Solution provider EPLAN showcases the new Version 2.2 of the EPLAN Platform at SPS IPC Drives, Hall 7A / Stand 240. With numerous functional extensions and innovative additional modules, for example for field cabling, it opens up new perspectives in engineering for users. The new graphical macro selection, smart terminal analysis and automatic termination points when copying sections of a circuit provide rapid design engineering results. Engineers receive a solid system which accelerates processes and provides a basis for standardization and automation.

Today the manufacturing of control panels is traditionally a labor intensive process with few options for process automation. Most operations are done manually including engineering, laying out, punching and drilling back panels and enclosures; cutting to length, stripping crimping and labeling wires, installing components and wiring panels.

Solution provider Eplan has taken over the development and sales rights to EPLAN Harness proD, the established 3D/2D software for wire harness engineering. The contract between software developer Linius Technologies and Eplan Software & Service was signed on 28/06/2012. This extension to its range will allow Eplan to offer its customers even more comprehensive support for all aspects of cable project management.

Swiss company W. Althaus AG, a full-service provider for industrial automation that delivers around 5000 switch cabinets per year all over the world, uses the EPLAN platform as the backbone for data consistency. The recent migration to EPLAN Pro Panel, the 3D system for switchgear construction brought about a quantum leap in terms of process optimisation.

Switchgear is used virtually everywhere that electricity flows. The new "Copper" add-on module for EPLAN Pro Panel Professional allows free design, configuration and virtual assembly of control cabinets and the necessary busbar systems. With EPLAN Pro Panel "Copper", information from the "Rittal Power Engineering" planning tool, which is software used for the configuration and design of low-voltage switchgear systems, can, for example, be utilised to fit the necessary Rittal system components into a virtual 3D model.

Solution provider Eplan presents enhanced fluid software that can now also be integrated in the MCAD workflow. 3D data, fluid symbols and electrical actuation will be directly linked to the parts list and the technical specifications of the equipment in future in Eplan Fluid Professional. Users will benefit from interdisciplinary engineering and lower planning and documentation costs. The expertise of the fluid engineer in the overall project will increase at the same time.

The EPLAN Platform 2.1 centers around standardization and automation. Automatic macro updates, targeted use of test routines - these and further functions bring about rapid results and increased quality. Even larger projects can be managed easier with the "EPLAN Multiuser Management" module.

Experts agree: The true potential savings in engineering lie in automation and standardisation. The new EPLAN Engineering Center One closes the huge gap that often exists between conventional and mechatronic engineering. Predefined standards such as macros or value sets can be combined automatically to a schematic through MS Excel. Solution provider EPLAN will present its new development at this year's Hanover Fair.

Traditionally, mechanical, electrical and software elements have been strictly separated and developed in a rigid sequence. Today, these disciplines are merging into a more integrated mechatronic approach. This not only paves the way for more efficient parallel development, but also simplifies coordination between mechanical, electrical and software engineers. This is why B&R integrates existing expert tools into the Automation Studio development platform via interfaces that ensure full transparency and functionality. Automation Studio provides all the functions needed to develop and configure an automation solution – such as those for creating control and HMI applications, linking motion control components, safety technology and much more. Expert tools are integrated via open, transparent interfaces to provide specialized functionality – such as EPLAN Electric P8 for electrical planning.