Working With Eplan Propanel

EPLAN project
EPLAN parts management

EPLAN Data Portal
EPLAN Pro Panel

Pro Panel
electrical devices
fluid power devices
mechanics components: cable ducts
mounting rails and panels; enclosure
Control Panel
In EPLAN PROPANEL you construct complex 3D mounting layouts of control panels by placing electrical
engineering and fluid power devices from the EPLAN project, parts management or from the Data Portal
also mechanical components such as cable ducts, mounting rails and panels or an entire enclosure are
placed to finish off the design.
You can generate 2D model views of the mounting panels and enclosures mounted in the layout space,
and these are inserted on project pages. Reports such as enclosure legends and bills of materials are
useful for calculating and planning materials requirements.
Layout space navigator
Presents a logical overview of your project data within a 3D mounting layout and allows you to:
create layout spaces in order to view and to place devices independently of project pages in a
3D view.
activate mounting spaces for placing devices
filter the display and switch between Tree and List views
3D mounting layout navigator

This is used to list the devices available in the project so that they can be placed in a layout space.
Note:
The layout space navigator and the 3D mounting layout navigator are the central tools for configuring
layout diagrams for mounting panel in the 3D mounting layout
The layout space navigator lists the layout spaces and their structure
The 3D mounting layout navigator lists the intended equipment items
The layout space navigator shows the hierarchical dependencies between all the items. If a superior
item (such as a mounting rail) is moved or deleted, the devices that are placed on it will be moved or
deleted as well.
Layout space
This is the 3D display area that shows the placed device. This display is independent of any project page.
The 3D model is displayed in a layout space that allows the 3D bodies and their editing to be viewed in
isometric view with shading (body surfaces filled with color and shaded differently according to the
angle). It therefore required that to work with 3D components that a layout space be first created in the
layout space navigator. This is the environment for the 3D data and the functional logic that connects it.
You can insert, edit, delete, or place devices in the layout spaces.
Layout space navigator with tree structure (left) and layout space (right)
You can delete layout spaces from the project without at the same time removing the devices contained
in the layout spaces from the project.
3D Macros
3D macros can be generated in the following ways
Manually by saving selected objects from a layout space
Manually or automatically from imported STEP files (*.ema only)
Manually or automatically from a macro project.
Note:
3D macros are managed in a macro project.
3D window macros (*.ema) and 3D symbol macros (*.ems) can be generated and used.
3D macros are assigned to a part in the parts management. This allows the part to be displayed
in a detailed and realistic manner. If there is no graphic macro for the part, the graphic is
implemented as a cuboid by entering the height, width, and depth.
If the 3D macro is assigned to an enclosure, then the graphic of the enclosure is not generated
automatically on placement; instead the content of the graphical macro defines the graphic.
For the sake of optimal performance you should save 2D and 3D data in separate macro files. This way
you can ensure that 2D users do not necessarily have to access the extensive 3D data volume. The files
could be distinguished, for example, on the basis of name extensions (e.g., 3D macro
ABC.12345_3D.ema and the corresponding 2D macro ABC.12345_2D.ema).
In all actions in the 3D environment for which a part macro is used (e.g., Insert devices), it is the
"graphical part macro" that is checked first. If on the Mounting data tab a graphical macro has been
entered for the part, and if it contains the desired "3D mounting layout" representation type, this macro
will be used. If not, the "technical part macro" defined on the Technical data tab will be used.
3D macros in the layout space
Device Logic
3D mechanical or electromechanical devices that are to be used in the 3D mounting layout must have
the following properties (device logic) that allow them to be used in the mounting layout:
The objects can be placed in the layout space and on other objects.
Other objects can be placed on the 3D objects.
The placed objects fit in with the logical structure of the items.
There are a number of functions available for creating and editing the device logic. These functions are
used following the use of graphical import and editing functions and prepare the 3D graphic - which
immediately after import has no logic functions - for use as a 3D macro for devices. To ensure correct
placement it is necessary as a minimum to define a placement area; the other logic functions are
optional.
Graphic definition for devices
The following functions define a 3D graphic:
Layout space > Import > 3D graphic
Edit > Graphic > Unite
Edit > Graphic > Rotate around axis
These functions can be used in the schematic project and in the 3D macro project.
Logic definition for devices
The following functions define the device logic. They can be accessed under the Edit > Device logic menu
items. The points and surfaces defined with the following functions are only visible in a 3D macro
project:
Placement area > Define / Turn around / Move / Rotate: Definition of an area on an item on
which the 3D object itself is placed and aligned.
Mounting point: Definition of points which as 3D snap points allow other components to dock to
the 3D object.
The following functions can be used in the schematic project and in the 3D macro project:
Mounting surface: Definition of surfaces on which components can be placed; these surfaces are
found by automatic activation or can be selectively activated.
Handle: Definition of points by which the 3D object is moved on the cursor on placement; these
points can dock to other 3D objects if placed on 3D snap points.
Base points: Definition of points on which accessory parts can be placed automatically at fixed
defined positions in enclosures.
Handles and mounting points: Interactive points, lines, and areas in the device logic
The functions for defining the device logic work with interactive points, lines, and areas. User-defined
points and surfaces can be used to create dependencies in the assembly of 3D components. Interactive
points can also be added if necessary to components that have been imported from external 3D CAD
systems using the STEP exchange format, to control placing options or to define degrees of freedom in
the rotation and alignment of components to one another.
Interactive points always consist of two corresponding parts:
Handles look for associated mounting points. They define points or areas which can only be
moved and placed on the corresponding mounting points.
Mounting points and mounting surfaces only allow the associated handle to be snapped to,
moved to and placed on them. Mounting points may be points, lines, or areas.
Base Points: Principle

