|
Product development circle closed
Under the new EPLAN development platform, electrical project planning, fluid engineering and instrumentation & control are now able collaborate directly with one another for the first time. All systems are supplied by the same database, and based on a uniform platform. In an unprecedented development, all disciplines are directly linked to one another without additional interfaces. From now on, multiple data entry and inconsistencies belong firmly in the past.
New performance dimension in data handling
The EPLAN platform technology creates the foundations for efficient cooperation between different disciplines. The modular platform provides a range of core functions which are essential for electrical CAE, fluid engineering and instrumentation & control. Data handling enters a new performance dimension. As well as a uniform database, the platform also includes basic functions such as the graphical editor (e.g. for wiring schematics, fluid diagrams, P&ID), a uniform rights administration system, the viewer facility, online foreign language translation, and the comprehensive revision management system.
The unique framework concept is sure to impress users with its rapid results – not least thanks to the uniform look & feel throughout all applications. The new platform integrates the full range of CAx solutions from EPLAN Software & Service. EPLAN Electric P8, one of the representatives of this latest generation, is based on the new platform. The direct, unrestricted link with fluid engineering – specifically with EPLAN Fluid (formerly fluidPLAN) – has perfected the combination of hardware design and fluid engineering. The uniform database and object orientation support online references between different document types. Amendments to one point are immediately made available to all relevant functions – regardless of whether the discipline in question is electrical or fluid engineering.
The instrumentation and control industry also benefits from direct communication with EPLAN PPE. In collaboration with EPLAN Electric P8, both systems operate on the same, uniform database. The electrical instrumentation & control and electrical engineering sectors are now fully integrated. Changes to the P&ID or loops are always integrated and consistent, whatever their location.
Open for further integration
Thanks to its openness based on the API interface, the EPLAN platform technology offers the opportunity of integrating engineering tools from other disciplines. As well as other products from EPLAN Software & Service, tools from third-party suppliers may also be incorporated. This is the next step toward greater integration and direct interaction between the disciplines.
Interaction is the key
Machinery and plant are mechatronic system solutions. Each participating discipline must be individually suited to the respective product requirement in order to function correctly. The control software must be just as functional and convincing as the hardware concept. The same goes for sensors, actuators, cabling, enclosure configuration, or hosing between fluid components. However, this in itself is not enough: Ultimately, the challenge lies in the interaction between these isolated solutions. Effective, holistic engineering cannot be achieved without functioning interaction.
Discipline-specific engineering a thing of the past
Most engineering is the result of individual, discipline-related activities. In the past, this meant that isolated CAx solutions designed for the specific application in question were used. However, certain types of data may be used on a cross-disciplinary basis, which inevitably leads us to consider ways of gaining access to such data – via the use of corresponding interfaces, for example. Nevertheless, certain restrictions remain, such as data inconsistencies or the technical linking of data between disciplines.
Summary: Thanks to the new EPLAN platform technology, users can wave farewell to earlier engineering limitations. Former stand-alone disciplines are now combined into a powerful, all-round engineering approach - using the same database, making them more secure, faster and more efficient than ever before.* EPLAN Electric P8, EPLAN Fluid and EPLAN PPE, all running on a uniquely integrated platform, will be introduced for the first time at this year’s HMI.
EPLAN Software & Service, April 2006
|
