Performance Description. Contents: EPLAN Pro Panel Version 2.6 Status: 09/2016

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2 Copyright 2016 EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG assumes no liability for either technical or printing errors, or for deficiencies in this technical information and cannot be held liable for damages that may result directly or indirectly from the delivery, performance, and use of this material. This document contains legally protected proprietary information that is subject to copyright. All rights are protected. This document or parts of this document may not be copied or reproduced by any other means without the prior consent of EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG. The software described in this document is subject to a licensing agreement. The use and reproduction of the software is only permitted within the framework of this agreement. RITTAL is a registered trademark of Rittal GmbH & Co. KG. EPLAN, EPLAN Electric P8, EPLAN Fluid, EPLAN Preplanning, EPLAN PPE, EPLAN EPLAN Smart Wiring and EPLAN Harness prod are registered trademarks of EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG. Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2012 R2, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL und Notepad are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation. PC WORX, CLIP PROJECT, INTERBUS und PROFINET are registered trademarks of Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. AutoCAD and AutoCAD Inventor are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. STEP 7, SIMATIC and SIMATIC HW Config. are registered trademarks of Siemens AG. InstallShield is a registered trademark of InstallShield, Inc. Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc. TwinCAT is a registered trademark of Beckhoff Automation GmbH. Unity Pro is a registered trademark of Schneider Electric. RSLogix 5000 and RSLogix Architect are registered trademarks of Rockwell Automation. All other product names and trade names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. EPLAN uses the Open Source software 7-Zip (7za.dll), Version 16.00, Copyright by Igor Pavlov. The source code of 7-Zip is subject to the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL). The source code of 7-Zip and details on this license can be found on the following Web site: EPLAN uses the Open Source software Open CASCADE, Version 6.9.1, Copyright by Open CASCADE S.A.S. The source code of Open CASCADE is subject to the Open CASCADE Technology Public License. The source code of Open CASCADE and details on this license can be found on the following Web site: EPLAN provides an import function which uses ecl@ss. Usage of the ecl@ss standard is subject to license and requires registration and ordering in the DownloadPortal: 2

3 Table of Contents Introduction 9 We Develop Solutions for More Efficiency 9 EPLAN Platform Your Key to Success 10 EPLAN Professional 13 Virtual 3D Enclosure Design 13 Innovative 3D Mounting Layout and Wiring 13 EPLAN Copper 14 User Interface 16 Look & Feel 16 Workflow & Integration 17 Method 18 Project Structure 3D Mounting Layout 18 The Layout Space 18 Navigators in the 3D Mounting Layout 19 3D Mounting Layout Navigator 19 Layout Space Navigator 19 Logical Structure in the Layout Space Navigator 20 Device Representation in the Layout Space Navigator 20 3D Mounting Layout 20 Device Placement 21 Placing Mounting Panels 21 Placing Free Mounting Panels 22 Placing Enclosures 22 Placing Mounting Rails 22 Placing Wire Ducts 23 Placing Busbar Systems 23 3

4 Placing C Horizontal Rails 24 Placing User-defined Rails 24 Inserting Cut-outs 25 Defining Locked Areas 25 Defining Restricted Drilling Areas 25 Placing Devices in the 3D Mounting Layout 26 Editing Components Graphically 26 Duplicating Objects in the 3D Mounting Layout 26 Rotating Objects about a Freely Selectable Axis 26 Changing the Length of Objects in the Layout Space 27 Fitting Rails and Wire Ducts 27 Device Logic 28 Importing 3D Graphic Data 30 Merging Objects in the Layout Space 30 Defining a Mounting Surface 30 Defining a Handle 30 Defining Mounting Points 31 Defining a Mounting Grid 31 Defining and Changing Placement Areas 31 Defining a Base Point 32 Transfer Base Point Scheme 32 Interpreting and Carrying over Enclosure Logic 33 Defining Connection Point Pattern in Layout Space 33 Mounting Lists 34 Mounting List Report 34 Checking and Positioning Aids 35 Using Collision Check 35 Displaying Mounting Clearances 35 4

5 Displaying Mounting Aids 36 Auxiliary Lines 36 Connection Preview 37 Measuring in the Layout Space 37 Updating Main Elements 37 Updating the Part Placement 38 Editing Legend Items 38 3D Macros 38 Creating 3D Macros 39 Placing 3D Macros 39 Changing the Rotation Angle 39 Model Views 39 Changing Model Views 40 Moving Property Texts 40 Generating Machining Data for Automatic Equipment Systems 41 NC Record 41 Drill Exceptions 42 Generating Manufacturing Data for Machining 43 Inserting 2D Drilling View 43 Generating Mounting Data for Terminal Placement Machines 43 Routing Connections 44 Generating Routing Connections 44 Displaying Connection Points Graphically 44 Inserting Routing Paths 45 Inserting Curves 45 Inserting Routing Ranges 45 Inserting Wiring Cut-outs 45 Using Connection Filters 46 5

6 Generating a Routing Path Network 46 Displaying Routing Path View 46 Optimizing Nets Automatically 47 Routing Connections 47 Routing Connections Freely 47 Changing Routing Tracks 48 Displaying Fill Capacity 48 Bundling Connections 49 Generating Manufacturing Data for Wire Fabrication Machines 49 EPLAN Project Processing Importing Devices 50 EPLAN Copper Design of Busbars and Flexible Current Distributors 52 Creating Manufacturing Data for the Processing Machines 54 EPLAN 3D Data Export 54 Exporting EPLAN Data to 3D PDF 54 Exporting 3D Graphic Data in VRML Format 55 Exporting 3D Graphic Data in STEP Format 55 Exporting Wiring Data in EPDZ Format 56 EPLAN Design Space Exchange Interdisciplinary 3D Data Exchange 56 EPLAN Thermal Design Integration Virtual Planning, Dimensioning and Validation of Climate Control Solutions 58 EPLAN Revision Management 59 EPLAN Multi Language Translation 60 EPLAN Project Options 61 EPLAN Project Management 62 EPLAN User Rights Management 63 EPLAN Project Reference 64 6

7 Multi-user 65 EPLAN Data Portal 65 Hardware Requirements 66 Workstation 66 Recommended workstation configuration 66 Network 66 Multi-user 67 Software Approvals 67 Operating systems 67 Microsoft products 68 SQL Server (64-bit) 68 PDF redlining 68 PLC systems (PLC & bus extension) 69 Overview of Functions 70 Extended Functional Scope of the Stand-alone Variant 83 Licensing Overview 91 7

