New coupling between EEC and Eplan Pro Panel Switchgear configured efficiently

The new interaction between EEC and Eplan Pro Panel ensures collaboration: control cabinets and switchgears can now be automatically configured instead of being planned manually. This saves time and sustainably ensures quality and reutilisation. Eplan presents the solution at the 2014 HannoverMesse.

Configuration instead of planning, this maxim has been a key factor for the continuously growing requirement of accelerating product development processes since introduction of the Eplan Engineering Center (EEC). With the coupling of EEC and Eplan Pro Panel Professional to form a integratedsolution, the future-orientated technology of configuration is now also moving into control cabinet and switchgear manufacturing.

The main advantage for users: configuration is based upon predefined rules and standards. All of the knowledge relating to components, modules, mechanical forms and electricalrequirements are deposited in the system. This considerably improves the quality of documentation. The optional connection of Eplan Pro Panel to the EEC is available with the new release of the Eplan Engineering Center, which will be appearing at the Hannover Messe.

Knowledge anchored in the system
Companies that produce their own control cabinetscan map the various components of control cabinet or switchgear manufacture in one modular system with the integratedsolution of EEC and Eplan Pro Panel. This modular system is the basis for the configuration of new, customer-specific control cabinets and switchgear.

The options for reutilisation increase within the framework of configuration. In this way, users not only save time and money – the quality of documentation is also optimised due to standardisation and quality control of the modules. If the modular system is filled with corresponding information, the mounting layout can be automatically generated in 3D. If required, the configuration can be expanded or adapted to suit the customer’s needs. This also supports last-minute changes. The options for configuration in conjunction with the 3D software Eplan Pro Panel unlocks new potential for use in technological engineering within the field of control cabinet and switchgear manufacturing.

Control cabinets and switchgear can be automatically configured with the new coupling of
EEC and Eplan Pro Panel.

Manufacturing, assembly, tender preparation
At the same time, the mounting layout is the basis for numerous other process steps in the manufacturing and assembly of the control cabinet solutions, such as e.g. virtual control cabinet wiring including length calculationof wires and cables. In this way, a continuous product development process is supported from the first concept draft via hardware and technological engineering right up to manufacture. In addition, manual manufacturing steps can then be completely automated by the creation of e.g. component and assembly lists, drilling templates and also manufacturing and assembly drawings. In addition, NC-machines for mechanical processing, automates for the wire- and terminal-assembly androbotics for automated device wiring are also supported.

The process chain in product development is thus significantly optimised. This also effects related disci-plines such as e.g. the automated generation of quota-tions. In addition, engineering also benefits from this deep integration: Mechanical drawings,electricalschematics and PLC programs can be generated via EEC. Due to the automated generation of 3D mounting layouts, the efficient process of product development based on a mechatronic configuration is completed. Thus clear savings potentials can be achieved, especially for companies in the field of machine construction and also control cabinet and switchgear manufacturing.

EPLAN Software & Service.
EPLAN Software & Service develops CAE solutions and advises companies in the optimisation of their engineering processes. Customers profit from increased efficiency in the product develop-ment process through standardised procedures, automated sequences and consistent workflows. EPLAN provides custom-made concepts for the system implementation, installation and smooth integration into the IT / PLM system landscape – based on standard engineering solutions.

The service portfolio also covers customising, consulting and training. The development of individual and standardised interfaces for ERP, PDM and PLM ensures data consistency in product development. Consistent customer orientation, global support and innovative development and interface expertise are success factors. EPLAN is a subsidiary of Rittal Software Systems and is hence part of the Friedhelm Loh Group, which employs over 11,500 staff around the world and had a turnover of € 2.2 billion in 2012. EPLAN is therefore synonymous with continuity and investment security.

Seven German EPLAN branches and a presence in more than 50 countries support more than 40,000 customers around the world with over 100,000 installations. “EPLAN – efficient engineering.” – the company motto emphasises the competence of optimised, efficient processes, which help customers to be competitive in the long term.

For more information
Web: www.eplan.de