Base points are components of the device logic that are used in working with enclosure accessories.
Base points are fixed defined mounting points in a layout space. You can use base points to install
enclosure items (e.g., side panels, base) at a fixed defined location in the accessories management.
These items cannot be moved subsequently anymore.
A distinction is made between automatically generated base points and user-defined base points. You
can use automatic base points to place enclosures and matching accessories from accessories
management, without having to generate detailed macros for this purpose. But there is also the option
to store user-defined base points in a macro and to use them in accessories management as the
property of an accessory placement.
Automatic base points
Automatic base points are generated for all enclosures that are generated directly without macro from
the parts database. (Product group "Enclosure", Product subgroup "Component" and "Body"). The
automatic base points are used only for the automatic placement of the accessories and are not
calculated in the event of a manual placement.
In the data transfer of accessory parts from EPLAN Cabinet, the existing base points are applied and
converted to automatic base points.
Automatic base points are generated at the following part placements:
Frame profile horizontal floor
The following base points are generated:
Frame profile down: Left front
Frame profile down: Left rear
Frame profile down: Right front
Frame profile down: Right rear.
Frame profile horizontal cover

The following base points are generated:
Frame profile up: Left front
Frame profile up: Left rear
Frame profile up: Right front
Frame profile up: Right rear.
User-defined base points

User-defined base points are mounting points manually placed in a macro by the user with predefined
properties. They can be inserted via the Edit > Device logic > Base points menu items.
Similar to the definition of mounting points, a point is selected in the layout space at which the base
point is to be defined. Placement options can be used for this. In the Properties: Base point dialog that is
displayed subsequently, all base points are shown as available that are also generated as automatic base
points.
Base point scheme
For enclosures that have been imported in the layout space as STEP data, all base points must be placed
manually. However, base points for Rittal enclosure series (e.g., "TS8") are always at the same positions.
In connection with the creation of enclosures of the Rittal series "TS8", "AE", and "CM", it is possible to
place the base points automatically in a manner suitable for the enclosure series. Using the Edit > Device
logic > Transfer base point scheme menu items, the base points are generated automatically in a
manner suitable for the selected enclosure series.
Automatic Enclosure Interpretation: Principle
Automatic enclosure interpretation transfers the existing logic of an enclosure to another enclosure of
the same design. The objective is to minimize the expenditure of related to the creation of master data.
The preparatory step is always the detailed manual assignment of the logic to the first enclosure of the
design with the functions of the device logic:
Import of the 3D graphic via interfaces (e.g., STEP)
Definition of the individual items of the enclosure (function definition, layer, transparency, etc.)
Definition of the placement area
Definition of mounting surfaces on the items.
The first enclosure of a design defined in this way will be used as a model for the automatic definition of
the other enclosures of this design. You must keep in mind that this sample enclosure and subsequently
defined enclosures must always be of the same design (e.g., AE, CM, TS8).
After the sample enclosure has been defined, Automatic enclosure interpretation is launched. An item
definition "Enclosure" is generated from the items selected in the layout space. The following properties
are defined automatically:
Function definition: Enclosure, general
Item designation: Enclosure
Transparency: From layer
Color: From layer
Layer: EPLAN560, 3D graphic. Enclosure.
Then, you must select the sample enclosure whose logic is to be transferred to the new item definition.
In the last step, the program analyzes the sample enclosure and the new enclosure, and defines
automatically at the new enclosure the items including mounting surfaces as well as all other properties:
Function definition
Mounting surfaces
Transparency
Color
Layer
Item designation
Item description
Property Item is fastened unmovably to the superior item
Property arrangements.
Limitations in the application of automatic enclosure interpretation can occur in case of different
numbers of doors or significant differences in size between the model enclosure and target enclosure. In
this case, some items may not be able to be assigned, so that these items may have to be defined
manually at the target enclosure.
Mounting Lists: Principle
In EPLAN Pro Panel, you can generate the Mounting list report for 3D part placements of a layout space.
Mounting lists are used to map in a report the hierarchical structure of a mounting layout in the layout
space. The report can be done for a very specific part placement (mounting panel, enclosure, busbar,
etc.).
In such a function-based report, the 3D part placements are evaluated for which the Create mounting
list (ID 36032) property has been activated in the property dialog. This property can be selected via
property selection for all 3D objects (except for mounting surfaces). For a device with the activated
property, all devices of the hierarchy level immediately below are listed in the output mounting list. The
listed objects are sorted by legend item by default.
To create a mounting list, you can use the "Mounting list" report type available from the Select report
dialog. As with other function-related reports, too, when outputting the mounting list you can make a
manual selection. In the subsequent Manual selection dialog, all 3D part placements are listed for which
the Create mounting list property has been activated.
Example:
If the Create mounting list property has been activated, for example, for an enclosure, the device data of
the enclosure will be output to the header of the report. In the data area, all devices are listed that are
arranged in the layout space in the hierarchy level immediately below this enclosure.
For a mounting panel placed in this enclosure, the related devices located on a lower hierarchy level are
not output. If this is to be done, the Create mounting list property will have to be activated also for the
mounting panel. In this case, a second mounting list with the data of the mounting panel and the
devices placed on it will be output.

Forms for mounting lists
In creating the mounting list, the form is used that was specified in the project-specific Settings: Output
to pages dialog for the "Mounting list (*.f32)" form type. You can select placeholder texts from the
following elements for the forms of this type in the Placeholder texts - Mounting list dialog:
Parts data
Part placements
Part reference data
Device data
Record.
The same placeholder texts are available for selection in both the header and data area.
Filtering in the layout space navigator
If you want to know which devices have been set aside for the generation of the mounting list, create a
new filter for the layout space navigator and select for such filter the Create mounting list property as a
filter criterion.
Creating and Deleting a Layout Space

You can create new layout spaces or delete existing layout spaces in the Layout space navigator dialog.
But you must have at least a project opened.
Creating a layout space
Select Layout space > New: a dialog opens
Delete a layout space

Select the relevant space(s) in the Layout space navigator
Make changes to field(s) as required
Select Popup menu (right mouse click) > Delete
Enter further properties if required.
The selected layout space is deleted from the project
Click [OK].
The new layout space is opened in the graphical editor.
Note
Positioned items are not always completely removed when the layout space is deleted. If the device
concerned has also been placed at other project locations (e.g. a mounting panel in the schematic), then
it is not completely deleted; only the placement in the 3D mounting layout is deleted. The item remains
and can be placed again. If the item concerned has only been placed in the layout space (e.g. in a
mounting rail), it is completely removed once the layout space is deleted.
You can also select several layout spaces and delete them together, with Popup menu > Delete or [Del].
Opening a Layout Space (in the project and new window)/ Closing the Layout Space
You can open and close layout spaces in the 3D display area, or in a separate window from the Layout
space navigator. However you must have at least project opened with at least one layout space.
Open a layout space
Close a layout space
Select Layout space > Open.

