Development of Mobile Calculation Tools for Plumbing and HVAC Professionals

Members of the trade association manually perform complex calculations to determine water supply pipe sizing, fixture unit demands, pressure drops, and flow velocities, which are time-consuming, error-prone, and hinder operational efficiency. The lack of digital tools results in increased risk of human error and inefficiencies during on-site installations.

A mid-sized trade association representing plumbing and HVAC contractors seeking digital tools to assist their members in technical calculations and project planning.

• Develop a mobile application to automate water supply and fixture demand calculations for plumbing and HVAC projects.
• Reduce calculation errors and save time for field technicians and engineers.
• Provide a reliable resource for determining fixture units, pipe sizing, pressure drops, and flow velocities respecting industry codes.
• Enhance on-site decision-making with accurate, instant calculations accessible via mobile devices.
• Improve member satisfaction and operational productivity through easy-to-use digital tools.

• Water Supply Calculator: Determine pressure drops, fixture units, and recommended pipe sizes based on inputs using relevant industry codes (e.g., NSPC, IPC, UPC).
• Fixture & Fitting Calculator: Input fixture demand values to receive suggested pipe sizes, flow rates (GPM), pressure drops, and velocities suitable for Type L copper pipes.
• User input interface designed for field usability with minimal effort.
• Output of technical parameters including pressure drops, flow velocities, and minimum pipe sizes.
• Built-in industry code compliance for accurate calculations.

• Standards and code references (e.g., NSPC, IPC, UPC) for validated calculation parameters
• Potential integration with existing association member databases for user authentication
• Possibility to update code standards and calculation parameters dynamically

• Application must load and respond to calculation inputs within 2 seconds for maximum usability.
• Ensure calculation accuracy in compliance with industry standards.
• Secure user data, including login credentials and saved project information.
• Design for ease of use, minimizing input errors and supporting on-site usage.

The implementation of this mobile calculation app is expected to significantly reduce manual calculation errors, decrease project planning time by approximately 30-50%, and enhance on-site installation accuracy. It will support industry professionals in making faster, more informed decisions, leading to increased productivity, higher compliance with industry standards, and improved member satisfaction within the trade association community.