Eplan is presenting the next expansion stage of its automation software in a sneak preview at the Hannover Messe. In addition to extended functionality in the area of interfaces and instantiation, Cogineer Advanced features separate licensing of the two functional areas Designer and Project Builder. This means that models created in Designer can only be edited by those users in Designer who have access to them via a new rights management system. This fulfills a key aspect in terms of data security. The new business model is also interesting: with version 2.8, which is expected to be available in late summer, the software will be completely cloud-based and usable as "software as a service".

XML interface for process integration

Dynamic configuration

Another new function is the option to instantiate typical elements. During a configuration process, the user can dynamically select which sub-functions or sub-circuits they want to use in the structure indicators of a project. The multiple use of partial and complete functions is also supported. The instantiation of these typical elements can also be controlled directly by importing an XML file created upstream. The great advantage of instantiating typical elements: There is no need to create a separate 100% configuration for each variant and structure of a target project. This is an enormous advantage, especially in plant engineering, where no two document structures of a project are the same. Plant engineers and system integrators save a lot of time if they can reuse parts of a configuration.

The system thinks for itself

The entry of logical dependencies and formulas has been made considerably easier in all versions. In future, a new formula wizard will ensure that logical conditions and formulas - i.e. the entire dependencies of a function or function group - can be entered even more easily and, above all, without errors. Depending on the type of a configuration variable, only the operands permitted for the respective type are offered. At the same time, the formula wizard suggests all available variable names "live" during input. Typing errors during input are therefore ruled out, which ensures a consistently high quality of project planning. kp

Smart Automation Vienna, Hall A, Stand A0219