Cross SectionTemplateYou can extend an existing cross section template as needed. For example,say a segment has an existing cross section and you want to add a new snappoint to place new conductors or ducts, you can extend the existing crosssection. In this case, a new template is created and assigned to the segment.


2 In the Segment container, click More ➤ Extend Cross Section Template.

3 Under Choose Cross Section Template, select the cross section templateto extend.

Adding a Cross Section to a Segment in TopobaseElectric CEAfter you define a cross section template, you can add cross sections tosegments. The segment must have an associated cross section.

To add a cross section to a segment

1 Display the Electric Explorer.

2 From the profile list at the top of the Electric Explorer, select the profileto use, for example Underground.

Profiles are created in Topobase Administrator. Profiles control thecontainers that are visible in the Electric Explorer. For more information,see Setting Up Electric Explorer Profiles.

3 In the Segment container, click More ➤ Add New Cross Section.

4 Select the segment. Press Enter to insert the cross section template onthe segment or specify an origin point to position the cross section awayfrom the segment.

The segment must have an associated cross section model.

5 To position the cross section at an offset from the segment, specify theorigin point for the cross section.


6 To draw a leader line from the segment to the cross section, specify theanchor point to the leader legend line.

Creating Maintenance and Observation Records inTopobase Electric CE

To create maintenance and observation records in Topobase Electric CE, usethe Function menu in the feature class form.

If you start a create maintenance or create observation function from thefeature class form, be aware the current filter. You can apply the function toall features in the filter or to the current feature.

Creating Topobase Electric CE Maintenance RecordsYou can create and manage maintenance records for several feature classes.Use this function to add maintenance information to a feature. Maintenanceinformation is stored in the Maintenance feature class (EL_MAINTENANCE).

To create maintenance records

1 Open the form for the feature class for which you want to managemaintenance information, for example, Breaker.

2 Click Function ➤ Create Maintenance.

You can also click Create Maintenance on the Related Tables tab.

The Maintenance feature class form is opened with a new record. Note thatin the Details tab, the relation (FID_*) to the feature has already been assigned.

For example, in the General tab, enter the Maintenance Period, and theMaintenance Date. Then, the Next Maintenance Date is calculated by a featurerule. The Compute Next Maintenance Date rule calculates the date using themaintenance period and the date of the last maintenance:

MAINTENANCE_DATE + MAINTENANCE_PERIOD =MAINTENANCE_NEXT_DATE.

See also:


Creating Maintenance and Observation Records in Topobase Electric CE | 81

Creating Topobase Electric CE Observation RecordsYou can administer observations for several feature classes.

To add observations

1 Open the form for the feature class for which you want to add anobservation, for example, Breaker.

2 Click Function ➤ Create Observation.

You can also click Create Observation on the Related Tables tab.

The Observation feature class form is opened with a new record. Notethat in the Details tab, the relation (FID_*) to the feature has already beenassigned.

See also:


Using Topobase Electric CE WorkflowsWorkflows guide you through the most frequently performed tasks. Theycontain embedded information and options specific to the task.

■ Use the Electric Explorer to create electric network features. See Usingthe Topobase Electric Explorer (page 66).

■ Use the Workflow Explorer to start data analysis, data acquisition, report,

and template creation workflows.

Finding Connected Features


Use the Find Connected workflow to find all features that are topologicallyconnected to a specified start feature. Select a start feature and one or moreoptional stop features. The network is traced from the start feature to the stopfeatures.


The workflow is based on the Find Connected tracing template. For moreinformation, see Tracing Templates for Workflows. .

To find connected features



3 Under Client Workflows, Analysis workflows, click Find Connected. ClickExecute.

4 Click Select Start Feature. Select the start feature in the map.

Start and stop features must be part of a structural or electric topology.Use the tools in the Workflows pane to remove, to highlight or to zoomto the selected feature.

5 Click Select Stop Feature. Select one or more stop features in the map.


6 Under Direction To Trace, specify the flow direction to trace.

7 Click Include Stop Features to include the stop features in the tracesresults.

If you clear this checkbox, stop features are not included in the results.

8 Click OK to run the workflow.

When the workflow has finished, the features are selected in the map.All connected features are displayed in a tree view in the Workflows pane.Use the tools at the top of the Workflows pane to open the feature classform, highlight selected features, and zoom to selected features. See alsoTopobase Client User Guide, section Feature Explorer.

9 Enter REGEN on the command line to clear the selection in the map.

Using Topobase Electric CE Workflows | 83

Finding Feeders


Use the Find Feeders workflow to find the breaker or transformer that feedsthe selected feature. The workflow is designed to trace from the consumer tothe electricity source.

To find feeders



3 Under Client Workflows, Analysis workflows, click Find Feeders. ClickExecute.

4 Click Select Start Feature. Select the start feature (device or conductor) inthe map.



6 Under Feeder Type, click Breaker or Transformer.


When the workflow has finished, the feeder is highlighted in the mapand listed in a tree view in the Workflows pane. Use the tools at the topof the Workflows pane to open the feature class form, highlight selectedfeatures, and zoom to selected features. See also Topobase Client UserGuide, section Feature Explorer.


