Klic-net: a virtual counter based on web services

The Cable and Pipeline Information Centre (KLIC) is a foundation set up to prevent damage to cables and pipelines. The figure below [FIGURE] visualises the KLIC process. In case of planned digging activities, a request can be filed with KLIC for information on the location of cables and pipelines (A in the figure). KLIC registers the request and forwards the message to the participating cable and pipeline operators (C) besides a confirmation to the digger (B). These cable and pipeline operators will then send information on the location of their cables or pipelines to the digger (D).

KLIC adopts the following starting points for its services:

• one virtual KLIC organisation;
• data are the central element in the architecture;
• one central database in which the geometric and administrative data are integrated;
• preparation for future developments;
• scalability and openness;
• diggers should be able to submit report themselves;
• optimal digital location definition;
• open interface;
• quality improvement of the reporting;
• enhancement of the effectiveness and efficiency of the processing process;
• reference data at the source;
• uniform exchange with cable and pipeline operators.

KLIC wanted to use web technology in which the presentation, application and data layers are clearly separated. In this architecture, the KLIC data had to be at the core. For achieving this, the OpenGIS standards were used. The data exchange is through webmapping and GML. The said structure enables the integration of data from different providers.

Klic-net technology

Klic-net is composed of components of Geodan and its partners:

• Geodan’s OpenGIS webservices client
• Oracle Spatial database (9i)
• W3C standards
• Open Geospatial Consortium standards
• External geo(coding) services (Geodan, Bridgis)
• Universal messaging system (Echotrade)

Advantages of the Klic-net system

With its open nature and standards, Klic-net is prepared for future developments and questions from the market. Think of the future step of making information on the location of cables and pipelines available directly online through a future Klic-online portal Klic-online portal.

The current advantages are among others the shorter and more efficient procedure for reporting excavation activities by phone and increasingly in a digital form.