In Minerva, linear entities are defined within a special project structure . This is a conscious departure from the usual entity card logic and practically yields three benefits.
The line lives as a whole.
The project structure keeps the entire line under a single management framework. Segments, points, equipment, and site structures are located under this framework. You can view the line as a whole or down to a single meter.
The main data doesn't get bloated. You don't need to open thousands of cards for a 200-kilometer line.
Investment and operation meet in the same structure.
Linear assets typically originate from large investment projects and are operated for decades. The project structure does not separate these two periods: the construction cost of the line, commissioning records, warranty information, and maintenance expenses for subsequent years all accumulate under the same structure.
"What is the total cost of ownership of this pipeline to date?" is a calculable number.
The entire system is connected to the line.
The project provides a natural point of connection to Minerva's core components. Supply chain objects, maintenance and service management objects, asset management objects, documents, requests, and calls — all can be connected directly to the line, or even to a specific segment of the line.
You don't set up a separate linear entity application and integrate it with the ERP. The linear entity is inherent to the system itself.