Finding Fed Devices



Use the Find Fed Devices workflow to find all features that are fed by aparticular device. The workflow is designed to trace from the electricity sourceto any consumer.

The Find Fed devices workflow needs a special placeholder(:startFeature.ATTR_NAME) which allows values of the startfeature. Theconditions of the find fed devices tracing template must be inactive becausethey cannot be used in a normal tracing and are activated temporarily duringthe workflow execution. They appear as invalid conditions. (TopobaseAdministrator only allows you to save inactive invalid condtions.) The templateitself should also be inactive because it is not used for normal tracing.

To find fed devices



3 Under Client Workflows, Analysis workflows, click Find Fed Devices.Click Execute.

4 Click Select Start Feature. Select the start feature (breaker or transformer)in the map.



6 Under Direction To Trace, specify the flow direction to trace.

7 Click Include Stop Features to include the stop features in the tracesresults.

If you clear this checkbox, stop features are not included in the results.


When the workflow has finished, the fed conductors and devices areselected in the map. All fed features are displayed in a tree view in theWorkflows pane. Use the tools at the top of the Workflows pane to openthe feature class form, highlight selected features, and zoom to selectedfeatures. See also Topobase Client User Guide, section Feature Explorer.

Using Topobase Electric CE Workflows | 85


Finding Open Devices


Use the Find Open Devices workflow to find all open devices in the network.

To find open devices



3 Under Client Workflows, Analysis workflows, click Find Open Devices.Click Execute.

4 Click Select Start Feature. Select the start feature in the map.


When the workflow has finished, the open devices are selected in themap. All open features are displayed in a tree view in the Workflows pane.Use the tools at the top of the Workflows pane to open the feature classform, highlight selected features, and zoom to selected features. See alsoTopobase Client User Guide, section Feature Explorer.


Creating a House Connection


Use the Create House Connection workflow to create a new house connectionin the network. You must specify a cross section template as part of theworkflow. To create a cross section template, see Creating a Cross SectionTemplate in Topobase Electric CE (page 77).


To create a house connection



3 Under Client Workflows, Acquisition workflows, click Create HouseConnection. Click Execute.

4 Click either of the following options:

■ Digitize Segment—Prompts you to draw the segment from the houseconnection to the network segment.

■ Straight segment—Automatically draws a straight segment from thehouse connection to the network segment.

5 Select the cross section template for the house connection segment.

6 Select the structure to create at the connection to the network segment.

This structure houses the device at the connection. A structure is required.

7 Under Conductor, click either of the following options:

■ Create Conductor Only In New Segment—Creates a conductor to thedevice at the connection.

■ Select End Position Of The Conductor—Prompts you to specify theend point of the conductor.

8 Specify the device to create at the connection to the network segment.

If you create the conductor only in the segment, you must specify thedevice to create at the connection.


Creating Station Internal Views



You can create a separate drawing to contain a internal view of a station. Forexample, you might have a substation where a conductor in a segment isconnected to an internal device (tranformer/breaker/fuse). The internal devicesare connected to each other with a conductor.

TIP As you work with the station internal feature, keep in mind that you areworking with two drawings, the main drawing and the station internal drawing.Be sure the click in the appropriate drawing to activate it before starting anoperation. For example, to digitize conductors in the station internal drawing,click to activate that drawing before starting your work.

To set the display model for the station internal drawing and to specify thesize of the station internal bounding box, see Setting Topobase Electric CEOptions (page 97).

To create a station internal view

1 Define and save two display models, one for the main .dwg and one forthe internal view .dwg.

For more information about display models, see Working with DisplayModels.

2 Click Home tab ➤ Display panel ➤ Display Model list. Select the displaymodel for the main .dwg.


4 In the main .dwg, create a structural feature to associate with the geometryin the internal view.

For example, draw a segment. Select the segment in the Segment containerin the Electric Explorer. In the Segment container, under Model, select across section model to associate with the segment. Create a conductorusing one of the snap points in the cross section.

For more information about cross sections, see Understanding TopobaseElectric CE Cross Sections (page 73).

5 At one end of the segment, draw the feature with which to associate theinternal view. For example, a substation.

Any structure features with the column FID_External_Structure can havean associated station internal.


6 In the Structure container, select the new substation and clickMore ➤ Station Internal.

A second .dwg is created for the station internal.

7 Optionally, select the Station Internal profile to display feature containersrelevant to creating a station internal.

8 In the station internal .dwg, zoom to view the station internal area.

For example, perform a Zoom Center using the center point of the stationinternal drawing.

You can adjust the size of this area in Document Options. For moreinformation, see Setting Topobase Electric CE Options (page 97).

9 In the station internal .dwg, draw the internal features, for example,conductors and devices.

TIP Start with a conductor that has a specific length (for example, 3 meters).If you start digitizing without a value you might create a conductor with asize that is inappropriate to the device you create later.