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9 Introduction EPLAN Software & Service develops CAE solutions and advises companies in the optimization of their engineering processes. Customers profit from increases in efficiency in the production creation process through standardized procedures, automated processes and consistent workflows. EPLAN supplies customized concepts for system introduction, setup as well as made-to-measure integration into the IT / PLM system landscape on the basis of standard engineering solutions. The service portfolio furthermore encompasses customizing, consulting and training. The development of individual and standardized interfaces to ERP, PDM and PLM ensures data consistency in the product creation. Consistent customer orientation, global support and innovative development and interface competence are factors in success. EPLAN belongs to the Friedhelm Loh Group and thus stands for continuity and investment security. Optimized engineering processes are our promise. Customized and practical. We Develop Solutions for More Efficiency Globalized markets, higher cost and time pressure as well as increasing competition place pressure on companies to permanently work more efficiently. As the only way to meet the challenges in their branch and achieve their ambitious targets such as leadership in innovation, worldwide growth and operational excellence. In the pursuit of these targets unused potentials are often found in particular in engineering that have an effect on the entire process of product development process. Under the motto "EPLAN efficient engineering" the company has been developing practice-oriented engineering solutions and individual concepts for optimizing engineering processes for its customers for more than 30 years. EPLAN advises companies with the aim of perfectly synchronizing processes, reducing project durations and lowering engineering costs. 9

10 More than 45,000 customers of various sizes and from different branches nowadays rely on EPLAN and its products daily to secure their competitiveness and the future of their company in the long term. Ensure that you have a decisive head start against your competitors and increase the efficiency of the engineering processes in your company sustainably! EPLAN Platform Your Key to Success The EPLAN Platform interconnects expert systems for the various disciplines such as electrical, fluid power and E-I&C engineering as well as enclosure manufacturing. Thus all applications are supplied with the same basic data and editing functions, ensuring high project quality and a mechatronical working method. EPLAN Electric P8 EPLAN Electric P8 is a CAE software solution for designing, documenting and managing electrical-engineering automation projects. EPLAN Fluid EPLAN Fluid is a CAE software solution for designing and documenting fluidplants in the fields of hydraulics, pneumatics, cooling and lubrication. EPLAN Preplanning EPLAN Preplanning is a CAE software solution for the technical pre-planning of machines and plants. The software supports graphical and database-based working methods with data transfer to the interdisciplinary detailed planning. Individual system configuration allows flexible customizing to established engineering processes. EPLAN Preplanning P&ID EPLAN Preplanning P&ID is a CAE software solution for creating plant overviews, PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams) and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) for process-engineering machines and plants. 10

11 EPLAN EPLAN is a CAE software solution for configuring and verifying enclosures and switch gears in 3D including the provision of data for material logistics and production integration. EPLAN Smart Wiring EPLAN Smart Wiring is a browser-based software solution for the requirements of manual wiring. Whether DT, connecting point, cross-section, color, wire length, termination processing or exact routing track: All the required information for wiring is made available in 100% digital form and visualized. The visualization references the 3D layout and the results of the virtual wiring in EPLAN. EPLAN Harness prod EPLAN Harness prod is a CAE software solution for efficient designing and documenting of cables and wire harnesses in 3D / 2D, from a digital prototype to the creation of complete production documents. EPLAN Engineering Configuration One The use of EPLAN Engineering Configuration One (EEC One) is the first step into the world of automated Excel-based schematic generation for electrical engineering and fluid power on the basis of predefined standards such as EPLAN macros, value sets, variants. EPLAN Engineering Configuration EPLAN Engineering Configuration Professional (EEC Professional) is a type of "central control unit" that forms the bridge between mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and control technology as well as documentation. A modular system and a set of rules allow variant management in machine and plant engineering. EPLAN Data Portal Integrated, web-based data platform for the provision of up-to-date device data of leading component manufacturers for direct use in the configuration with EPLAN software solutions. 11

12 Our software is conceived as an integrated system and connects all disciplines. Note: The scope of service contained in this performance description applies for the product "EPLAN " with all extension modules and add-ons. For the features of all available program variants and module packages, please see the "Licensing Overview" chapter at the end of this document. 12

13 EPLAN Professional Virtual 3D Enclosure Design With EPLAN you conceive and design control system enclosures, switch gears and flexible power distribution systems for the energy supply in 3D. The scope of performance of the software includes 3D mounting layout, virtual 3D wiring as well as the design, modification and customizing of copper rails. Further functionalities apply to the manufacturing integration: All the project reports, drawings and unfolds including the data required for the machine control that are relevant for manufacturing and mounting can be generated directly in EPLAN both for the machining of enclosure components or copper rails as well as the controlling of automatic machines and the use of service concepts for the cable and wire fabrication, the automatic equipping of terminal strips as well as robot-supported wiring of devices. Innovative bundle technologies are also supported. Innovative 3D Mounting Layout and Wiring Free selection of workflow approach and engineering methods EPLAN Pro Panel is flexible: You determine your working method yourself whether on the basis of device and connection lists, electrotechnical or fluid-power schematics; whether in 3D mounting layout directly on the mounting panel or in the course of the design of busbar systems and flexible power distributors. All the relevant components can be identified very easily and for example mounted on the mounting panel. Thanks to the innovative etouch technology you place devices and components in 3D just as precisely and simply as in 2D. Optimum dimensioning with planning reliability: The virtual 3D model of the enclosure or of the switch gear supports you in dimensioning and in the perfect usage of space. Integrated planning aids such as the collision checks, the online connection display, or the consideration of the manufacturer specifications about installation requirements, minimum distances, material properties and bending radii, allow rapid and optimal positioning and installation. 13

14 Disturbance recognition and other aspects of consistent quality assurance are moved to the development phase and eliminated at an early stage including planning reliability. Virtual wiring For perfect wiring of the control technology EPLAN uses the 3D mounting layout and for example the schematic. Virtual wiring of the enclosure is carried out on the basis of the combination of the exact position of the item in the mounting layout and the connection information. At the click of a button the system determines the optimum conductor and cable routing tracks as well as all the resulting connection lengths. The result of the virtual wiring can be used, in turn, to optimize the schematic. EPLAN Copper Measuring, cutting, bending, fitting and connecting: Copper rails are an important factor in planning energy distributors. The "EPLAN Copper" extension module can be used to plan individual busbar systems and flexible current distributors including the copper rails to be bent and their connections, and to fit them to the installation situation. All the required data for drill holes, punched holes, bending angles or radii are also provided in the form of drawings and machine data for NC-supported manufacturing the new dimension in design, manufacturing and mounting. 14

15 With its deep integration, the EPLAN sustainably speeds up parallelized engineering on a uniform data basis. The bottom line is this: elimination of need for data conversion, data checking and "Reverse Engineering"; decreasing costs, rising quality, reduced "time-tomarket", and sustainable investment security. The core features of EPLAN as well as the delimitation of the Professional module package and the optional extension modules are described in the following chapters. However, it is beyond the scope of this document to provide all details. If you have any further questions particularly on details you don't find in this description just contact us at info@eplan.help. Monheim, September 2016 Product Management EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG 15

