Overview
This lecture explains how to use network diagrams within ArcGIS Pro for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) in utility networks, focusing on identifying and resolving data connectivity and association errors in substations and distribution equipment.
Introduction to QA/QC with Network Diagrams
- QA/QC ensures high data quality for GIS utility networks used in asset management and engineering.
- Network diagrams help visualize and analyze feature relationships and connectivity.
- ArcGIS Pro tools assist in exploring, correcting, and validating associations in network data.
Quality Assurance on Substations
- Use network diagrams to identify missing or extra features within substations.
- Generate network diagrams using the ExpandContainers template to show all feature associations.
- Arrange diagram and network maps side-by-side for easier comparison.
- Investigate and select isolated or unexpected junctions using diagram features.
- Delete invalid containment associations directly from the Modify Associations pane.
- Validate and save edits to clean dirty areas and update the network topology.
- Update diagrams to reflect topology changes and ensure real-world accuracy.
Identifying and Fixing Connectivity and Containment Issues
- Use attribute queries to locate missing or misconnected equipment (e.g., circuit breakers).
- Add or correct connectivity associations between disconnected features as needed.
- Add missing content, such as substation bays, by updating containment associations.
- Confirm data accuracy by reviewing related contents after making corrections.
Quality Assurance on Distribution Equipment
- Apply different diagram layouts, like Force Directed, to reveal association issues.
- Use custom diagram templates for repeated QA/QC workflows.
- Modify diagram templates in ModelBuilder to automate layout and rule application.
- Regenerate diagrams using updated templates to simplify problem identification.
Identifying and Correcting Streetlight and Pole Issues
- Use diagrams to find poles lacking attached streetlights or vice versa.
- Update structural attachments in the utility network between poles and lights.
- Use the Extend Diagram tool to add expected attached elements for validation.
- Validate, save edits, and update diagrams to ensure corrections are displayed.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Network Diagram — A visual representation of feature relationships and connectivity in a utility network.
- Containment Association — A data link showing which features are contained within another (e.g., bay in substation).
- Connectivity Association — A data link representing direct network connections between two features.
- Dirty Area — A temporary indicator showing areas of the network with edits not yet validated in the topology.
- Topology Validation — The process of confirming all network connections and associations are accurate and clean.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Download and explore the provided ArcGIS Pro project package for hands-on practice.
- Practice generating, updating, and customizing network diagrams for your organization’s utility network.
- Complete all steps to identify, fix, and validate all containment and connectivity issues.
- Save edits frequently and always validate the network topology after making changes.