A template for station internal devices is provided. In the Device containerclick More ➤ Templates ➤ Internal and select a template.

Use multi conductors or standalone conductors to create station internalconductors. For more information, see Using Multi Conductors (page90).

10 In the Electric Explorer, select the feature that you want to associate witha feature in the station internal .dwg.

For example, in the Conductor container, select a conductor. Use Select

From Map or Select From Trace to populate the featurecontainer with the correct feature. You can then select this feature in thefeature container.

11 In the Electric Explorer, select the internal feature that you want toassociate with a feature in the external .dwg.

For example, in the Conductor container, select a conductor and in theDevice container, select a station internal device. Use Select From Map

or Select From Trace to populate the feature container withthe correct feature. You can then select this feature in the featurecontainer.


12 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Connect With Internal Device.

Alternatively, in the Device container, click More ➤ Connect WithExternal Conductor. You can also use drag and drop to make theconnection.

A logical connection is made between the external and internal features.

Using Multi Conductors


Multi conductors are a schematic way to display and label conductors.Conductors in a real world segment are only visible in the cross section. Usemulti conductors to display the conductors in a schematic view along a paththat is analogous to the actual segment (trench) where they are located. Usemulti conductors in station internals.

It is recommended that you use different multi conductor displays to representconductors of different voltages.

To set multi conductor options, see Setting Topobase Electric CE Options (page97).

To create multi conductors




3 In the Conductor container, click New ➤ Digitize Multi Conductors.

4 Specify the number of conductors to create.

5 Specify one of the following distribution layout styles:

■ Symmetric—Conductor lines are evenly distributed on either side ofthe axis.


■ Right—The first conductor is placed on the axis line. Other conductorsare placed on the right side of the axis. The right side is determinedbased on the direction in which you digitized the axis.

■ Left—The first conductor is placed on the axis line. Other conductorsare placed on the left side of the axis. The left side is determined basedon the direction in which you digitized the axis.

6 Draw the axis line by specifying points on the line. Press Enter to completethe axis line.

The multi conductors are drawn. Start and end style and offset arespecified in Document Options. For more information, see SettingTopobase Electric CE Options (page 97).

7 Press ESC to complete the operation.

Multi conductors are grouped visually but they are standalone conductors.

Offsetting Multi Conductors


Use this procedure to create a conductor along an existing conductor.

To offset multi conductors




3 In the Conductor container, click New ➤ Offset Conductor.

4 Select the reference conductor.

5 Click to specify the direction of the offset conductor relative to theoriginal conductor.

Using Multi Conductors | 91

A new conductor is created. Start and end style and offset are specifiedin Document Options. For more information, see Setting Topobase ElectricCE Options (page 97).


The new conductor has no attributes unless you created it using a LastUsed conductor. Right-click the conductor and click Show Form to enterattribute data.

Merging Multi Conductors


You can merge two existing conductors. In this procedure you select theconductors in turn. The attributes of the first conductor you select are appliedto merged conductor. The second conductor you select is deleted.

To merge multi conductors




3 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Merge Conductors.

4 Select the first conductor.

This is the base conductor. The second conductor will be merged withthis conductor and will be deleted.

5 Select the conductor to merge with the first conductor.


Extending Multi Conductors



When you have a set of multi conductors, you can extend some and continuethem in a different direction.

To extend multi conductors




3 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Extend Conductors.

4 Select the conductors to extend. Press Enter.

5 If the conductors end on a structure, you must specify the distributionlayout option to use. Specify one of the following distribution layoutstyles:

■ Symmetric—Conductor lines are evenly distributed on either side ofthe axis.

■ Right—The first conductor is placed on the axis line. Other conductorsare placed on the right side of the axis. The right side is determinedbased on the direction in which you digitized the axis.

■ Left—The first conductor is placed on the axis line. Other conductorsare placed on the left side of the axis. The left side is determined basedon the direction in which you digitized the axis.

6 Specify the start point and end point of the axis of the extension. PressEnter.

The axis cannot be parallel and should not start directly at the end pointof any of the selected conductors. Extended conductors are created onthe newly defined axis and merged with the existing one. The axis of theextension must intersect with the previously selected conductors toextend.



Labelling Multi Conductors


The Conductor container provides a way to label multi conductors. You mustdefine the label in Topobase Administrator, then quit and restart TopobaseClient.

To label multi conductors




3 In the Conductor container, click More ➤ Label Conductors.

4 Select the first conductor to label. Press Enter.

5 Specify the insertion point of the first label.

NOTE Place the insertion point outside the selected conductors so the labelsare in the proper order.

The conductors are labelled using the label definition and offset specifiedin Document Options. For more information, see Setting Topobase ElectricCE Options (page 97).


Creating Duct Areas for Multi Conductors


Multi conductors cannot be placed in ducts like real world undergroundconductors. They also do not have associated cross sections. You can use an


area polygon to represent the duct associated with the conductors. You cancreate the duct in either of the following two ways:

■ Digitize Duct Area—Creates a duct area polygon with the vertices youspecify. Optinally, you can select conductors to include in the duct. If youselect conductors, they are related to the duct.

