CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION : PRODUCTS + SERVICES
Enabling project collaboration in the cloud
Following the free version of eManage which was made available last year, allowing users to upload, share and manage EPLAN Platform projects in the cloud environment, EPLAN introduced the full version of the software in September, with the release of the new EPLAN Platform 2022. The fee-based expansion stage of the cloud software offers more added value for automation engineering: master data can be accessed in the cloud as can supplementary documents, and performance is increased with additional capacity. Collaboration is at the core of the application, networking OEMs, system integrators, machine builders and operators. Full information access Generally, to date, if a project is shared in the cloud the schematics are visible, but not all the accompanying documentation. With the full version of EPLAN eManage, project stakeholders are provided access to all data and documentation relevant to the project, including bills of materials as well as neutral documents in Excel. These be- come interchangeable with a uniform foundation of data. EPLAN Head of Engineering Solutions, Claas Schreibmüller explains: “The complete overview of customer requirements and project requirements provides more transparency for all stakeholders involved in developing a machine or plant system.” Appropriate rights management ensures that data access can be precisely regulated. Master data available Many people are working from home these days and this is where users often bump up against system limits. While they may be able to access a project, often they cannot access the corresponding master data that is specified as a standard throughout a company for design projects. EPLAN eManage now offers the exchange of system- relevant master data, which can be easily retrieved and, as necessary, taken along according to the ‘pack and go’ principle. Project managers can easily make master data centrally available. Schreibmüller puts it simply:
Collaboration is at the core of the new full version of EPLAN eManage. “Wherever the user works, all relevant master data can be accessed and does not have to be laboriously copied.” Backwards compatibility Particular version requirements in supplier specifications or calls for proposals mean project partners are often faced with the challenge of using several different versions of EPLAN software. With the new version of eManage, projects from the EPLAN Platform 2022 can, as an example, be saved to be backwards compatible, for Version 2.9, for example. This eliminates the need to maintain multiple versions of the EPLAN software without violating contract terms and simplifies the entire workflow in the supplier environment. More storage With the full version of eManage, users gain additional storage capacity in the EPLAN Cloud. This is available to everyone in the company and is an active collaboration environment and not just storage capacity. It enables optimal conditions for global collaboration across national borders. For more information contact EPLAN Software & Service. Tel: +27 (0)11 609 8294
Email: Reyneke.J@eplan.co.za Visit: www.eplan.co.zaCaptions
A low-risk incremental approach to smart manufacturing
Smart manufacturing strategies have been evolving over the past decade among large corporations, and many small and medium manufacturers (SMMs) might not re- alise that these strategies are equally applicable to them and are within reach when implemented in practical steps. MESA, the international Manufacturing Enterprise Solutions Association, has produced a guidebook which looks at how SMMs have been implementing smart man- ufacturing initiatives and seeing the benefits of increased transparency and productivity, as well as the transform- ative benefits of higher levels of coordination and speed within the enterprise and supply chain.
The guidebook is intended for business owners and champions for digital transformation and continuous improvement among operations, engi- neering, quality, and IT staff.
The guidebook can be download- ed from the MESA website. For some MESA memberships it is available free of charge or at a discount. Companies looking to join MESA can do so via the website.
MESA has developed a guidebook to assist manufacturers looking to implement smart manufacturing.
For more information visit: https://mesa.org
MARCH 2022 Electricity + Control
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