The new layout space is opened
Select Layout space > Close.

The 3D display area of the selected layout space is closed.
Note:
You can also double-click on the layout space node in the navigator, or select Popup menu > Open
layout space.
Open layout space in new window
Select Popup menu > Open layout space in new window.
The selected layout space is shown in a separate window of the 3D display area, and opened for editing.
None of the previously active layout spaces are closed, and remain displayed
Navigating 3D View of the Layout Space
Once you have opened a project, the layout space navigator and a layout space is opened. The following
functions can be performed.
Zooming can be performed using any of the two options below
Select the menu items View > Zoom > In / Out.
The view zooms in or out, step by step, starting from the position of the coordinate system.
Hold the cursor over the 3D view and turn the mouse wheel forward or backward.
The view zooms in or out, step by step, starting from the cursor position.
Changing viewpoint
You can generate different orthogonal (top, bottom, left, right, front, back) or isometric views (southwest, south-east, north-east, north-west) of your layout space by:
Select View > 3D viewpoint.

Select one of the available views from the submenu.
The content of the layout space display is refreshed according to which view is selected.
Note: You can use the user setting Rotate when changing the viewpoints, to animate the view and is
rotated into the new position and also switch it off, so that the viewpoint is changed without rotation.
Rotate viewpoint
This allows you can change the viewpoint of the graphic by moving the mouse.
1. Select View > Rotate viewing angle.
2. Click in the 3D view and keep the left mouse button pressed.
3. Holding the button down, move the mouse in the direction in which the viewpoint is to be
changed.
The display in the layout space follows the movement of the mouse, and rotates in the
corresponding direction.
4. Once the required viewing angle is set, release the mouse button and exit the action.
The content of the layout space is displayed with the selected viewing angle until you select a
different viewpoint.
Simplified representation
Its possible to reduce the detail shown in the graphic of the parts placed in the layout space. You can
set which items are to be shown in a simplified representation using Options > Settings > User >
Graphical editing > 3D dialog:
Terminal strips (block definition)
3D macros.
These settings apply to all items already placed and to all subsequently placed items.
In the layout space navigator, right click and select Simplified representation from the popup menu.
3D macros will be replaced by rectangular bodies in the dimensions of the items previously used.
Terminal strips are combined into a block; the individual terminals are no longer displayed. The labeling
of the terminal strip is displayed instead of the labeling for the individual terminals. The position of the
components placed on the items does not change.
Changing the background colors for the 3D view

You can specify a single color or two colors (for the background to the 3D view), between which a
horizontal color gradient is generated.
1. Select Options > Settings > User > Graphical editing > 3D.
2. In the Color selection group box, use [...] in the Shading - Background 1 and Shading Background 2 fields to open the Color selection dialog.
3. Select the desired colors.
If you have selected two different colors, the background will be drawn with a color gradient.
The first color defines the starting color in the upper window pane and the second color stands
for the end color in the lower window pane. If you have selected two identical colors, the
background will be drawn with one single color.
Note: that you can also change the colors for indicating collisions and active mounting surface from the
dialog box opened above.
Display and hide drilling view
Drilling view refers to the display of all mechanical working steps (designs). This does not concern
manually placed cut-outs.
1. Select the menu items View > Drilling view.
The transparency of all part placements is set to 50%. All drilling patterns stored on the parts are
displayed on the mounting surfaces where they have been placed. The visualized drilling
patterns fully penetrate the components below to be drilled, which becomes clear in the side
view.
2. Again select the View > Drilling view menu items to hide the drilling view.
Exporting 3D Graphic Data in STEP or VRML Format
It is possible to export 3D graphic data in either STEP or VRML format using identical steps. The STEP
export writes the faceted geometry of a layout space's 3D bodies into a file in the STEP format excluding
information on analytic surfaces or volumes. The exported data can be imported into external CAD
systems or used as 3D macros or items for placement in Pro Panel projects on the basis of the STEP
import. The VRML export writes the geometry of a layout space's 3D bodies into a file in the VRML
format and can displayed as 3D models in browsers, rotated all around and zoomed. With each VRML
export, in parallel to the generated VRML file, a file is generated with the file name extension *.wri. In
there, all items that have a part number or DT are attached with a number in the form "ID000001". The
number is incremented from 1 to n.
You can adjust the settings for the STEP or VRML export under Options > Settings > User > Interfaces >
STEP or VRML export.
Once a project is opened and the layout space navigator is open, then you can do the following:
1. Select the layout space whose content is to be exported from the layout space navigator.
2. Select Layout space > Export > STEP or VRML.
The STEP or VRML export dialog is displayed.
3. In the File name field enter a name for the STEP or VRML file to be generated, or use the [...]
button to define a directory and file name.
4. Click [OK].
The 3D graphic data is exported to a STEP file or VRML file and a WRI file using the previously set
name.
Activating Mounting Surfaces Automatically

Placing devices correctly on mounting panels, mounting rails, doors, walls, etc., requires that the correct
mounting surface or item be identified for placement. Two options are available in the Layout space navigator dialog to this effect viz - activate surfaces automatically or directly.
Automatic activation is suitable for all surfaces and items that are not covered by other components.
To activate mounting surfaces automatically you must
Have a project opened.
The layout space navigator opened and a layout space opened too.
1. In the layout space navigator tree view, select the desired item or desired mounting surface.
2. Right click > Go to (graphic).
Only the item you have selected and the components arranged on it, are displayed.
3. Select the Insert > Mounting rail / Wire duct / Device menu items to call up a device or a
mechanical component for placement.
4. Select the part required for placement from the Part selection dialog.
The selected part hangs on the cursor.
5. Take the cursor over the surface to be activated or over an item placed on it.
The surface or item beneath the cursor is highlighted in color.
6. Once you have found the surface or item where you would like placement to occur, hold the
cursor still for about 1 second, without clicking or using the keyboard.
The surface or item beneath the cursor changes color. The surface or item has been
activated. It is now only possible to move the cursor on the activated surface.
7. Use one point entry to place the device, or two point entries to place a mechanical component.
8. To change the surface or item to be activated, again right click > Go to (graphic) from the layout
space navigator, and activate a different surface as described above.
Activating Mounting Surfaces Directly