■ Create Duct Area—Creates a duct area using the geometry of existingconductors (multiconductor or standalone conductor). When you useCreate Duct Area, you specify the conductors to include in the duct andthe start point and end point of the duct. The duct area is created aroundthe specified conductors. The conductors are related to the duct.Due to geometric limitations, sometimes this operation cannot create theduct area in the correct shape. If this happens, use the Digitize Duct Areaoperation to digitize the duct area manually.

When you create the duct area feature, a duct feature is also created. The ductarea is related to to the duct feature. The conductors you select during ductarea creation are related to the newly created duct.

The duct area is stored in the Duct Area structural feature class. If the ductarea is not visible in your map, use the AutoCAD Map 3D Data Connect toload the EL_DUCT_AREA layer. For more information, see Bringing In FeaturesFrom Topobase.

To create a duct area




3 In the Duct container, do either of the following:

■ Click New ➤ Digitize Duct Area to create a standalone duct areapolygon.

■ Click New ➤ Create Duct Area. To generate a duct area polygon basedon selected conductors.If you receive the message, “The geometry of the selected conductorcannot be used to create a Duct Area”, use Digitized Duct Area tocreate the duct.


4 Select the conductors contained in the duct. Press Enter.

This step is optional if you chose Digitize Duct Area. If you selectconductors, a relationship is created between the duct and the childconductors within the duct. If you do not want to create this relationship,press Enter to skip conductor selection.

5 Do either of the following:

■ If you clicked New ➤ Digitize Duct Area, specify the vertices of theduct area polygon. Press c to close the polygon.

■ If you clicked New ➤ Create Duct Area, specify the start and endpointsof the duct.

TIP Be sure to click start and end points that are on the inner sides of thetwo outer conductors, not the outer sides. This way the duct area can begenerated around the outer sides of the conductors correctly.

A Duct area is created using the outer conductors and the start andendpoints you specify.


Creating a Standalone Conductor


Conductors in a real world segment are only visible in the cross section. Youcan create a single instance of a conductor when using multi conductors orin station internal views.

To create a standalone conductor




3 In the Conductor container, click New ➤ Digitize Conductors.


4 Specify points to draw the conductor. Press Enter when you are finished.


Setting Topobase Electric CE Options


There are several options you can set to control the behavior of the ElectricExplorer, multi conductors, and station internals.

To set Topobase Electric CE options


2 In the Document Options dialog box, in the left pane, click the ElectricExplorer CE node.

3 In the Electric Explorer Options area, set any of the following options:

■ General: Specify how many features to retain in the Last Used featurelists. Specify whether to show a form automatically upon featurecreation. Specify the amount of time to pause before moving to thenext cross section when creating conductors.

■ "Underground" Feature Containers: Specify the display of Undergroundprofile feature containers.

■ Station Internal: Specify the display model to use for the stationinternal drawing. Define the default station internal bounding box.Display Model: Use Current One On Main Map applies the samedisplay model in the station internal drawing as in the main drawing.Use Outer Resource specifies a different display model file (.tbdm) touse for the station internal dwg.

Station Internal Size: The station internal of a structure has a sizelimitation. If you open a station internal and zoom out several times,you will observe a black square which indicates the border of thestation internal. You cannot draw outside this square. The StationInternal Size setting specifies the height and width of the stationinternal border.

Setting Topobase Electric CE Options | 97

4 In the Document Options dialog box, in the left pane, click the ElectricCE node. In the Multi Conductor area, set any of the following options:

DescriptionMulti Conductor Option

Specifies the layout style of the conductorconnection to the start or end feature.

Start/Endpoint Connection Layout

Specifies the length of the offset or radiusin either of these two layout settings.

Default/Offset Radius

Specifies the default offset between multiconductors.

Offset Between Conductors

Specifies the offset from the outer conduct-ors to the border of the duct area.

Offset Between Duct And Conductor

Specifies the label to use.Label Definition

Specifies the offset between multi conduct-or labels.

Offset Between Labels

Understand and Work with the Topobase Electric CEData Model

Topobase Electric Central Europe is based on the Utility data model whichstores geometry and attribute data separately. The EL_POINT and EL_LINEfeature classes represent the points and lines that make up the electric network.EL_POINT features are electrical features such as breakers, switches,transformers and other electrical devices. EL_LINE features are the linestringgeometries that represents conductors. These features carry the electric currentand control its behavior.

EL_STR_POINT and EL_STR_LINE represent the points and lines that make upthe structural network. These are structural features such as segments, poles,manholes for trenches, and so forth. They are the structural elements thathouse the electrical devices.

EL_CONN and EL_STR_CONN are the tables that store connectivity and flowinformation. We strongly recommend that you do not modify these tables.


Topobase Electric labels reference label text from the attribute feature class.To obtain the geometry, they reference the associated geometry feature class(EL_POINT, EL_LINE, EL_STR_POINT or EL_STR_LINE).