16 User Interface Look & Feel The system provides an intuitive user interface. Windows-compatible operation with functionalities such as Tooltips, toolbars, drag & drop and Online Help allow beginners and occasional users to get to grips quickly. Users can easily adapt the entire interface including window arrangement and toolbars to their needs and wishes. The settings can be saved and retrieved as workspaces as needed. This allows you e.g. to save defaults for work standards and processes. Users can then focus optimally on their actual work engineering as the user interface customized to their task allows efficient and rapid designing. In addition, users can customize their own keyboard shortcuts. User-defined keyboard shortcuts are also displayed in the menu bar. Experienced users achieve high input speeds using continuous keyboard control. In addition to the default input boxes for properties, configurable properties are also available to which the users can assign their own names and predefined values. This allows terms and default values that are established in a company to also be used in EPLAN. Rapid familiarization and the implementation of company-specific standards are thus easily possible. 16

17 Workflow & Integration The system can be configured by means of settings to meet the needs of the user, company, and project. The result: The workflow is accelerated and the required work result achieved efficiently. You also have access to an extensive online didactic help system which provides efficient work support. Functions for backing up data, archiving, and sending projects via ensure the necessary security and transparency of work results. A compression function removes the non-essential data from a project, if desired, to reduce the storage medium load, to simplify data maintenance and, if necessary, to protect your company know-how when projects are passed on. Data formats, such as TXT, CSV, XLS, XML, PDF and DXF / DWG with layers and blocks are available as interfaces for exchange with Microsoft Office products. The possibility of using existing data beyond engineering and the online provision of documents are the basis for simple service and maintenance processes. Interfaces facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation. The program can be integrated into the existing added value chain. The information and work flow can be automated using scripts or API in the ".NET" environment. An active automatic exchange of information simplifies integration into PDM and ERP systems. And this comprehensive approach doesn't just help project engineers to achieve the correct result faster other departments such as Materials Management, Production, Controlling, and Sales also benefit from transparent IT processes. 17

18 Method The CAE program reflects the specific working method and methodology of an engineer in the context of wire harness design thus ensuring the highest possible effectiveness within the product creation process. This should be differentiated as follows: Graphical combination of mounting layouts and the derivation of drawings for manufacturing and mounting. Start of the planning in the schematic or optionally in the 3D mounting layout, for example directly on the mounting panel or in the enclosure. 3D mounting layout of the basis of electrical-engineering and fluid-power schematics or on the basis of device and connection lists. The work method changes frequently or is combined between individual projects but also during the project phases. Any editing sequence is possible. The program is designed so that editing in the system can always follow the actual course of the project. The system allows the project to be edited at any time from different views. This releases new potential productivity in engineering and also increases transparency. Project Structure 3D Mounting Layout The Layout Space In addition to the display of the logical structure within a project and the graphical representation on the EPLAN project pages, there is also a graphical 3D display area that shows placed devices. This display is independent of any project page. The 3D model is displayed in a layout space that allows the 3D objects and their editing to be viewed. It is therefore a basic requirement for working with 3D components in an EPLAN project that a layout space has been created. This is the environment / workspace for the 3D data and the functional logic that connects it. 18

19 Navigators in the 3D Mounting Layout 3D Mounting Layout Navigator The 3D mounting layout navigator is used to list the electrical engineering and fluid power as well as mechanical devices available in the project so that they can be placed in a layout space. All the electrical engineering, fluid power and mechanical devices to which a part is assigned are listed. The view in the tree view is always identifier-based 3D mounting layout navigator. The list view is alternatively available. Parts without a device tag are grouped in a separate node. Devices that have already been placed in the 3D layout space are identified by an additional icon, if there is a matching device in the schematic or in the device navigator. If this is not the case, devices placed in the layout space have a special identification. Multiple entries may be selected in both the tree view and the list view. These selected devices can then be placed at the same time on the mounting panel or, for example, on doors or side panels. It is also possible to select a node in the tree view. All devices that are affected by this selection are placed together. Layout Space Navigator The layout space navigator gives you a logical overview of your project data within a 3D mounting layout: In the layout space navigator you can create layout spaces in order to view and to place devices independently of project pages in a 3D view. You can activate mounting surfaces in the layout spaces for the placement of devices. You can filter the display and switch between the tree and list views in the layout space navigator in just the same way as in other navigators. 19

20 Logical Structure in the Layout Space Navigator The layout space navigator maps the logical structure of the placed part. There are hierarchical dependencies between all the items. If a superior item (such as a mounting rail) is moved or deleted, the devices that are placed on it will be moved or deleted as well. This logical structure can also be included in reports. Device Representation in the Layout Space Navigator The layout space navigator displays all devices that exist in the layout spaces of the opened project. Tree view The layout spaces form the top hierarchical level in the tree. Beneath a layout space, the devices it contains are arranged in hierarchical order: Starting from the mounting panel or the superior enclosure, all devices are displayed beneath the item on which they are placed. 3D Mounting Layout EPLAN is used for placing electrical engineering and fluid power devices from the EPLAN project, from the EPLAN parts management or from the EPLAN Data Portal, as required. In conjunction with mechanical components such as cable ducts, mounting rails, mounting panels or entire enclosures, EPLAN simplifies the construction of complex 3D mounting layouts dramatically. Some mechanical components can have several individually selectable mounting surfaces, allowing the placement of other items. These include mounting panels, doors, walls, profiles, and also electrical engineering and fluid power devices, which are represented by a 3D graphical macro. Other mechanical components, e.g., mounting rails, have only an internally defined mounting surface for devices, which cannot be changed and which are therefore also not shown in the tree view of the layout space navigator. 20

21 You can generate 2D model views of the mounting panels and enclosures mounted in the layout space, and these are saved on project pages. These model views can include dimensions and other information and can be used as production documents. Reports in the form of enclosure legends and bills of material help you with calculating and planning materials requirements. You can influence the display of the tree view. If you have placed a mounting panel in the layout space, for example, the grouping sign is inherited by all the items arranged beneath it and is prefixed before their designation text. This ensures that it is always clear which part placement belongs to which mounting panel or enclosure in the navigator tree. Device Placement To place devices correctly on mounting panels, mounting rails, doors, walls, etc., the required mounting surface or item must be identified for placement. There is an option in the Layout space navigator dialog to enable you to activate surfaces of this type automatically or directly. Automatic activation is suitable for all surfaces and items that are not covered by other components. Use direct activation to access the mounting surfaces of covered components or components that are at the back, from the layout space navigator. This is not possible in the graphical representation without hiding the covering components. The viewpoint is toggled to the front view. All components that are not involved are hidden. Placing Mounting Panels For quick and easy design and configuration, it is possible to place an individual mounting panel in the layout space without surrounding enclosure profiles and without selecting from parts management. When mounting panels are placed as parts, an automatic filter is set on the "Mounting panel" part group. 21