Use direct activation to access the mounting surfaces of covered components or components that are at
the back, from the layout space navigator. This is not possible in the graphical representation without
hiding the covering components. The viewpoint is toggled to the front view. All components that are not
involved are hidden.
To activate mounting surfaces directly you must
Have a project opened.
The layout space navigator opened and a layout space opened too.
1. Select a mounting surface in the layout space navigator tree view.

2. Select Popup menu > Activate directly.
The selected mounting surface and the components arranged on it are displayed in the front
view. All other components contained in the layout space are hidden. A grid is displayed on the
mounting surface.
3. Select the Insert > Mounting rail / Wire duct / Device menu items to call up a device or a
mechanical component for placement.
4. In the Part selection dialog, select the part required for placement.
The selected part hangs on the cursor. It is now only possible to move on the activated surface.
5. Use one point entry to place the device, or two point entries to place a mechanical component.
6. To change the surface or item to be activated, again select Popup menu > Activate directly from
the navigator.
Cancel direct activation
1. In the navigator dialog, select the menu item Popup menu > Cancel direct activation.
The directly activated mounting surface is released. It is again displayed in its normal color. The
grid is hidden. You can now work with automatic activation once more.
Placing Mounting Panels in the 3D Mounting Layout
When placing mounting panels in the 3D mounting layout, a distinction is made between placement of a
part from parts management and placement as a device. The same part is placed in both cases. In the
first method an automatic filter is set on the "Housing" part group. In the second method part selection
is opened at the highest hierarchy level, and you can navigate in the tree structure to the part you
require.
Placing mounting panels for 3D mounting layout from parts management
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator and a layout space are opened.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Mounting panel.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the "Housing" hierarchy level already open in the tree
view.
2. Select the mounting panel part you require.
3. Click [OK].
The mounting panel hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview. The size is as defined for the
part. The four possible handles are marked by gray squares. The current handle is displayed in
red at the bottom left.
4. Press [A] to change the handle.
Each time you press [A], the handle changes clockwise from the "Bottom left" position to
"Top left", "Top right", and "Bottom right".
5. Select Popup menu > Placement options to call up the Placement options dialog.
6. Insert the mounting panel by entering a point at the desired location.
The mounting panel is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed
again.
7. If you want to place the mounting panel on an enclosure profile or on a second mounting panel,
move the mounting panel to the vicinity of a corner point of the second mounting panel or an
enclosure profile.
A red 3D snap point symbol appears at the corner point. The mounting panel to be placed
snaps in at this point. Enter a point to place it directly at this position.
Placing Free Mounting Panels in the 3D Mounting Layout

It is possible to place an individual mounting panel in the layout space without surrounding enclosure
profiles and without selecting from parts management. The free mounting panel has the same
properties and editing options as the mounting panel associated with a specific part. The part selection
allows the mounting panel to be retrospectively assigned a part.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator and a layout space are opened too.
1. Select the menu item Insert > Free mounting panel.

The Free mounting panel dialog opens.
2. Enter values for the Width, Height and Depth of the free mounting panel, or accept the
suggested values. The dimensions must not be left blank; otherwise the free mounting panel
cannot be placed.
3. Click [OK].
The free mounting panel hangs on the cursor in the specified size as a transparent preview. The
handle is on the bottom left and [A] can be used to change it.
4. Select Popup menu > Placement options to call up the Placement options dialog. Here you can
choose the handle and enter an offset.
5. Place the free mounting panel in the same way as mounting panels from parts management.
The free mounting panel is created.
6. Select Popup menu > Properties.
The Properties (components): Mounting panel dialog is opened. The text designation "Mounting
panel" appears in the Item field. This text cannot be changed.
Placing Enclosures in the 3D Mounting Layout

The parts management dialog provides various predefined series of enclosures in two different types
(separate product subgroups); you can select enclosures from them to be placed. With both enclosure
types, the elements are grouped and fixed to the enclosure by the "Item is fastened unmovably to the
superior item" property.
Body type: The enclosure consists of several 3D objects (housing, door, mounting panel). The
housing is a single 3D object. The individual elements can be deleted in the layout space
navigator. AE and CM series enclosures are body-type enclosures.
Component type: The enclosure consists of several 3D objects (profiles, walls, doors, mounting
panel). All the elements of the enclosure can be individually deleted in the layout space
navigator. TS 8 series enclosures are component-type enclosures.
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Enclosure.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the Mechanics component hierarchy level already open in
the tree view.
2. Select the enclosure part you require.
3. Click [OK].
The enclosure hangs on the cursor as a detailed preview with the height, width and depth
defined for the part. The currently selected handle is displayed in red, and is also identified by a
red square as a snap point.
Each time you press [A], the handle changes from the "Back left" position to "Back right", "Front
right", and "Front left".
define an offset between the handle and the cursor position, and enter spacings for arranging
multiple enclosures in series.
6. Enter the placement point for the enclosure at the desired position.
The enclosure is inserted. The grouping identifier 'S<Enclosure number>' is automatically
entered in the navigator and is inherited by all components of the enclosure and by all
components placed in the enclosure. All enclosure add-on parts placed with the enclosure are
grouped logically. When you move an enclosure or an enclosure item, all the components
placed on it are moved as well. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Placing Mounting Rails in the 3D Mounting Layout
Mounting rails are normally placed on mounting panels or on the mounting surfaces of enclosure
profiles. The automatic activation or direct activation options are available for accurate placement of
the part. The handle of the mounting rail can be changed before placement. Mounting rails can be
inserted in one of two ways, which differ in the method by which the length is entered:
Variable-length placement by entering the start and end point; here the length is defined by the
distance between the two points.
Adoption of the length of an already placed item; here the mounting rail is placed by entering a
single point.
The second method allows the mounting rail to be automatically positioned centrally between two
already placed items.
Variable-length placement of mounting rails
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Mounting rail.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the 'Housing accessories, internal extension' hierarchy
level already open in the tree view.
2. Select the desired mounting rail part.
3. Click [OK].
The mounting rail hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview with the height defined for the
part but with no defined length. The currently selected handle is displayed in red, and is also
identified by a red square as a snap point.
Each time you press [A], the handle changes from the "Center" position to "Top", and "Bottom".
6. Enter the starting point of the mounting rail at the desired position.
7. Move the cursor to the right or left, up or down, and draw the mounting rail to the desired
length like a line.
The mounting rail is displayed transparently at its current length up to the cursor position.
8. Enter the end point of the mounting rail at the desired position.
The mounting rail is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Mounting rail placement with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
There is at least one mounting rail or wire duct on the same mounting surface on which you
wish to place the item.
Select Insert > Mounting rail