Exploring the Topobase Electric CE Data ModelUse the Topobase data model administrator to explore the data model withits topics, feature classes, topologies, and feature rules.

To explore the Topobase Electric CE data model

1 Start Topobase Administrator and open the Electric CE workspace.

2 In the Administrator Explorer, expand the workspace and the document.

3 Click Data Model.

The Data Model Administrator displays the feature class topics, domains, andtopologies in the Electric data model. Expand the topics to view the featureclasses provided for each topic. For more information, see Data ModelAdministrator Introduction.

Administration Feature ClassesThis topic contains the feature classes that store and manage contacts,contracts, and customer and manufacturer information, and location. Inaddition, the Administration topic includes a polygon feature class formanaging administrative areas such as cities, counties, or districts.


TypeFeature class

EL_ADMIN_AREA. Man-ages the polygon that

PolygonAdministrative Area

represents a region of in-terest such as a city,country, or district. Thisfeature class has a pre-defined label: EL_AD-MIN_AREA_TBL

EL_CONTACT. Managescontact information such

AttributeContact

Understand and Work with the Topobase Electric CE Data Model | 99


TypeFeature class

as owner, concessionaires,installer, operator, ormaintenance person. TheContact form is linked tomany other feature classforms using relations. Toview the list of relatedtables, display the Con-tact form and click theRelated Tables tab. Fromthe Contact form you canaccess several electric net-work features using thebuttons on the RelatedTables tab. For example,select a maintenancecompany and find allelectric network featuresit is responsible for.

EL_CONTRACT. Managescontract information re-

AttributeContract

lated to an electric fea-ture. For example, youmight use the Contractfeature class to manage ajoint use agreement for astructure such as a pole,that is shared betweentwo utility companies.

EL_CUSTOMER_INFO.Manages customer inform-

AttributeCustomer Info

ation associated with aservice point or meter.

EL_LOCATION. Manageslocation information such

AttributeLocation

as street name for electricfeatures. From the Loca-tion form you can access



TypeFeature class

electric network featuresand customer informationusing the link buttons onthe Related Tables tab.For example, you can se-lect a location and find allcustomers associated withthis location. This featureclass has a predefined la-bel: EL_LOCATION_TBL

EL_MANUFACTURER.Manages manufacturer

AttributeManufacturer

data for materials and as-semblies.

Circuit Feature ClassThis topic contains one attribute feature class that stores and manages circuitinformation. A circuit is a group of connected electric devices and conductors.All device and conductor feature classes are related to a circuit (FID_CIRCUIT).A circuit starts at an origin device such as a circuit breaker (EL_BREAKER.FID).



EL_CIRCUIT. Identifies a groupof connected electric devices and

AttributeCircuit

conductors. Every element in thecircuit must be associated withthe circuit using the Circuit(FID_Circuit) attribute in theform for each element.Related table: EL_BREAKER. TheDevice Origin attribute in theCircuit form links to theEL_BREAKER table and specifiesthe device that feeds the circuit.


Conductor Feature ClassesThis topic contains the conductor feature classes. A conductor is used to carryelectrical energy from point to point.



EL_CONDUCTOR. Carries electric en-ergy from point to point.

AttributeConductor

Related tables: EL_CONTRACT,EL_DUCT_CONDUCTOR, EL_LINE,EL_FIBER, EL_OBSERVATION,EL_GROUND, EL_MAINTENANCE,EL_MARKER, EL_SEGMENT_CONDUCT-OR, EL_SUPPORT_CONDUCTORThis feature class has a predefined la-bel: EL_CONDUCTOR_TBL

EL_CONDUCTOR_MODEL. Stores in-formation about the conductor modelsuch as manufacturer and material.

AttributeConductor Model

EL_FIBER. Use this feature class tomanage telecommunication fibers if

AttributeFiber

they are included with Electric assets.A fiber is a very thin, flexible, glass orplastic strand along which largequantities of information can be trans-mitted in the form of light pulses. Aconductor can contain several fibres.Fibers are not part of the electricalnetwork.

Conductors are related to the structural network. Conductors can be locatedin several segments or in several ducts. A segment can contain several ductsand a duct can contain several conductors.

NOTE Use the Electric Explorer to manage conductors.


Construct Feature ClassesConstruction (COGO) elements (lines, points, and text) appear temporarilywith the help of Construct feature classes. These are removed from the drawingas soon as you save the new elements and quit or close the dialog boxes.

NOTE Use Document Settings in Topobase Administrator to add the Constructfeature classes.

Make sure that the newly created feature classes are visible in the selectedexplorer group and that an appropriate stylization has been defined in theDisplay Model.

Cross Section Feature ClassesThis topic contains the feature classes for cross section templates. They storethe geometry components that are used to display cross sections in the map.

NOTE Use the Electric Explorer to create and edit cross section templates. Do notmodify these forms directly.

Use the Display Manager to style the cross section components. For moreinformation on styling features, see Working with Display Models.


EL_CS_ORIGIN. Stores the originpoint of the cross section.

Point geometryCS Origin

Related table: EL_SEGMENT. Thecross section is related to a seg-ment (EL_SEGMENT.FID).

