Problems and technologies of remote access to unified information space of urban pipeline systems

Abstract

The paper presents the experience of applying modern information technologies while operating the urban pipeline systems. Consideration is given to the main problems interfering with ensuring the efficient modes of pipeline systems operation that are caused by uncertainty and inconsistency of information on the actual condition of the system that, in turn, are originated by different technological factors. The paper also pays attention to the lack of continuity, inconsistency and duplication of data in different software packages (accounting, billing, resources planning and management, geo-information systems, SAPR, SCADA, digital models of pipeline systems, etc.) used by companies, which complicates operation of pipeline systems. The paper discusses advantages of development and introduction of unified information space in a company, related problems of its updating, and methods of remote access to it. Causes originating this problem are analyzed and ways for its solution are searched for from the standpoint of the latest information technologies. For solving this problem the authors propose specialized software that implies active use of wireless communication channels, mobile devices, etc. This mobile information package is briefly described as a prototype intended for remote access to unified information space of a company and to a digital model of the pipeline system in particular using mobile communication devices. Considered are the advantages of this development and scenarios of its application.