1. Select the mounting rail part you require in the Part selection dialog and click [OK].
2. Change the handle in the same way as for variable-length placement.
3. Choose Popup menu > Adopt length.
4. Click a mounting rail or wire duct that has already been placed.
The new mounting rail to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
cursor. The mounting rail can only be moved with the cursor parallel to the clicked item.
5. Move the rail to the desired position parallel to the clicked item and place it by entering a point.
The mounting rail is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Centered mounting rail placement with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
There are at least two mounting rails or wire ducts on the same mounting surface on which you
Select Insert > Mounting rail

1. Select the mounting rail part you require in the Part selection dialog and click [OK].
2. Choose Popup menu > Adopt length. Click a mounting rail or wire duct that has already been
placed.
The new mounting rail to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
cursor by the selected handle.
3. Select Popup menu > Place centered.
4. Click a second mounting rail or wire duct with the left mouse button.
The new mounting rail to be placed is placed centrally between the two selected components.
Placing Wire Ducts in the 3D Mounting Layout

Wire ducts are normally placed on mounting panels or on the mounting surfaces of enclosure profiles.
Just like the mounting rails you can utilize the automatic activation or direct activation options for
accurately placing the part. The handle of the wire duct can be changed before placement. Wire ducts
can be inserted in one of two ways, which differ in the method by which the length is entered:
Variable-length placement by entering the start and end point; here the length is defined by the
distance between the two points.
Adoption of the length of an already placed item; here the wire duct is placed by entering a
single point.
The second method allows the mounting rail to be automatically positioned centrally between two
already placed items.
Variable-length placement of wire ducts
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Wire duct.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the Mechanics component hierarchy level already open in
the tree view.
2. Select the wire duct part you require.
3. Click [OK].
The wire duct hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview with the height defined for the part
but with no defined length. The currently selected handle is displayed in red, and is also
6. Enter the starting point of the wire duct at the desired position.
7. Move the cursor to the right or left, up or down, and draw the wire duct to the desired length
like a line.
The wire duct is displayed transparently at its current length up to the cursor position.
8. Enter the end point of the wire duct at the desired position.
The wire duct is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Wire duct placement with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
There is at least one mounting rail or wire duct on the same mounting surface on which you
Select Insert > Wire duct

1. Select the wire duct part you require in the Part selection dialog and click [OK].
3. Choose Popup menu > Adopt length.
4. Click a mounting rail or wire duct that has already been placed.
The new wire duct to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
cursor. The wire duct can only be moved with the cursor parallel to the clicked item.
5. Move the wire duct to the desired position parallel to the clicked item and place it by entering a
point.
The wire duct is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Centered wire duct placement with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
There are at least two wire ducts or mounting rails on the same mounting surface on which you
Select Insert > Wire duct

1. Select the wire duct part you require in the Part selection dialog and click [OK].
2. Choose Popup menu > Adopt length. Click a wire duct or mounting rail that has already been
placed.
The new wire duct to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the cursor
by the selected handle.
4. Click a second wire duct or mounting rail with the left mouse button.
The new wire duct to be placed is placed centrally between the two selected components
Placing Busbar Systems in the 3D Mounting Layout

Busbar systems are available for placement in a layout space from the following sources:
Menu items Insert > Busbar system
Part master data navigator
Bill of materials navigator
Menu items Insert > Device
Device list
Window macros
Data Portal
Busbar systems are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed on any other mounting
surface. Selection and placement are similar to those of mounting rails and wire ducts:
Upon opening, only those parts from parts management are displayed that have also been
classified as busbar systems.
Use Automatic activation or Direct activation.
Switch the handle to "Center", "Top" or "Bottom" by pressing the [A] key.
Place length-variable components by entering a start and end point in the horizontal or vertical
direction.
Apply/Adopt the length of an item already placed.
Position the rail in the center between two items already placed.
A collision check is performed during the placement.
Busbar systems have extended features compared to individual rails:
With busbar systems, the actual busbars and the additionally required supports are placed in a
single work step. The number of supports is adjustable and can be modified subsequently. It is
also possible to place items without supports.
A busbar system already placed can be modified subsequently without losing any items placed
on it.
A drilling pattern can be assigned to the supports of the busbar system via parts management.
When placing a busbar system, delivery lengths can be taken into consideration automatically.
Devices can be placed directly on the poles of a busbar system.
The individual poles of a busbar system have their own part numbers and can be modified
individually in terms of length. In practice, the individual poles are often of different lengths.
This is also considered in the report of a bill of materials.
Poles are manufactured individually. To connect the other copper parts and cables, the poles are
drilled.
Prior to placement a check is run to see whether the busbar system can be calculated from the
entries defined in parts management. If the part properties necessary for a placement are
incomplete in parts management, a message will be displayed and the placement will be
canceled.
Variable-length placement of busbar systems

Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Busbar system.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the "Mechanics > Component > Busbars" hierarchy level
already open.
2. Open the "System" hierarchy level and below select the required part.
3. On the Busbar system tab of the Part selection dialog, check whether entries exist in the Rails
group box for the fields Part number and Part variant. If this is not the case, use the [...] button
to select a part for the rails to be used.
4. Click [OK].
The busbar system hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview with the height defined for the
part but with no defined length. The currently selected handle is displayed in red, and is also
Each time you press [A], the handle changes from the "Center" position to "Top edge", and
"Lower edge".
6. Select the Placement options popup menu item to call up the Placement options dialog. Here
you can choose the handle and enter an offset.
7. Enter the starting point of the busbar / busbar system at the desired position.
8. Move the cursor to the right or left, up or down, and draw the busbar to the desired length like
a line.
The busbar is displayed transparently at its current length up to the cursor position.
9. Enter the end point of the busbar at the desired position.
The Busbar support dialog opens. "2" is preset in the Quantity field. Wider systems require
more supports, but it is also possible to place the rails without supports.
10. Enter the desired quantity or change the value using the two arrow keys, and click [OK].
The busbar system is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed
again.
Example:
Placed busbar system with four busbars and three supports
Busbar system placement with length adoption

Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator and a layout space opened.
At least one mounting rail, busbar or wire duct on the same mounting surface on which you
Insert > Busbar system

1. Select the required part in the Part selection dialog and click [OK].
2. Change the handle if needed using the [A] key.
3. Select the Adopt length popup menu item.
4. Click a mounting rail, busbar or wire duct that has already been placed.
The new busbar system to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on
the cursor. The busbar can only be moved with the cursor parallel to the clicked item.
5. Move the busbar to the desired position parallel to the clicked item and place it by entering a
point.
6. Select the desired number of supports and click [OK].
The busbar system is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Place busbar system centrally with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator and a layout space opened.
There are at least two mounting rails, two busbars or two wire ducts on the same mounting
surface on which you wish to place the item.
Insert > Busbar system

The new busbar system to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
4. Select the Place centered popup menu item.

5. Click a second mounting rail, busbar or wire duct with the left mouse button.
6. Select the desired number of supports and click [OK].
The new mounting rail to be placed is placed centrally between the two selected components.
Placing C Horizontal Rails in the 3D Mounting Layout

C horizontal rails can be placed in a layout space from the following sources:
Menu items Insert > C horizontal rail
Device list
Data Portal
C horizontal rails are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed on any other mounting
When called up, only those parts are displayed from parts management that have also been
classified as C horizontal rails.
direction.
Apply the length of an item already placed.
C horizontal rails have extended options compared to the mounting rails:
The profile of a C horizontal rail can be generated from the part dimensions width and depth
automatically, or can be defined by a user-defined outline that is created in the outline editor
and saved in the parts data.
When placing a C horizontal rail, delivery lengths can be taken into consideration automatically.
The length of the C horizontal rail can be modified subsequently, that is, after the placement.
It is possible to assign to a C horizontal rail a drilling pattern in parts management.
Devices can be placed directly on the C horizontal rail.
Prior to the placement a check is run to see whether the C horizontal rail can be calculated from
the entries defined in parts management or the user-defined outline. If the part properties
necessary for a placement are incomplete in parts management, a message will be displayed
and the placement will be canceled.
Place C horizontal rails in a length-variable manner

Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the Insert > C horizontal rail menu options.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the "Mechanics > Component > Housing accessories,
internal extension > C horizontal rails" hierarchy level already open.
2. Select the required part.
3. Click [OK].
The C horizontal rail hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview with the height defined for
the part but with no defined length. The currently selected handle is displayed in red, and is also
Each time you press [A], the handle changes from the "Center" position to "Top", and
"Bottom".
6. Enter the starting point of the C horizontal rail at the desired position.
7. Move the cursor to the right or left, up or down, and draw the C horizontal rail to the desired
length like a line.
The C horizontal rail is displayed transparently at its current length up to the cursor position. If a
delivery length has been defined on the part, the C horizontal rail can be pulled open up to this
maximum length.
8. Enter the end point of the C horizontal rail at the desired position.
The C horizontal rail is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Example:
Placed C horizontal rail

Place C horizontal rail with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
At least one C horizontal rail, mounting rail, busbar or wire duct on the same mounting surface
on which you wish to place the item.
Insert > C horizontal rail

3. Select the menu item Popup menu > Adopt length.
The new C horizontal rail to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
cursor. The C horizontal rail can only be moved with the cursor parallel to the clicked item.
5. Move the C horizontal rail to the desired position parallel to the clicked item and place it by
entering a point.
The C horizontal rail is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Place C horizontal rail centrally with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
At least two rails or wire ducts on the same mounting surface on which you wish to place the
item.
Insert > C horizontal rail

2. Select the menu item Popup menu > Adopt length. Click a rail or wire duct that has already been
placed.
The new C horizontal rail to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
4. Click a second rail or wire duct with the left mouse button.
This functionality is only available for certain module packages.
Placing User-Defined Rails in the 3D Mounting Layout
User-defined rails can be placed in a layout space from the following sources:
Menu items Insert > User-defined rail
Device list
Data Portal
User-defined rails are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed on any other mounting
When called up, only those parts are displayed from parts management that have also been
classified as user-defined rails.
direction.
Apply the length of an item already placed.
User-defined rails have extended options compared to the mounting rails:
Using the 2D outline editor, you can create an outline with the profile of the user-defined rail on
a 1:1 scale. This outline with the part property Macro is assigned to a part as a macro in parts
management on the Technical data tab. During the placement, the 2D outline is extruded along
the entered length and thus forms the rail.
When placing a user-defined rail, delivery lengths can be taken into consideration automatically.
The length of the user-defined rail can be modified subsequently, that is, after the placement.
It is possible to assign to a user-defined rail a drilling pattern in parts management.
Devices can be placed directly on the user-defined rail.
Prior to the placement, a check is run to see whether the user-defined rail can be calculated
with the outline assigned in parts management. If the outline does not exist or is incorrect, a
message will be displayed and the placement will be canceled.
Place user-defined rails in length-variable manner

Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the Insert > User-defined rail menu items.

