In this section we will learn how to set up a project in PVFARM, once the DXF or KML file has been created in Civil 3D, CAD, or Google Earth/GIS (as it applies). Picking up after you've created a new project, you can begin the process of setting up the project by following these steps:
1. Import Boundaries
Navigate to the Import menu and browse to find your DXF/KML/KMZ file. (there is a sample boundary file at the bottom of this article if needed for practice.)
For more info on how to get a boundary file see this article:
2. Import and Verification of Boundaries
To verify that the boundaries were imported correctly, first ensure there were no error messages during import.
Next, do a visual comparison by doing a side-by-side comparison with the originating platform or even a screenshot to ensure all boundaries you expected to import are present in PVFARM.
You can zoom using "2" and "F" to get all the boundaries in view
Check the scale of the boundaries is in line with expectations. Open the model explorer to quickly view the boundaries you imported and their associated acreages.
3. Classify your boundaries
You can define boundaries as being included or excluded from the layout that will be generated. By default, all boundaries are classified as “inclusion.”
To identify a boundary, select it then open the Object Details panel there you will find places to assign a name to the boundary and under “boundary type” you can indicate if it should be included or excluded from having arrays put on it.
It is best practice to identify the boundaries with a more meaningful name for your own reference to help find them later (e.g. “Site Boundary”, “wetlands”, etc). You can also change the color to help distinguish between the two types visually (red for exclude, for example).
4. Setbacks
You will clone the boundary with an offset as a positive or negative number depending on the direction of the offset.
For learn more see this article:
5. Confirm Equipment in the Catalog
The Catalog is a database of objects and equipment. All future calculations and generations will be based on it.
Check that you have the equipment desired for your layouts and analysis. In this exercise you will use the generic equipment provided by PVFARM and import additional equipment later.
Open the catalog
Browse or search for the equipment.
If it is not available, you can build the asset yourself or get in touch with support and we’re happy to help or build it for you.
For learn more see this article:
6. Place Substation
Open the Layout menu
Press "Create Substation"
Move a substation to the appropriate place
Select a substation
Press ‘T’ on your keyboard to activate the Gizmo
Use the Gizmo's controls to place the substation on your site
7. Save
Be sure to save and name your project
8. Continue to the next article: