Volkswagen recently released the sixth generation of its Volkswagen Audi Seat Skoda Standard (VASS), which includes an update to Eplan Version 2.9. The standard used in production plants for models on the MEB platform has also been expanded with 3D functionality in switchgear system engineering and with data for bi-directional exchange with PLC project planning tools. The new VX25 control cabinet system from Rittal has also been integrated into the standard.

Volkswagen’s decision to start providing its suppliers with 3D data based on Eplan Pro Panel in the VASS standard libraries means that the complete digital twins of control cabinets and the installed components can be depicted. Previously, only 2D representations from Eplan Electric P8 were included in the standard. For suppliers, this creates the foundation for entering and expanding automated manufacturing steps in control cabinet and switchgear system engineering from mechanical NC machining to automated terminal assembly to wire processing and wiring support. Companies benefit from the fully developed design templates provided by Volkswagen that can be used as a basis for faster and higher-quality system engineering, manufacturing, and commissioning.

In this backdrop Andreas Bamberg, Strategic Account Manager, EPLAN stressed, “The additional 3D functionality from Eplan Pro Panel makes it possible to directly derive manufacturing information for automated control cabinet and switchgear system engineering. Engineering offices further benefit from the integrated collision check and thermal power dissipation considerations for components, enabling optimized component placement in the cabinet and a more energy-efficient design for Rittal climate control systems.”

To this added, Markus Hülsmann, Global Key Account Manager Automotive, Rittal, “The current release of the VASS V6 library delivers fully integrated reference control cabinets in 3D based on the new Rittal VX25 control cabinet system. This considerably reduces the work required in engineering since the components can start being placed directly in the cabinet after just a few clicks.”

Future VASS releases will include libraries expansions with the Rittal AX and KS enclosures and the respective sample assemblies. Associated enclosure macros in 3D are already available in Eplan Data Portal and can be used when designing with Pro Panel.

Automobile production is becoming increasingly challenging, including ever shorter start-up times, individualized design efforts, new control technologies and high demands on maintenance and repair to name just a few. Volkswagen is diligently working on further developing automation standards, which are then passed down to the company’s suppliers.

Daniel Gräser from the Manufacturing Automation and Digital Production division at Volkswagen shared, “This expansion of the VASS Standard with the newest aspects of Eplan’s engineering software and Rittal’s state-of-the-art system technology means we are ideally supporting our suppliers in realizing digital and automated manufacturing processes.” The digital twin of the control cabinet as part of the production process is an essential foundation for fully digital operating and maintenance processes of the future.

For more information: www.eplan-software.com