The Part selection dialog opens, with the "Mechanics > Component > User-defined rail >
General" hierarchy level already open.
2. Open the hierarchy levels below and select the required part.
3. Click [OK].
The user-defined rail hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview with the height defined for
the part but with no defined length. The currently selected handle is displayed in red, and is also
6. Enter the starting point of the user-defined rail at the desired position.
7. Move the cursor to the right or left, up or down, and draw the user-defined rail to the desired
length like a line.
The user-defined rail is displayed transparently at its current length up to the cursor position. If
a delivery length has been defined on the part, the user-defined rail can be pulled open up to
this maximum length.
8. Enter the end point of the user-defined rail at the desired position.
The user-defined rail is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed
again.
Example:
Placed user-defined rail and basic outline
Place user-defined rail with length adoption

Once you have:
A project opened.
At least one user-defined rail, C horizontal rail, mounting rail, busbar or wire duct on the same
mounting surface on which you wish to place the item.
Insert > User-defined rail

4. Click a rail or wire duct that has already been placed.

The new user-defined rail to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
cursor. The user-defined rail can only be moved with the cursor parallel to the clicked item.
5. Move the user-defined rail to the desired position parallel to the clicked item and place it by
entering a point.
The user-defined rail is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed
again.
Place user-defined rail centrally with length adoption
Once you have:
A project opened.
At least two rails or wire ducts on the same mounting surface on which you wish to place the
item.
Insert > User-defined rail

2. Select the Adopt length popup menu item. Click a rail or wire duct that has already been placed.
The new user-defined rail to be placed adopts the length of the rail you clicked and hangs on the
3. Select the Place centered popup menu item.
4. Click a second rail or wire duct with the left mouse button.
The new user-defined rail to be placed is placed centrally between the two selected
components.
Inserting Cut-Outs in the 3D Mounting Layout
Cut-outs are manually placed openings in construction items, mounting panels and sheets that are
drilled or manufactured by NC robots. Cut-outs do not actually model the 3D body in which they are
inserted, but rather are visualized by a placeholder that penetrates the item and contains all the
information on coordinates and material thickness. NC machines can interpret such information and
implement it as manufacturing steps.
Cut-outs of the following types can be inserted individually or in multiples:
Drill hole
Threaded hole
Rectangle
Slotted hole
Hexagon
Octagon
User-defined outline
From drilling pattern.
Every cut-out type has a dialog where you can define the required values. You can use placing aids with
all types during the placement:
Use of automatic activation
Switching between nine handles.
Once you have:
A project opened.
A layout space that contains a mounting panel and / or construction items.
Insert a cut-out
In this manual out of the eight cut-out types, only the insertion of a drill hole will be explained by way of
an example. The other types are placed in the same manner, and only differ in the type of the values to
be entered in the <Cut-out type> dialog.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Cut-out > Drill hole.
The Drill hole dialog is displayed.
2. In the Drill hole dialog enter the value for the diameter or select a value from the drop-down
list. [OK].
The drill hole hangs on the cursor in the specified size as a transparent preview. The currently
selected handle is displayed in red, and is also identified by a red square as a snap point.
Each time [A] is actuated, the handle changes from the "Center" position to one of the eight
surrounding positions.
4. Select Popup menu > Placement options to call up the Placement options dialog.
5. Place the cut-out by clicking on the desired position.
The cut-out is inserted in the layout space and entered in the navigator. The selected part
remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Drawing Restricted Placing Areas in the 3D Mounting Layout

Mounting surfaces on components in the layout space (mounting panels, enclosure profiles, walls,
doors) can be locked for positioning so that part placements cannot occur on them. This may be
necessary if holes are to be subsequently drilled at these points or if the space is needed for devices that
are mounted from other sides. These can include top-mounted cooling units, which project from above
into the enclosure, or monitors and control elements on a door which have a relatively large mounting
depth. Locked areas are independent 3D objects drawn as rectangles.
Once you have:
A project opened.
An enclosure or a mounting panel has been placed.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Locked area > Restricted placing area.
2. Move the cursor to the area to be locked to activate it automatically, or activate a mounting
surface directly in the layout space navigator.
The automatically or directly activated mounting surface is identified in color. Input is now only
possible on this area.
3. Draw the rectangle that represents the restricted placing area.
The locked area is drawn.
Note:
As soon as a part placement is attempted in a locked area, the placement is prevented, and an
appropriate message is displayed. If the initiating check run P026012 has the setting "Prevent errors",
then placement is prevented automatically on confirmation of the message
Drawing Restricted Drilling Areas in the 3D Mounting Layout
Restricted drilling areas exclude the affected area from the calculation of drilling coordinates. Drill holes
within these areas are not displayed in the drilling view or output with NC data and so are not drilled.
User-defined drill holes cannot be placed on restricted drilling areas either.
Restricted drilling areas are placed in the same way as restricted placing areas. In contrast to restricted
placing areas, however, the restricted drilling areas penetrate the entire item and are also visible and
effective on the opposite side.
Precondition:
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Locked area > Restricted drilling area.
2. Move the cursor to the area to be locked to activate it automatically, or activate a mounting
surface directly in the layout space navigator.
The automatically or directly activated mounting surface is identified in color. Input is now only
possible on this area.
3. Draw the rectangle that represents the restricted drilling area.
The locked area is drawn. The restricted drilling area is also visible on the back of the item and
has the same effect there as it does on the front
Placing Devices in the 3D Mounting Layout

Devices are placed as defined devices on mounting rails, mounting panels or on the mounting surfaces
of enclosure profiles. To help you place them accurately, you can utilize the automatic activation or
direct activation options. The handle of the device can be changed before placement. The device
dimensions are specified in the part definition or in the assigned graphical macro, and cannot
subsequently be changed.
Once you have:
A project opened.
A layout space navigator and a layout space are opened.
1. Select the Insert > Device menu options.

