Easily add data to objects

InfraCAD 8.0 is available. The NLCS application is again considerably faster and a good number of tools have been improved. But especially the availability of the NLCS Library 5.0 and the addition of NLCS object data and Entity Data Viewer stand out. With this new NLCS functionality, data can be added to NLCS objects, and managed. With this, InfraCAD is clearly setting its sights on future developments.

In order to make the NLCS ready for the future, a lot of hard work is being done in working groups to reach agreements with network operators about, among other things, the inclusion of data in the NLCS library and the possibilities for exchanging them. The goal is to ensure a good link with, for example, data sources (BGT, Klic reports, GWSW) and GIS applications.

NLCS object data

Meanwhile, the developers at Arkance Systems have not been idle. InfraCAD 8.0 with NLCS object data now has a fully integrated application in the NLCS module, with which tables of data can be added to Entities in a drawing itself.

The NLCS object data is similar to Object Data in AutoCAD Map 3D or the Property Sets in Autodesk Civil 3D. However, the major difference with InfraCAD is that the defined tables can be directly linked to the NLCS objects; all definitions of the tables as well as the table links are stored in the NLCS library.

Another important advantage is that AutoCAD Map 3D or Civil 3D are not needed. InfraCAD 8.0 suffices with AutoCAD to save all object data, together with the table definitions, in an NLCS drawing and to read it out again at lightning speed. The selection lists used when entering data are also preserved in the drawing.

InfraCAD's dialog screens are optimized to define and link tables to NLCS objects. Using the drawing functions of the NLCS module and the functions on the NLCS object data toolbar, the data can be incorporated into the drawing and easily managed. In the property screen, any field of a table can be quickly edited.

Preferences and Positions

By applying Preferences, you have the ability to preset the values of fields, for example, for a specific Symbol.

During drawing, this preferred data is added to the new Entity. Another useful feature is the ability to define Positions, to include the values of fields in the layer name. When drawing an Entity or modifying the associated data, a layer name is then immediately compiled to match this data, including the properties such as color and line type of the matching NLCS object.

Exchange format

Work is underway within the working groups to define an exchange format for this data. InfraCAD now has all the functionality to import the data from, and export it to data files that can be exchanged with third parties together with the drawing. In this way, the data are also available to applications that cannot read the data in the drawing directly.

Entity Data Viewer

To complement the NLCS Object Viewer, InfraCAD now has the Entity Data Viewer. A new feature that provides an overview of all the unique data of each Entity in the drawing. By searching through this data, specific Entities can be quickly brought into view.

 Also, all data or a selection of it can be exported to a file. Examples include length, area, data from Attributes and Dynamic Properties, as well as all NLCS object data. The exported file is excellent for importing into ERP software and calculation programs, where the data can be converted into valuable information.

Applications

The NLCS library does not currently contain NLCS object data. But InfraCAD has every possibility to maximize the use of data. For example, for OV (Public Lighting) a Project library can easily be compiled, with tables containing data such as manufacture, type of luminaire and phase connection.

Or a Project library for planting plans containing all the necessary Symbols and Geometry, with a table for the characteristics of a tree or plant such as Latin name, flower color, flowering time, height and number.

NLCS 5.0

With InfraCAD 8.0, the NLCS library 5.0 is now also available, in which major changes have been made compared to the previous version. For example, by aligning with the BGT and GWSW as well as rearranging the main groups, many NLCS objects have been added, moved or dropped. But also many names of shadings and line types are different. Henk Loonstra, developer at Arkance Systems explains: "These are good improvements, but users are still somewhat surprised by the many changes. InfraCAD, however, with the already present NLCS Check and Repair function, offers a handy tool with which existing NLCS drawings can easily be upgraded."

The changes may also affect the User library. Therefore, InfraCAD has added the option to display a migration report when converting this library, with changes that may affect it. Handy!

New licensing mechanism

There has also been a major modernization for managing InfraCAD licenses. Indeed, as of InfraCAD 8.0, all InfraCAD Suite applications use Arkance Systems' new (cloud-based) Holixa licensing mechanism. Loonstra: "Holixa has pleasant advantages for our customers. They can use all applications with a single login and manage the licenses themselves. And because the licenses are managed in the cloud, working from home or on location is much easier. Also, 'named user' as 'concurrent user' licenses are still possible." Arkance Systems has now started transferring clients to the new licensing system.

About Arkance Systems

Arkance Systems helps organizations in their digital transition by improving processes, optimizing (chain) collaborations and stimulating data-driven processes. It does so in the construction, infrastructure and manufacturing industries. To this end, Arkance Systems develops its own IP and offers software, hardware, services and training. Arkance Systems strives for strategic partnerships and deploys its international expertise for local solutions.