EL_CS_DUCT. Stores the pointsthat represent ducts in the crosssection.

Point geometryCS Duct

Related tables: EL_CS_ORIGIN,EL_SEGMENT_DUCT, EL_SNAP-POINT. The duct is related to thecross section (EL_CS_ORI-GIN.FID).



EL_CS_CONDUCTOR. Stores thepoints that represent the con-ductors in a cross section.

Point geometryCS Conductor

Related tables: EL_CS_ORIGIN,EL_CS_DUCT, EL_SEG-MENT_CONDUCTOR,EL_SNAPPOINT. The conductoris related to the cross section(EL_CS_ORIGIN.FID).

EL_CS_DECORATION. Storesstyle information for the cross

Point, polygon, or linegeometry

CS Decoration

section, for example, a borderline.The cross section decoration isrelated to the cross section(EL_CS_ORIGIN.FID).

EL_CS_DECORATION_L. Storesthe line that leads from the cross

Line geometryCS Decoration L

section origin to the segment.This line is created automaticallywhen you place a cross sectionthat is offset from a segment.The decoration line is related tothe cross section (EL_CS_ORI-GIN.FID).

EL_SNAPPOINT. Stores the snappoint locations for the cross sec-tions.

Point geometrySnap point

Snap points are related to thecross section (EL_CS_ORI-GIN.FID).

Device Feature ClassesThis topic contains the device feature classes that make up the electric network.The electric network also includes the Conductor feature class. Most device


feature classes also have predefined label and model feature classes as well.All devices are related to a circuit (FID_CIRCUIT).


EL_ATTACHMENT_DEVICE. An attach-ment related to a support. Related

AttributeAttachment Device

tables: EL_CONTRACT, EL_OBSERVA-TION, EL_MAINTENANCE, EL_MARKER

EL_BREAKER. A protection device thatopens in an overcurrent condition to

AttributeBreaker

protect the circuit. A breaker is usuallyinstalled in substations at the start of acircuit.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_BUS_BAR. A heavy conductor usedto collect, carry, and distribute electriccurrents.

AttributeBus Bar


EL_CAPACITOR. An electric circuit ele-ment used to store charge temporarily.

AttributeCapacitor


EL_CURRENT_CONVERTER. Convertscurrent usually when a current measure-ment is required.Related tables: EL_CONTRACT, EL_OB-SERVATION, EL_MAINTENANCE,EL_MARKER, EL_GROUND.

AttributeCurrent Converter

EL_CURRENT_REGULATOR. Maintainsthe current on the network within agiven tolerance.

AttributeCurrent Regulator


EL_DISCHARGER. Controls excessvoltage.

AttributeDischarger



Related tables: EL_CONTRACT, EL_OB-SERVATION, EL_MAINTENANCE,EL_MARKER, EL_GROUND

EL_FAULT_THROWER. An earth switchthat is closed by local protection

AttributeFault Thrower

equipment on an energized circuit un-der fault conditions, remotely trippingthe circuit-breaker(s) controlling thecircuit.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE, EL_GROUND

EL_FUSE. A protection device thatopens to protect the upstream circuit

AttributeFuse

sections from faults occurring down-stream from the fuse. The fuse openswhen the operating current exceedsthe cutout current.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_CON-TACT_CONCESSIONAIRE, EL_CON-TACT_INSTALLER, EL_CONTACT_MAIN-TENANCE, EL_CONTACT_OPERATOR,EL_CONTACT_OWNER, EL_LOCATION,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_GENERATOR. Converts mechanicalenergy into electrical energy.

AttributeGenerator


EL_GROUND. Grounds electricalequipment to earth.

AttributeGround




EL_ISOLATOR. Separates a component,circuit, or system from a source ofelectricity.

AttributeIsolator


EL_JUNCTION. Links two or more con-ductors.

AttributeJunction


EL_LIGHT. A street light.AttributeLightRelated tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_MANU-FACTURER, EL_STRUCTURE

EL_LIGHTNING_ARRESTER. Protects theelectric network from lightning.

AttributeLightning Arrester


EL_METER. Measures the quantity andrate of electricity through a section ofline.

AttributeMeter


EL_MINOR_CONSUMER. Minor powerconsumer like mobile antenna.

AttributeMinor Consumer

Related tables: EL_CONTRACT, EL_OB-SERVATION, EL_MAINTENANCE,EL_MARKER, EL_GROUND

EL_MOTOR. Converts electrical energyinto mechanical energy.

Point geometryMotor




EL_RECLOSER. A protection device thatdetects downstream faults and inter-rupts the faulted section.

AttributeRecloser


EL_REGULATOR. Maintains the currenton the network within a given toler-ance.

AttributeRegulator


EL_RISER. The connection betweenunderground and overhead networks.

AttributeRiser


EL_SECONDARY_RELAY. Monitors ameasurement system.