22 Placing Free Mounting Panels The free mounting panel has the same properties and editing options as the mounting panel associated with a specific part. The mounting panel is defined geometrically by the entry of the height, width and depth. The part selection allows the mounting panel to be retrospectively assigned a part. Placing Enclosures Enclosures are placed in a layout space in the 3D mounting layout. The parts management dialog contains various predefined series of enclosures; you can select enclosures from them to be placed. There are two different enclosure types, which are defined in parts management in separate product subgroups. With both enclosure types, the elements are grouped and fixed to the enclosure by the "Item is fastened immovably to the superior item" property. Placing Mounting Rails Mounting rails are normally placed on mounting panels or on the mounting surfaces of enclosure profiles. The automatic activation or direct activation options help with accurate placement. The handle of the mounting rail can be changed before placement. Mounting rails can be inserted in one of two ways, which differ in the method by which the length is entered: Variable-length placement by entering the start and end point; here the length is defined by the distance between the two points. Adoption of the length of an already placed item; here the mounting rail is placed by entering a single point. With the second method the mounting rail can also automatically be positioned centrally between two already placed items. 22

23 Placing Wire Ducts Wire ducts are normally placed on mounting panels or on the mounting surfaces of enclosure profiles. They are placed in the same way as mounting rails. The automatic activation or direct activation options help with accurate placement. The handle of the wire duct can be changed before placement. Wire ducts can be inserted in one of two ways, which differ in the method by which the length is entered: Variable-length placement by entering the start and end point; here the length is defined by the distance between the two points. Adoption of the length of an already placed item; here the wire duct is placed by entering a single point. With the second method the wire duct can also automatically be positioned centrally between two already placed items. Placing Busbar Systems Busbar systems can be placed in a layout space from the following sources: Via the menu From the part master data navigator From the bill of materials navigator By inserting devices From the device list From window macros From the EPLAN Data Portal. Busbar systems are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed on any other mounting surfaces. The selection and placement method are similar to those of mounting rails and wire ducts: in addition the number of busbars can be specified and the corresponding busbar supports assigned and automatically placed during the definition of busbar systems. 23

24 Placing C Horizontal Rails C horizontal rails can be placed in a layout space from the following sources: Via the menu By inserting devices From the part master data navigator From the bill of materials navigator From the device list From the EPLAN Data Portal. C horizontal rails are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed on any other mounting surface. Selection and placement are similar to those of mounting rails and wire ducts: Placing User-defined Rails With this function it is possible to assign a profile outline created with the 2D outline editor to a part and to extrude this 2D outline with a definable length in the course of the rail placement. The profile outline and the defined length form the rail. User-defined rails can be placed in a layout space from the following sources: Via the menu Via the inserting of devices From the part master data navigator From the bill of materials navigator From the device list From the EPLAN Data Portal. User-defined rails are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed on any other mounting surface. Selection and placement are similar to those of mounting rails and wire ducts. 24

25 Inserting Cut-outs Cut-outs are manually placed openings in construction items, mounting panels and sheets that are drilled or manufactured by NC robots. Cut-outs do not actually model the 3D body in which they are inserted, but rather are visualized by a placeholder that penetrates the item and contains all the information on coordinates and material thickness. NC machines can interpret such information and implement it as manufacturing steps. Cut-outs of the following types can be inserted individually or in multiples: Drill hole Threaded hole Rectangle Slotted hole Hexagon Octagon User-defined outline From drilling pattern. Defining Locked Areas Parts of mounting surfaces on components in the layout space (mounting panels, enclosure profiles, walls, doors) can be locked for positioning so that part placements cannot occur on them. Locked areas are independent 3D objects drawn as rectangles. Defining Restricted Drilling Areas Restricted drilling areas exclude the affected area from the calculation of drilling coordinates. Drill holes within these areas are not displayed in the drilling view or output with NC data and so are not drilled. User-defined drill holes cannot be placed on restricted drilling areas either. 25

26 Restricted drilling areas are placed in the same way as restricted placing areas. In contrast to restricted placing areas, however, the restricted drilling areas penetrate the entire item and are also visible and effective on the opposite side. Placing Devices in the 3D Mounting Layout Devices are placed as devices on mounting rails, mounting panels or on any other items. The automatic activation or direct activation options help with accurate placement. The handle of the device can be changed before placement. The device dimensions are specified in the part definition or in the assigned graphical macro, and cannot subsequently be changed. Editing Components Graphically Duplicating Objects in the 3D Mounting Layout Using the Duplicate command, you can insert multiple copies of 3D objects and 3D macros in the layout space very easily at the same time. Duplication only works within the layout space, not across layout spaces. Rotating Objects about a Freely Selectable Axis The "Rotate around axis" functionality rotates one or several objects in the layout space (e.g. 3D bodies imported from STEP files) around the center of the invisible rectangular body enveloping them. Edges, auxiliary lines, or the axis of a mounting point or a base point can be used as axes of rotation. Thus it is possible to rotate 3D objects also around non-orthogonal lines and edges, independently of the coordinate system of the layout space. 26

27 Changing the Length of Objects in the Layout Space The length in the layout space of placed items variable in length, such as mounting rails or wire ducts can be changed subsequently. The length can always be changed only for an individual object; it is not possible to select several objects. Different forms of input can be used to define the new length: Free point entry by clicking Snapping a projection point to another object Entering a positive or negative value in the input box. Fitting Rails and Wire Ducts Fitting is about reconciling the lengths of length-variable items placed in parallel to each other (wire ducts, mounting rails, busbars, C horizontal rails, user-defined rails) with selectable points and edges. Possible uses are: All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed on a mounting panel are drawn towards an edge of the mounting panel in a suitable manner in a single work step. All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed next to a vertical wire duct are drawn towards it in a suitable manner in a single work step. All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed between two vertical wire ducts are drawn towards them in a suitable manner in two work steps. 27

28 Device Logic 3D objects that are to be used as mechanical or electromechanical devices in the 3D mounting layout must have a range of properties that allow them to be used in the mounting layout: The objects can be placed in the layout space and on other objects. Other objects can be placed on the 3D objects. The placed objects fit in with the logical structure of the items. All these properties in their entirety are known as the device logic. There are a number of functions available for creating and editing the device logic. These functions are used following the use of graphical import and editing functions and prepare the 3D graphic - which immediately after import has no logic functions - for use as a 3D macros for devices. To ensure correct placement it is necessary as a minimum to define a placement area; the other logic functions are optional. Graphic Definition for Devices The following functionalities are available for defining the 3D graphics: Importing of 3D graphics Uniting of several graphics components Rotating of a graphic around an axis. These functions can be used in the schematic project and in the 3D macro project. 28

29 Logic Definition for Devices The device logic can be defined through dedicated functionalities. Certain points and areas are only visible in a 3D macro project. This applies to: Placement areas Defined area on an item on which the 3D object itself is placed and aligned. Mounting points Defined points which as 3D snap points allow other components to dock to the 3D object. The following functionalities can be used in the schematic project and in the 3D macro project: Mounting surface: Definition of surfaces on which components can be placed; these surfaces are found by automatic activation or can be selectively activated. Handle: Definition of points by which the 3D object is moved on the cursor on placement; these points can dock to other 3D objects if placed on 3D snap points. Base points: Definition of points on which accessory parts can be placed automatically at fixed defined positions in enclosures. Handles and Mounting Points: Interactive Points, Lines, and Areas in the Device Logic The functions for defining the device logic work with interactive points, lines, and areas. User-defined points and surfaces can be used to create dependencies in the assembly of 3D components. Interactive points can also be added if necessary to components that have been imported from external 3D CAD systems using the STEP exchange format, to control placing options or to define degrees of freedom in the rotation and alignment of components to one another. 29

30 Importing 3D Graphic Data You can import 3D graphic data to create your own items and 3D macros. The item data must be available in the common international STEP format (STandard for the Exchange of Product model data). A new layout space is generated for each import, and is given the name of the imported STEP file. Once imported, the item data can be edited and given functional logic. Merging Objects in the Layout Space A 3D macro (in other words a layout space in a macro project) can contain several individual bodies if there were several bodies included in the imported source file. Although a geometrical addition of bodies is not possible, there is a function available which merges all components of the layout space in such a way that a 3D macro is treated like one item. This functionality is only available in layout spaces and is intentionally differentiated from grouping in the 2D mounting layout. Defining a Mounting Surface Individual surfaces of bodies imported as 3D data can be defined as mounting surfaces. These are areas on the item on which other components can be placed. They are used for capturing the handles of rails, channels and components that are to be placed on them. The mounting surfaces can be activated automatically by touching them with the cursor or selectively from the layout space navigator. Mounting surfaces can be deleted in the navigator. Defining a Handle A handle is used to place a 3D macro. In addition to the handles, which are generated automatically for 3D bodies, there is a user-defined handle in the macro. When placing an item in the project, select this handle in the placement options in the Handle field under the name "Graphical macro". 30

31 Defining Mounting Points Mounting points are used to define points on 3D objects on which other components can be placed. Mounting points can be used for the exclusive placement of a suitable handle on a 3D object. Example: Placement of the center of a mounting rail drill hole on the center of a drill hole on a support. A mounting point is therefore a snap point. Mounting points can have a direction and a rotation, which means that placement of the 3D objects can be controlled using a set of rules: The direction determines the direction in which the object to be placed on the mounting point should be aligned. The rotation also allows the object to be placed to be moved around the selected direction axis. Defining a Mounting Grid Mounting grids are assigned to individual areas of a 3D part placement, and during the placement of other components are displayed on these areas. Thus, placement is only possible on the intersections of the grid lines. Using the mounting grid, it is possible to represent a manufacturer and type-specific hole pattern, for example, on enclosure profiles, within which screw connections are set during the mounting. Defining and Changing Placement Areas In order to be placed correctly on other 3D objects, 3D macros require information about the area with which they are placed and the direction in which they may have to be turned. This information is stored in the 3D macro by the definition of a placement area. The position of the placement area also determines the mounting depth to which the 3D object is positioned on a mounting surface. Nine handles are then automatically generated on the placement surface. You can use these for positioning. In addition you can define a further handle. This handle is always projected onto the defined placement area when placing it. 31

32 Defining a Base Point Base points are components of the device logic that are used in working with enclosure accessories. Base points are fixed defined mounting points in a layout space. You can use base points to install enclosure items (e.g., side panels, base) at a fixed defined location in the accessories management. A distinction is made between automatically generated base points and user-defined base points. You can use automatic base points to place enclosures and matching accessories from accessories management, without having to generate detailed macros for this purpose. But there is also the option to store user-defined base points in a macro and to use them in accessories management as the property of an accessory placement. Automatic Base Points Automatic base points are generated for all enclosures that are generated directly without macro from the parts database. (Product group "Enclosure", Product subgroup "Component" and "Body"). In the data transfer of accessory parts from EPLAN Cabinet, the existing base points are applied and converted to automatic base points. User-defined base points are mounting points with predefined properties manually placed in a macro by the user that can be used as the property of an accessory placement in accessories management. This way you define the positions on frame profiles and housings where the macro may be placed as an accessory part. Transfer Base Point Scheme In connection with the creation of enclosures of the Rittal series "TS8", "AE", and "CM", which have been imported into the layout space as STEP data, it is possible to place the base points automatically in a manner suitable for the enclosure series. 32

33 Interpreting and Carrying over Enclosure Logic Using the Automatic enclosure interpretation you transfer the existing logic of an enclosure to another, newly to be defined, enclosure of the same design. This way you can substantially simplify and speed up the work steps to create your own enclosure series. The preparatory step is always the selection of a suitable interpretation template that contains the device logic to be interpreted and corresponds to the design of the enclosure to be interpreted. In addition to enclosures other devices can also be interpreted automatically in this form and have design-specific logic assigned to them. Logic elements of items from a project other than the active project, for example a macro project, can be used as the interpretation template. It is furthermore possible to selected an existing part via the parts management as the interpretation template. Defining Connection Point Pattern in Layout Space Part placements receive information about their connection points mostly from the definition of the connection point pattern at the part that was carried out in the central parts management. If in the properties of the part placement on the Connection point pattern tab the Local connection point pattern check box is activated, the connection points defined on the part will be copied to this part placement. Subsequently, the referencing to the parts data is canceled, and the connection points can be modified individually. If the placed part does not have predefined connection points, it is possible to define the connection points on the part placement graphically. These graphical connection points are also local and apply to the edited part placement. If connection points are already defined at the part, these are converted automatically into local connection points. 33

34 Like all local connection points, the graphically defined connection points, too, can be modified individually (position, connection point direction). The modified connection point data of local connection points can then be used again in order to transfer them to connection point patterns in parts management. Mounting Lists In EPLAN, you can generate the Mounting list report for 3D part placements of a layout space. Mounting lists are used to map in a report the hierarchical structure of a mounting layout in the layout space. The report can be done for a very specific part placement (mounting panel, enclosure, busbar, etc.). Mounting List Report In such a function-based report, the 3D part placements are evaluated for which the "Create mounting list" property has been activated in the property dialog. This property can be selected via the property selection for all 3D functions (except for mounting surfaces). For devices with the activated property, all devices of the hierarchy level immediately below are listed in the output mounting list. To create a mounting list, you can use the new "Mounting list" report type located in the "Select report" dialog. As with other function-related reports, too, when outputting the mounting list you can make a manual selection. In the subsequent "Manual selection" dialog, all 3D part placements are listed for which the Create mounting list property has been activated. 34

35 Checking and Positioning Aids Using Collision Check The collision check checks whether items overlap or penetrate each other during placement and editing. It always kicks in when items are placed, moved, copied, duplicated, rotated or extended. Resulting collisions are visualized by coloring the affected items. The color used to this purpose can be specified by using the user options. The collision check includes all item types, regardless of whether they are displayed or hidden. The collision check can be turned off at any time. When placing length-variable items, the collision check is activated after defining the first placement point. Intentional collisions are not treated as collisions (e.g., a monitor integrated into a door). The safety areas (mounting clearances) defined on a part are evaluated and taken into account by the collision check. There is a check run to check for collisions subsequently. Displaying Mounting Clearances Parts management can be used to define a mounting clearance in terms of width, height, and depth on the Mounting data tab in the part properties. This mounting clearance ensures that the permitted thermal stress on parts placed beside or on top of one another is not exceeded. To monitor this, the specified mounting clearances can be shown during placement. They are shown as transparent, surrounding bodies. In the placement options, the handle of a part to be placed can be set relative to the edges of the item (default) or to the mounting clearances. 35

36 Displaying Mounting Aids Mounting aids are the following elements of device logic: Handles Mounting points Base points Mounting grid. These elements are visible in a schematic project only if they are in use, that is, during the placement in a layout space. Sometimes you may want to render mounting aids visible even outside of placement actions, so that they can be edited. The visibility of the mounting aids in the schematic project can be controlled as required. Auxiliary Lines 3D lines can be placed in the layout space as auxiliary lines. Auxiliary lines can be used to build a symmetrical or also irregular grid whose intersections can be used as positioning aids when inserting mounting rails, wire ducts, and devices. 3D lines are placed on mounting surfaces; but placement outside of mounting surfaces is also possible. In contrast to 2D lines, the starting and end points of 3D lines have a Z coordinate containing information on their position in the space. There are two different types of auxiliary lines: Line "Through 2 points" (defined by starting and end points) Line "Parallel through point". End and center points of auxiliary lines are found when object snap is turned on. "Real" intersections of auxiliary lines are also found when the lines are at the same height in the space. Auxiliary lines can be moved, copied, duplicated and deleted like 2D lines. Auxiliary lines are displayed in model views. 36

37 Connection Preview The connection preview is useful when placing devices on the 3D mounting layout navigator. A blue line shows which device, already placed, is electrically connected to the device that is about to be placed in the project plan. The connection preview makes it easier to group associated devices and helps avoid unnecessarily long wiring. Measuring in the Layout Space The "Measuring" functionality is available for checking the equipment of the mounting panels and enclosures in the layout space. The distance from points and edges can be measured, and the measurement result is displayed in a dialog. This contains the coordinates of both the measured elements, the distances of the measured points and the shortest distance between the two measured elements. The measurement of the coordinates and the distance from points and edges is output relatively, parallel to a common mounting surface. If the measured points are not on a common mounting surface, the measured values are relative to the origin of the layout space. Updating Main Elements All the part references of all the associated part placements can be transferred to the main function in the 3D mounting layout as well. This replaces the part references in the main function with the part references contained in the part placements. As in the 2D mounting layout, identification is by the complete device tag. 37

38 Updating the Part Placement When the part number is exchanged in a part placement in a layout space or when modifications are made to the 3D mounting layout macro, the part dimensions have to be updated. It is only possible to update the part dimensions for devices, mounting rails and wire ducts on mounting surfaces, and for individually inserted mounting panels and free mounting panels. Editing Legend Items The 3D mounting layout also has the option of editing legend items and changing numbering. 3D Macros The macro technique in "EPLAN " corresponds to the way of working in the EPLAN platform. The following applies to 3D macros: 3D macros are managed in a macro project. 3D macros can be created and used as window (*.ema) and / or symbol macros (*.ems). 3D macros are always created with the "3D mounting layout" representation type. Both creating and inserting with this representation type is only possible in a layout space. The 3D macros can be assigned to the parts in parts management. As a result, the part is displayed in detail and very realistically. If there is no graphic macro for the part, the graphic is implemented as a cuboid by entering the height, width, and depth, in as far as these entries exist at the part. If a 3D macro is assigned to an enclosure, then the graphic of the enclosure is not generated automatically during placement; in this case the content of the graphic macro defines the graphic. 38

39 Creating 3D Macros 3D macros can be created as follows: Manually by saving selected objects from a layout space Automatically from imported STEP files (*.ema only) Manually or automatically from a macro project. Placing 3D Macros 3D macros are placed in the layout space in the same way as devices. These macros can only be placed in an open layout space with the "3D mounting layout" representation type. Changing the Rotation Angle When you insert a 3D macro, you can rotate the angle of the macro in 90 increments at the handle. Up to 40 different mounting positions can be implemented with a single 3D macro by changing the handles. These options also apply to devices whose parts have been assigned a 3D macro. Model Views Model views are standardized views and views of equipped mounting surfaces. They are used for display purposes and for creating drawings. Mode views can be compiled in templates and specifications for the required dimensionings assigned to them. The drawings including dimensioning and legend required for a manufacturing documentation can be generated automatically on the basis of the templates. Additional information such as dimensioning, texts, etc. for enclosure production (enclosure equipment) can be drawn in the model views using standard platform functions. A model view can be inserted in any page type. 39

40 Changing Model Views You can use the following actions to modify how the content of model views is displayed and arranged: Update Center contents Move contents Edit properties Show / hide 3D objects. Updating the Model View If the content of the layout space referenced by the model view was changed, the message "Model view not up to date" appears over the top of the model view when the page is opened. The model view must be updated to match the contents of the layout space and model view. Centering the Contents If the display in the model view was changed by modifying the frame size or by using the "Move contents" or "Update" action, you may find that the graphic no longer appears centered in the model view. You can run the "Center contents" action to return the graphic to the center of the model view. Moving the Contents This action moves the entire content of the model view. You can use this option to change the position of the graphic in the model view without having to create a new model view. The centered status can be restored with the Center contents action. Moving Property Texts The "Move property texts" command activates the insertion points of the property texts of items in a model view and these are made visible by clicking on the individual components. The text can then be moved using Drag & Drop. 40

41 Generating Machining Data for Automatic Equipment Systems NC machines are drilling, cutting, and milling robots which convert planning information into production processes by means of a control program. Mounting panels, doors, and other equipable enclosure components are mostly manufactured by NC machines when it comes to enclosure design. In the EPLAN Pro Panel module package manufacturing data can be created for NC machines and exported using appropriate interfaces. The NC interface modules transmit the coordinates and dimensions of drill holes, cut-outs or locked areas, as well as other production data to edit mounting panels, doors or side sections directly on NC drilling and milling robots. For the NC manufacture of user-defined outlines, outline records, adjusted for the machine in use, can be generated. EPLAN furthermore allows for the output of item-specific drilling patterns in a ratio of 1:1 in PDF files. This template, printed on a plotter or largeformat printer in the same size, serves as a template for the manual drilling of the mounting panel. NC Record An NC record is an NC program that can drill and mill an outline on a machine. In this context, the focus is on the specific possibilities of the machine and its tools. The outline is created graphically in the outline editor and equipped with the machine-specific information by generating an NC record. Field for NC Machining A field in the NC export is a (part) surface that is machined by the NC machine. Each NC-relevant surface (i.e. with a specific item ID) and each item with NC relevance (i.e., with the "Machining" property activated) is treated as a field during the export to an NC robot or when creating a drilling template. Of course, this applies only if it is included in the selection for the export, and only if this field has been equipped in the project and if, thus, machining occurs. 41

