Mechatronic configuration is one of the core topics within the spectrum of services of EPLAN Engineering Center. The product is being renamed at the start of SPS IPC Drives to EPLAN Engineering Configuration, or “EEC” for short – the same abbreviation as before. Configuration as a core functionality will now be reflected in the product name. For many years, EPLAN has been offering integrated mechatronic configuration solutions through EEC that can be used to configure components, machines and even complex installation projects. The decision to rename the EEC product was driven by the benefits it offers customers:
- EPLAN represents “efficient engineering” – standardisation and modularisation via configuration are a decisive step in this direction.
- The consistency of the configuration across all engineering disciplines, including mechanics, electrics and software, makes forward-looking mechatronic configuration possible.
Along with the name change, the EEC version number will be synchronised with that of the EPLAN Platform. The coming release will premiere at SPS IPC Drives and be released as Version 2.4. Users who want to use EEC to generate schematics and 3D assembly layouts through the platform systems will benefit from the uniform versions. Assignment to the platform’s systems – specifically EPLAN Electric P8 and EPLAN Pro Panel – has been simplified accordingly.
The new version of the configuration solution naturally builds on proven technology. User benefits include the ability to continue using models from previous versions of EEC. Also being launched with EEC Version 2.4 is a series of new functionalities that will save companies time: along with consistently optimised SAP integration, the new version of EEC also has a standard job server that allows customer-specific IT workflows around EEC to be efficiently integrated into existing IT landscapes. And EEC One – the introductory system for standardisation and automation based on Excel technology – is also being renamed as part of this harmonisation process. But automation in engineering is still paramount. One of the highlights of the new version is a direct coupling with EPLAN Pro Panel, the 3D system for enclosure engineering.