AttributeSecondary Relay

Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE, EL_GROUND

EL_SECTIONALIZER. A protective devicethat automatically isolates faulted sec-

AttributeSectionalizer

tions of a circuit. Because it does nothave fault-interrupting capability, asectionalizer is used with a backupdevice such as a breaker or a recloser.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_SERVICE_POINT. The boundarybetween the network and the custom-

AttributeService Point

er. A service point may have manycustomers associated to it. The sym-bology of the service point reflects thetype of customers fed by the networkat that point.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE



EL_SLEEVE. Repairs or connects cable.AttributeSleeveRelated tables: EL_CIRCUIT, EL_CON-TACT_CONCESSIONAIRE, EL_CON-TACT_INSTALLER, EL_CONTACT_MAIN-TENANCE, EL_CONTACT_OPERATOR,EL_CONTACT_OWNER, EL_LOCATION,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_SWITCH. Opens or closes to changethe load distribution or the configura-tion of the network.

AttributeSwitch


EL_TERMINATION. Terminates a looseend of a conductor.

AttributeTermination


EL_TRANSFORMER. Converts the gen-erator's low-voltage electricity to higher

AttributeTransformer

voltage levels for transmission to theload center, such as a city or factory.Related tables: EL_CIRCUIT,EL_STRUCTURE

EL_VOLTAGE_CONVERTER. Convertsvoltage and is usually used when avoltage measurement is required.

AttributeVoltage Converter

Related tables: EL_CONTRACT, EL_OB-SERVATION, EL_MAINTENANCE,EL_MARKER, EL_GROUND.


Dimension Feature ClassesThis topic contains dimension feature classes for storing dimension lines,labels, and points.

For more information about setting up dimensioning, see Document Settings.For more information about using dimensioning, see Adding Dimensions.

Event Feature ClassesThis topic contains the feature classes for events and the associatedobservations and maintenance information related to a feature.


EL_EVENT. Stores events suchas inspections including event

AttributeEvent

type and contact information.An event can be related to sev-eral observations and an obser-vation can be related to severalmaintenance activities. For ex-ample, for a damage event, theobservation might be inspection



information and the mainten-ance might be repair informa-tion.Related table: EL_CONTACT

EL_MAINTENANCE. Storesmaintenance work such as

AttributeMaintenance

washing, inspection, or functionchecking. Maintenance can berelated to an observation.Related tables: EL_CONTACT,EL_FEATURE, EL_OBSERVATION

EL_OBSERVATION. Stores obser-vation activities that apply to a

AttributeObservation

feature, for example, meterreading. Observations can berelated to an event. You can usea point, line, or polygon to in-dicate a location in the map.Related tables: EL_CONTACT,EL_EVENT, EL_FEATURE

In the feature class forms, use the Reference buttons to show the relatedfeatures. For example, in the Event form, click the Observation Reference


button to show all observations that are

related to the current event, or use the Projection button to show allobservations that are related to the events in the filter. Use feature functionsto create maintenance records.

See also:

■ Creating Topobase Electric CE Maintenance Records (page 81)

■ Creating Topobase Electric CE Observation Records (page 82)

Miscellaneous Feature Class

MarkerThis topic contains marker feature classes. A marker can be a sign or a concretemonument installed either directly above or immediately adjacent tounderground lines, bends or fittings to indicate the presence of electricity.Markers are not part of the electrical network.

You can assign a marker to a devices.


EL_MARKER. Stores marker information.This feature class has a predefined label.Markers are related to devices.

Point, line, or poly-gon geometry

Marker

Related to EL_CONTRACT, EL_OBSERVA-TION, EL_MAINTENANCE


Structural Feature ClassesThis topic contains the structural feature classes that make up the structuralnetwork plus some additional structural feature classes. The Structural_CONNfeature class stores flow and connectivity information for the logical topology.


EL_ACCESS_POINT. A structure thatprovides access to electric facilities.

AttributeAccess Point

EL_ANCHOR. An anchor associated with astructure. This feature class includes a pre-

AttributeAnchor

defined label feature class (EL_AN-CHOR_TBL). Not included in the structuralnetwork.

EL_ANTENNA. An anchor associated witha structure. This feature class includes a

AttributeAntenna

predefined label feature class (EL_AN-TENNA_TBL). Not included in the structur-al network.

EL_ARRESTOR. An anchor associated witha structure. This feature class includes a

AttributeArrestor

predefined label feature class (EL_AR-RESTOR_TBL). Not included in the structur-al network.

EL_CONDUCTOR_HOLD. An element thatsupports the conductor against wind.

PointConductor Hold

EL_CONNECTOR. This feature class con-nects two segments. It includes a pre-

Point geometryConnector

defined label feature class (EL_CONNECT-OR_TBL).

EL_DUCT. A duct contains one or moreconductors and is used to protect the

Line geometryDuct

conductors when placed underground.EL_DUCT_AREA is used for ducts in multiconductor mode. EL_DUCT_CONDUCTORmanages the connections between ductsand conductors. EL_DUCT_DUCT manages



the connections between ducts withinducts. EL_DUCT_MARKER marks the endof a duct.

