Process Flow Diagram Creator
Technical Documentary and Implementation Guide
Introduction
The Process Flow Diagram (PFD) Creator is a web-based application designed for chemical and biochemical engineers to design and visualize process flows. This documentary describes the technical implementation, features, and usage of the application.
Our Vision: To provide engineers with a powerful yet intuitive tool for creating professional-grade process flow diagrams with advanced simulation capabilities.
Key Features
Interactive Design
Create diagrams using our intuitive drag-and-drop interface with intelligent connections.
Chemical & Bioprocess Units
Standard engineering units and specialized bioprocessing equipment available.
Advanced Properties
Customize every aspect of your diagram with detailed property controls.
Export Options
Save your work as images or project files for later editing.
Technical Overview
Architecture
The PFD Creator is implemented as a web application using modern technologies:
- Frontend: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript with Canvas API for rendering
- Backend: Django framework with PostgreSQL database
- Authentication: Django's built-in authentication system
- Project Storage: Database and file system for user projects
Core Components
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| FlowchartElement | Represents a PFD element like a reactor, vessel, etc. with properties and connection points |
| Connection | Represents a flow connection between two elements with routing and labeling |
| FlowchartDiagram | Main controller class that manages elements, connections, and user interactions |
| PropertyManager | Handles property editing and validation for diagram elements |
Bioprocess Features
The PFD Creator includes specialized features for bioprocess engineering:
Bioprocess Element Types
- Fermenter: For microbial fermentation processes
- Bioreactor: For cellular culture processes
- ABE Process: Acetone-Butanol-Ethanol fermentation
- IBE Process: Isopropanol-Butanol-Ethanol fermentation
- Bioseparator: For biomass separation
- Filtration Units: For filtering biological materials
Specialized Properties
Each bioprocess element contains properties specific to bioprocessing:
- Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels
- Microbial strains and cell densities
- Product yields and recovery rates
- Agitation speeds and aeration rates
Usage Guide
Creating Elements
Drag elements from the toolbar onto the canvas. Position them as needed.
Connecting Elements
Click the "Connect Points" button, then click on a connection point (red for input, green for output) and drag to another compatible connection point.
Editing Properties
Select any element or connection to edit its properties in the properties panel.
Saving Your Work
Click the "Save Diagram" button to save your project. You can access your saved projects from the dashboard.
Future Development
We're continuously improving the PFD Creator. Here are some features planned for future versions:
- Advanced simulation capabilities with real-time feedback
- Material and energy balance calculations
- Integration with process simulation software
- Collaborative editing features
- Performance improvements for large diagrams
- Additional element libraries for specialized industries