Smart Data: From Design to Production

Fortunately, there is a simple solution. Eplan's solutions will help control panel manufacturers grow their business by increasing productivity and output.   

By integrating Eplan ECAD software and Rittal's automation equipment, control panel manufacturers can dramatically boost productivity. Your teams will achieve far more within tighter time limits, at lower cost, and with fewer mistakes.   

Rittal and Eplan combine their industrial expertise and technological skills to assist businesses in automating their value chain processes. They streamline and speed up processes at every phase: from engineering, to procurement and manufacturing, through to operation. 

As industry evolves to meet modern needs, manufacturing data is increasingly important. which is a key theme in the Rittal Application Centre, based at Rittal and Eplan’s Rotherham site.

Automation: The Future of the Electrical Design Process

When standardising the process of electrical engineering the work begins at the design project planning phase. A design engineer could utilise electrical computer aided design software like Eplan eBuild. All they need to do when using this configurator is click the relevant functions, key data, variants and operations. You can generate wiring plans, parts list and other documents on an automated basis.

Continuous data transfer from design to production ensures the engineer's ideas are clear at every stage. Rittal has developed intelligent production machines that respond to Eplan's output data and engineering software.

Panel builders can use Eplan Pro Panel electrical design software to design their cabinets in 3D. Then, electrical engineers can send the data from these 3D models to a CNC milling terminal or laser centre. This means they can drill, tap, or cut out enclosure components. 

Less experienced team members can easily operate Rittal’s automation equipment which reduces repetitive manual tasks in panel building. This saves time on drilling, crimping, and wiring while ensuring error-free results. As a result, your skilled electrical engineers can focus on more strategic aspects of client support and business growth.

3D Models, Assistance Applications & Automation 

Eplan's ECAD technology empowers electrical engineers to create and modify 3D control panel layouts. It allows for the creation of manufacturing drawings, cable duct cutting lists, and precise 3D cable routing. Engineers can also accurately label components and position cables and parts within the virtual models.

You can export this data as technical specifications and blueprints for automated production equipment. This enables the equipment to manufacture the panels, such as drilling mounting plates and accurately cutting and crimping cables.

The automation process can reduce errors, accelerate production times and increase customer satisfaction. This approach can create more time for the business to take on extra projects, maximising your profitability and competitiveness.

Automated Panel Production Stages

1. Once you set the mounting plate, the manufacturing system takes charge. The 3D model data instructs where to automatically drill holes, mill threads, and cut notches. This process entirely bypasses the risk of mistakes from manual data entry.
   
   
2. The Rittal Wire Terminal, using data from the Eplan virtual prototype, handles all aspects of cable preparation automatically. By running this process in parallel with cabinet modifications, it minimizes cabling waste and enhances production speed.
   
   
3. Digital guidance via tablets or monitors assists technicians in the manual assembly and wiring of control panels. This system allows several team members, even those with little experience, to work efficiently on multiple panels. The software updates the status which you can monitor on a progress tracking dashboard.
   
   

1. Certain Rittal control panels feature QR codes. Here you can find updated maintenance and servicing instructions, as well as plant system documentation. This digital approach significantly reduces the client's paperwork burden.

Conclusion: Why Should You Make The Switch?

The integration of EPLAN's ECAD software with Rittal's automation equipment represents a solution for control panel manufacturers facing today's industry challenges. This powerful combination streamlines the entire process from design to production, offering significant benefits like reduced errors and faster project completion.

By embracing digitalisation, control panel manufacturers can overcome the "perfect storm" of skilled labor shortages and increasing client demands. This shift also allows these businesses to position themselves for future growth. Eplan and Rittal's integration allow businesses to take on more projects, improve profitability, and enhance their competitive edge. Those who adopt these advanced solutions will be better situated for the future of the electrical engineering industry.