EL_FEEDER_PILLAR. A metal cabinet withopening doors. This feature class includes

Point geometryFeeder Pillar

a predefined label feature class (EL_FEED-ER_PILLAR_TBL).

EL_FUSE_BANK. This feature class includesa predefined label feature class(EL_FUSE_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryFuse Bank

EL_GUY. A wire that supports a pole. It actsagainst the tension provoked by the cables

Line geometryGuy

attached to the pole. Not included in thestructural network.

EL_HANDHOLE. A small underground ac-cess point. This feature class includes a

Point geometryHandhole

predefined label feature class (EL_HAND-HOLE_TBL).

EL_INTERNAL_CELL.Polygon geometryInternal Cell

EL_JUNCTION_CABINET. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_JUNCTION_CABINET_TBL).

Point geometryJunction Cabinet

EL_LINK_BOX. A sunken box with a con-crete lid at ground level. This feature class

Point geometryLink Box

includes a predefined label feature class(EL_LINK_BOX_TBL).

EL_LV_BOARD. LV Distribution busbarmounted on the substation wall. This fea-


LV Board

ture class includes a predefined label fea-ture class (EL_LV_BOARD_TBL).

EL_MANHOLE. An underground accesspoint. This feature class includes a pre-

Point geometryManhole



defined label feature class (EL_MAN-HOLE_TBL).

EL_PAD. A structure that is made of pouredconcrete, laid over a gravel base, upon

Point geometryPad

which electric facilities (most commonlytransformers) are placed. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_PAD_TBL).

EL_PATHWAY. This feature class stores in-formation about the segment feature

AttributePathway

classes in the electric network. Use theElectric Explorer to manage the network.Do not edit these tables manually.

EL_PEDESTAL. This feature class includes apredefined label feature class (EL_PEDES-TAL_TBL).

Point geometryPedestal

EL_POLE. Supports overhead devices in theelectrical system. This feature class includes

Point geometryPole

a predefined label feature class(EL_POLE_TBL).

EL_STRUCTURE_DECO. Not included inthe structural network. This feature class is


Structure Decora-tion

used for visualization of structural details,such as a footprint.

EL_SUBSTATION. A walled structure wherevoltage transformation takes place. The

Point geometrySubstation

substation itself is not connected to theelectric network. It is part of the structuralnetwork. This feature class includes a pre-defined label feature class (EL_SUBSTA-TION_TBL).

EL_TOWER. A special type of pole structure,characterized by its size and construction

Point geometryTower

type. It usually supports high voltage con-ductors. This feature class includes a pre-



defined label feature class(EL_TOWER_TBL).

EL_TRANSFORMER_BANK. This featureclass includes a predefined label featureclass (EL_TRANSFORMER_BANK_TBL).

Point geometryTransformer Bank

EL_TS_STATION. This feature class includesa predefined label feature class(EL_TS_STATION_TBL).

Point geometryTransformer Sta-tion

EL_VAULT. A walled structure that can beunderground or on a slab and which

Point geometryVault

houses electric devices. This feature classincludes a predefined label feature class(EL_VAULT_TBL).

EL_WARNING_LIGHT. Warning light asso-ciated with a structure. This feature class

Point geometryWarning Light

includes a predefined label feature class(EL_WARNING_LIGHT_TBL). Not includedin the structural network.

Template Feature ClassesThis topic contains attribute tables that store the template definitions.

IMPORTANT Do not edit these tables manually. They are managed by theapplication, for example when you author a template using Topobase Client.


TB_FEATURE_GROUP. Stores thegrouping of the template features.

InternalFeature Group

When a template is instantiated, anew record is added.

TB_FEATURE_GROUP_FEATURE.Stores the relation between an in-

InternalFeature GroupFeature

stantiated feature and a feature



group, indicating that a feature ispart of an instantiated template.

See also:

■ Working with Templates

Utility Feature ClassesThe Electric_CONN feature class stores flow and connectivity information forthe electric topology. The Structural_CONN feature class stores connectivityinformation for the structural topology. We strongly recommend that you donot modify these tables.


118

Glossary

conductor Conductors (cables) are used to carry electrical energy from pointto point. Conductors are part of the electrical network that represents theelectrical logic. Basically the electric network is independent of the spatial,geographic location of the conductors.

duct A duct contains one or more conductors. It is used to protect theconductors that are placed underground.

Electric explorer Explorer to manage electric network features. Easy way toshow relations between the superior and inferior features such as segments,ducts, and conductors.

pathway A pathway is a container for segments. It can contain one or moresegments.

segment A segment is where conductors and ducts are placed underground.Several segments can form a pathway. Segments are part of the structuralnetwork consisting of segments and other structural objects such as tower,pole, substation, or transformer bank.

template An electric template is an arrangement of recurrent features. Thearrangement includes feature attributes, geometry and connectivity. Usingtemplates you can place a feature arrangement in one single step.

Glossary | 119

120

Index

U

user interfacecustomizing electric explorer 7, 67

Index | 121

122

Documents

Autodesk Topobase Electric User Guide