Electricity and Control September 2020

CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION

Accessing design data in the cloud

The newest version of EPLAN Data Portal provides users with component and device data for design engineering over the web. Released in June 2020, the portal is now integrated into the EPLAN ePulse cloud environment. Electrical engineers and fluid design engineers can select the device data they need and transfer it directly into their EPLAN Projects, reducing the effort needed for design engineering and ensuring standardised data for documentation.

Director Cloud Business Master

Data Timm Hauschke.

U sers of the current EPLAN Platform, Version 2.9, can access the new EPLAN Data Portal after registering on the ePulse website and they benefit from immediate online access to high quality product catalogues from a continually growing pool of well-known component manufacturers. Director Cloud Business Master Data, Timm Hauschke says: “The direct transfer of the offered component data into the EPLAN documentation reduces the effort required for designing for our customers and increases the quality of documentation for machines and plant systems.” All solutions anchored in the EPLAN platform have equal access to the web service. Working faster A completely new user interface with intuitive search and smart suggestion functions makes it easier for design engineers to use and navigate through the comprehensive range of stored device data fast and conveniently. The intuitive search function offers prompt and practical support. The suggestion function – for instance, for product groups, components or manufacturers – is similar to common search engines. This saves time for users when they are designing and enables quick results. Another practical benefit: calculation programs such as Rittal Therm, or selectors from Schneider Electric, have already been integrated with the manufacturers’ designs, making it easier to select the right product. Users can find what they´re looking for in a more targeted way and can discover useful additions or alternatives easily. Current data in the cloud The integration of EPLAN Data Portal into EPLAN ePulse offers a number of immediate advantages. Updates can be imported at any time – whether it be in the application itself or in the portfolio of more than three hundred component manufacturers that already offer data on around one million devices for direct download. Additionally, more than 1.5 million variants of devices can be called up via integrated configurators. Another practical benefit for users is that their software is always up-to-date in the cloud environment.

Standard ensures depth of data Standardised component data is indispensable for creating efficient processes. When control cabinets are being designed in 3D, wire lengths automatically calculated, or mounting plates processed by machines, standardised device data is required. As Hauschke explains: “The EPLAN Data Standard supplements proven classification standards for device data, such as eCl@ss Advanced, by making them suitable for practical use. It ensures the consistent use of data throughout engineering and manufacturing processes – moving towards a fully integrated value chain.” With the representation of a device in various system diagrams being based on a uniform data source, users gain considerable time savings that have an effect from the start of project planning through to commissioning. □

The new data portal is integrated directly into the EPLAN ePulse cloud environment. The new user interface makes using the portal easy, fast and convenient.

EPLAN Data Portal is a portal for exchange between component manufacturers and electrical engineers and fluid design engineers, providing master data for downloading. As well as alphanumeric component data, it includes schematic macros, device information, preview images, documentation and additional information.

For more information visit: www.eplan.co.za

5 Electricity + Control SEPTEMBER 2020