42 Field Size in 3D Macros When creating 3D macros with NC-relevant surfaces, you must define the mounting surface as well as a field size, which generally corresponds to the surrounding rectangle of the mounting surface. NC-relevant surfaces without a field size are not exported. A check run checks whether all NC-relevant mounting surfaces have a defined field size. Mounting Check The mounting check checks whether all items that have been placed on NCrelevant surfaces have a drilling pattern. This check is done via a check run. The check run message is always output if a part placement has been placed on an NC-relevant mounting surface and no valid drilling pattern has been assigned. Drill Exceptions In machine-based manufacture, it depends on the machine in use whether the required drill hole type can be generated. For example, a laser can produce exact hexagons, but a milling cutter cannot. This is not set definitively in the parts data, because it is not known yet which machine will be used for the manufacture. For each machine, for DXF output and drilling templates, specific drill exceptions can be defined in the settings. This way, drill holes that cannot be manufactured on one machine are replaced by another type that the machine can manufacture. When exporting NC drill data, then, the alternatives are exported rather than the originals. In the case of real machines, after the exception, alternative processing triggered by missing tools is also selected (if the thread cutter is missing, drill only core hole, etc.). 42

43 Generating Manufacturing Data for Machining EPLAN allows for the output of manufacturing data for NC-supported machines of different manufacturers and for sharing it with service providers: Rittal - Perforex / Secarex STEINHAUER ecab General NC-DXF interface Each of these formats must be licensed as separate interfaces. Inserting 2D Drilling View The drilling view (2D) is a form of model view specialized in the display of NCrelevant data. It shows the NC-relevant data, drill holes, cut-outs, as well as outlines of basic items and parts. Dimensioning can be inserted into the drilling view. Generating Mounting Data for Terminal Placement Machines Optional interfaces allow EPLAN to output data for the automatic placement of terminals on mounting rails. Rittal - Athex This output interface is optional and has to be licensed separately. 43

44 Routing Connections Generating Routing Connections Routing means the generation of routing connections of the "3D mounting layout" representation type. These connections can be routed in the layout space. A routing connection has all the properties that a multi-line connection also has, but it also additionally contains information about its routing track. It is generally multi-line connections being routed for whose targets there is a placed 3D part placement. The routing generates a routing connection if only an existing multi-line connection is routed. For connections of a single-line representation type, routing is not possible, and the option is deactivated. Routing connections are displayed in the layout space in their conductor color and with their external diameter. If neither is defined, a default representation will be displayed. Displaying Connection Points Graphically Connection points at 3D part placements can be rendered visible in the layout space. This allows you to better estimate whether their position and connection point direction are suitable for existing routing paths and wire ducts, so that routing connections can find the connection points reliably. If this is not the case, you must modify either the connection point direction or the course of the routing paths. In the graphical display, connection points cannot be deleted, moved or duplicated. Connection point data is modified in the property dialog of the part placement. 44

45 Inserting Routing Paths Routing paths are automatically or manually inserted default paths along which connections can be routed. Routing paths are displayed graphically by means of lines with snap points at the starting, end and center points. The colors of the routing paths can be set. Automatic routing paths are generated when you execute the "Generate routing path network" action on the basis of placed wire ducts, routing ranges, and wiring cut-outs. Manual routing paths are not linked to wire ducts, etc. Inserting Curves Curves are manually inserted default paths along which electrical engineering and Fluid power connections can be routed. The curve is defined by a starting point and at least two successive control points. Once the placement of a curve is completed, the last-placed control point is interpreted as end point. Graphically, the curves, like routing paths, are displayed as blue lines with snap points at the starting/end points and at the control points. Inserting Routing Ranges Routing ranges are part of the routing path network. In routing ranges, connections are not routed along a routing path, but always it is the shortest possible and direct connection that is routed. This way, for example, it possible to implement wiring on the back of a mounting panel. Inserting Wiring Cut-outs Wiring cut-outs are used to steer connections during routing to the back of a mounting panel or of a door. 45

46 Using Connection Filters Wire ducts, routing paths, routing ranges, and wiring cut-outs have the Connection filter property. The connection filter is used for routing to control which connections may be routed through the routing track. The criteria and the associated values can be defined and can, for example, be color assignments of wires or voltage values. The assignment of values to the connections to be routed is purely textual. Free text is used to define the values, but it must also be added to the connection parts. Generating a Routing Path Network The graphical objects in the layout space are the basis for creating the routing path network in which the connection is routed. Wire ducts are equipped automatically with routing paths in the process. Wire ducts do not necessarily have to be placed at a distance = 0 from the next channel to locate a connection between channels. A corresponding project setting can be used to set the distance tolerance that is to be bridged in routing between ducts. By adding appropriate routing paths, the routing path network can be extended, or several individual areas can be connected to each other, e.g., mounting panel and door. After modifying the course of the routing paths, the routing path network has to be generated anew. Displaying Routing Path View Routing path view is defined as the highlighting of the currently valid routing path network. The routing path view can be displayed in full or filtered through the respective valid connection filter. 46

47 Optimizing Nets Automatically With automatic optimization, the connections of the net / daisy chains are redesigned in such a way that the following conditions are met: All connection points continue to be connected. The sum of the wires to be routed is a short as possible. No more than connections terminate in a connection point. A daisy chain is always generated. Connection Filter for Routing Path View In connection with the display of the routing path view, you can set in the connection filter the criteria to be considered for the routing path view. Connections that correspond to the activated criteria are hidden. Non-activated ones are displayed transparently. Routing Connections Routing generates routing connections between the 3D part placements that follow the real course of the wires and cables in the routing path network. If there are no connection points defined for a suitable part placement, they will be generated prior to the routing. Apart from the routing track, the length of wires is also determined. All information thus determined can be used as wiring instructions or to control wire fabrication machines. Routing Connections Freely The function for the free routing of connections allows you to route wire, cable or also tube connections freely in the layout space without any prior definition of a routing path network or the use of wire ducts. Freely routed connections can be realized as wires and cables between electrical engineering items as well as tubes between Fluid power items. 47

48 Free routing of connections forms part of the extension module "EPLAN Pro Panel - Process Wiring". Changing Routing Tracks The routing track of a connection determined by routing can be influenced by modifying the route. Use the Routing points to modify a route. These points are displayed during manual modifications to the route. By moving a routing point to another, it is possible to modify the routing path of connections. If several connections run through the routing path or duct, a selection dialog will be displayed where you choose the connection that is to be moved into the new routing path / new duct. Displaying Fill Capacity After connections have been routed, the system knows the wire ducts and routing paths through which the wires run. If the dimensions of the wire ducts and external diameters of the wires are known, the system can estimate whether the routing paths are dimensioned sufficiently large in order to accommodate all wires. As the number of connections increases, so does also the number of wires in the wire duct increase. This can create space problems particularly in the junction area of wire ducts. The "Display fill capacity" function provides feedback on the space reserves in wire ducts and manual routing paths. This way, the user can see where specific routes have to be modified in order to force routing through less crowded routing paths even if another path would be shorter, but would result in over-allocation. In the case of automatic routing paths (wire ducts), the cross-section available to the routed connections is calculated from the dimensions of the wire ducts involved. This cross-section can be carried over to manual routing paths if they are connected to an automatic routing path. If not, then you have to enter a default value in the "Cross-section" routing path property. The actual fill capacity is calculated from the available cross-section of the routing paths and the crosssection that is taken up by the routed connections. The fill capacity limit and alert limit are project settings and thus adjustable. 48

49 Updating the Fill Capacity After each modification to the routing path network of routed connections, the fill capacity has to be calculated again. Bundling Connections The option of organizing and combining wires routed consecutively or in parallel into bundles and of making them available as labeled bundles for wiring accelerates the wiring process and streamlines further the entire enclosure manufacture. There are two methods for bundling routing connections: In the case of Automatic bundling, bundle numbers are determined by the program and written into the "Bundle" property of the routing connections. In the case of Manual bundling, bundle numbers are entered by the user manually in the "Bundle" property of the routing connections. Using the interfaces for wire fabrication, you can evaluate this information and transfer to the manufacturing robots that produce the appropriate combined and labeled bundles. Generating Manufacturing Data for Wire Fabrication Machines Through optional interfaces EPLAN allows for the output of manufacturing data for wire fabrication machines of different manufacturers and for sharing it with service providers: CadCabel Komax Metzner (Triathlon Kabelcenter) Schleuniger (Easy Production Server) Steinhauer (Personal Wiring Assistant) 49

50 Each of these formats must be licensed as separate interfaces. In addition, it is possible to configure and output a "General wires parts list". The exported file can be used by manufacturing machines, which interpret this format, for the purposes of automatic cutting to length, labeling and production of conductor ends of cables. The wires parts list contains the information on connections between devices, their part numbers, their flows and length: Wire number Starting device with unique DT Connecting point of such device Target device with unique DT Connecting point of such device Part number of the wire Length of wire Starting direction from the connecting point of the first device End direction to the connecting point of the second device Bundle number. EPLAN Project Processing Importing Devices The optional extension module makes it possible to import data from external programs (other CAE systems, ERP systems, MS Excel, etc.) into an EPLAN project. It is possible on the basis of these imported device data to create a mounting layout including routing connections even without a schematic. In addition to the device tag lists, terminal lists and wiring lists with the file name extensions TXT and CSV, as well as text files with the file name extension ASC are imported. MS Excel files can furthermore be read in directly. 50

51 Importing with a sequence of various dialogs and status recognition makes it possible for you to control the import process interactively. A synchronization dialog can be used to define which of the available data are to be imported. It is also possible to delete devices or routing connections that only exist in the EPLAN project. Assigning a part Suitable parts from the EPLAN parts management can be assigned to the data to be imported, if part numbers which do not exist in the EPLAN parts management are assigned to the devices / routing connections in the external data source, or if no part numbers are assigned. Multi-line main functions with one or several parts arise in the EPLAN project through the import of the device tag list. These parts are placed manually in the layout space. In the second step, the routing connections are imported. Non-routed routing connections result. Precondition: Both the source and the target of the imported routing connections are defined and are found. The following properties are supported for devices: DT (full) (for terminals including the designation) Part number Level (terminals) Function category Function group Function definition. 51

52 The following properties are supported for routing connections: DT (full) Part number Function definition Source (separator colon) Target (separator colon) Internal / External source (terminals) Internal / External target (terminals) Connection color / number Connection: Cross-section / diameter Connection designation. EPLAN Copper Design of Busbars and Flexible Current Distributors Using the optional "EPLAN Copper" extension module, you can construct freely individual copper rails and connection elements. The necessary expertise about materials, manufacturing techniques or manufacturing machines can be stored in EPLAN, and can be utilized as part of special planning assistance and to verify the construction. Potential disturbances are identified early on in the 3D prototype this accelerates the process of switchgear construction and allows for project resources to be scaled. EPLAN Copper offers you the following options: Configuration of busbar systems on the basis of system technology components of various busbar system manufacturers such as Rittal. Precondition: The manufacturer data are available in EPLAN and are provided in suitable form through the parts and accessories management. The shape and form of copper items can be defined individually and adjusted for the circumstances in the enclosure. 52

53 Length and angle changes and associated moving of bending positions can be effected directly on the item by moving the cursor, without any detours via parameter dialogs. This allows for actual designing in the mounting environment. The manufacturing data of the individually constructed copper items are provided via special machine interfaces and transferred to cutting, bending, milling, punching, or also drilling machines. Standardized copper items that are to be purchased in a fixed preset form are assigned the "Prefabricated" property. This makes it possible to control that the copper items cannot be modified after the placement. Engineering of power distribution and busbar systems consists of the following working steps: Create a form (path of the rectangular profile form to shape the copper rail) in the outline editor. Place a "Busbar (bending)"; in the process, a rail part of defined height and width is selected, a form is assigned, and a bending radius is determined for the bending positions. Modify the length, angle and bending positions at the placed rail; adjust for the specific spatial circumstances in the enclosure; in the process, the "unfolded total length" of the copper item is calculated and updated permanently. Copy, rotate, move the placed rail. Place other rails; this generates copper bundles. Create report on copper parts (mounting list). Unfold bent rails; this takes into account bending radii, material stretching and compression. Transfer unfold to manufacturing machines. 53

54 Creating Manufacturing Data for the Processing Machines The optional interfaces allow EPLAN to output manufacturing data for NC-supported machining of copper rails for various manufacturers. The data format of the Copper NC interface is manufacturer-neutral and can be adapted by machine manufacturers. Each of the following export interfaces has to be licensed separately: EPLAN Production Copper NC EPLAN Production Copper DXF EPLAN 3D Data Export Exporting EPLAN Data to 3D PDF The EPLAN PDF export provides the option of outputting the 3D contents of the layout spaces of a project in addition to the pages of an EPLAN project. In the case of a PDF export of the layout spaces, one additional page will then be added at the end of the page data for each layout space. Free viewers, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, make it possible to display the embedded 3D data of the PDF file, to rotate the contained 3D mounting layouts or to navigate in the shown model structure. The respective display and navigation possibilities depend on the viewer. 54

55 Exporting 3D Graphic Data in VRML Format The VRML export writes the geometry of a layout space's 3D components into a file in the VRML format. The exported data is displayed as 3D models in browsers, and there can be rotated all around and zoomed. Exporting 3D Graphic Data in STEP Format The STEP export writes the geometry of a layout space's 3D components into a file in the STEP format. Information about the solids, analytic surfaces and volumes is transferred in as far as it is available in the EPLAN 3D macro. The exported data can be imported into external CAD systems and be visualized there. 55