The Part selection dialog is opened, the top hierarchical level, "Part", is selected.
2. Navigate through the tree structure, and select the desired device part.
3. Click [OK].
The device hangs on the cursor as a transparent preview. If the device is defined with the
Height, Width and Depth part properties, it is displayed with the dimensions specified in the
part. If a 3D macro is defined in the device, this is displayed on the cursor. The currently selected
handle is displayed in red, and is also identified by a red square as a snap point.
Each time [A] is actuated, the handle changes from left to right, or to the next of the 9 possible
points on the base.
6. Click to place the device.
The device is inserted. The selected part remains at the cursor and can be placed again.
Tip:
Devices can be electrical engineering devices as well as mechanical and fluid power devices. You can also
place mounting panels, mounting rails, cable ducts and other mechanical components as devices when
selecting in the 3D mounting layout.
Notes:
If an enclosure base is to be placed from the Accessory placement dialog that is defined in parts
management by means of the properties Width, Height, and Depth, the values of the Depth and
Height properties of the part must be replaced, so that the accessory part is placed in the
correct position.
Apart from the part properties Width, Height, and Depth, EPLAN Pro Panel also allows for
devices and items to be visualized through qualified 3D graphical macros.
To create your own devices, items, and 3D graphical macros, you can import 3D model data into
EPLAN Pro Panel in the STEP format. This data, mostly provided by component manufacturers, is
usually based on the CAD construction data of the component manufacturer and are often
complex as well as detailed.
The use of complex and detailed 3D models as a basis for EPLAN 3D graphical macros,
accordingly, is more RAM-intensive, and may affect the performance of the program adversely
during project editing in EPLAN.
To obtain further information and recommendations on this subject, please contact EPLAN
Support.
Duplicating Objects in the 3D Mounting Layout
Using the Duplicate command, you can insert multiple copies of 3D objects in the layout space very
easily at the same time. Duplication only works within the layout space, not across layout spaces.
Once you have:
A project opened.
A layout space is open.
1. Select the object or group of objects to be duplicated by drawing a border around these objects,
and select the menu items Edit > Duplicate.
The objects hang on the top left handle on the cursor. Press [A] to change the handle.
2. Select Popup menu > Placement options to open the Placement options dialog and set the
angle, handle and offset values, and confirm your settings by clicking [OK].
3. Place the first copy.
4. In the Duplicate dialog, enter the total number of elements to be created.
5. In the subsequent Insertion mode dialog enter how the structure identifiers of the duplicated
objects are to be handled, and then confirm your settings by clicking [OK].
EPLAN automatically generates the specified number of copies and places them at the distance
selected for the first copy. In the layout space navigator the copies are entered in the hierarchy
parallel to the source objects.
Tip:
You can also generate a single copy by holding down the [Ctrl] key and clicking the object and
then dragging the copy to its new position.
Rotating Objects about the X-Axis, Y-Axis and Z-Axis
The Rotate around X-axis, Rotate around Y-axis and Rotate around Z-axis functionalities rotate one or
more objects in the layout space (enclosures, mounting panels, mounting rails and the devices and other
parts placed on them) around one of the preselected axes through the center of the body. The
viewpoint selected is not important for the rotation; rotation is always central around the absolute axes.
With this functionality, it is not possible to use an edge as the axis of rotation.
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the Edit > Graphic > Rotate around axis > X-axis / Y-axis / Z-axis menu items.
The form of the cursor shows that the rotation function is activated:
2. Click the objects to be rotated, to select them.
The object is selected.
3. If you want to select multiple objects which lie next to one another, open a border around the
desired group with the mouse.
All objects within this frame are selected.
4. Enter the rotation angle in the input box. Possible values for the rotation angle can be positive
or negative.
Note:
Depending on the setting, the input box appears at the cursor immediately, or after the first number has
been entered. If the input box is always to be displayed for every possible entry in 3D, select Options >
Settings > User > Graphical editing > Input box / Mini toolbars, and select the Always show input box
(3D) check box.
5. Use [Enter] to confirm the entered rotation angle.
The selected objects are rotated around the entered angle without the need for further input. The
viewpoint changes to the view that is perpendicular to the selected axis of rotation. Object selection
is removed. The rotation function remains active and you can select other objects to rotate. Each
individual rotation can be canceled with Undo.
Example:
Changing the length of objects in the layout space

The length of mounting rails and wire ducts placed in the layout space can be modified subsequently.
The length can always be changed only for an individual object; it is not possible to select several
objects. Different forms of input can be used to define the new length:
Free point entry by clicking
Snapping a projection point to another object
Entering a positive or negative value in the input box.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space contains at least one variable-length item (mounting rail or wire duct).
1. Select the Edit > Graphic > Change length menu items.
You are prompted to select an element for trimming.
2. Click the object to be changed on the end that is to be changed.
The object is displayed at the current cursor position. A red snap point appears on the cursor at
the selected end. The end of the object that you clicked can be moved in both directions with
the cursor. The 3D snap points of the mounting panel are displayed in blue; the snap points of
the other components in the layout space appear as soon as the cursor touches them.
Clicking to change length
1. Move the cursor to the position to which the object is to be extended or shortened.
The object representation follows the cursor.
2. Click or press [Enter] to specify the new end point for the object.
The object is displayed in the new length.
Changing length by snapping a projection point
1. Move the cursor close to a displayed 3D snap point. The snap points on other objects of the
same type appear if you move the cursor over them. The edges of mounting panels are also
found without displaying a snap point.
The cursor snaps onto the snap point it finds or onto an edge. The red cursor snap point is
surrounded by a red square. The object representation is projected as far as the found point,
and extended or shortened until it reaches it.
2. Click to specify the new end point for the object.
The object is aligned at the projection point and displayed in the new length.
Changing length by entry in the input box
1. Click the object to be changed on the end at which the change is to take place.
2. Enter the value by which the object is to be extended or shortened in the input box. Values
without a preceding sign or that are prefixed by "+" extend, values with a preceding "-" shorten.
3. Click [Enter] to confirm the entered value.
The object is displayed in the new length.
Note:
Depending on the setting, the input box appears at the cursor immediately, or after the first number has
been entered. If the input box is always to be displayed for every possible entry in 3D, select Options >
Settings > User > Graphical editing > Input box / Mini toolbars, and select the Always show input box
(3D) check box.
Example:
Fitting Rails and Wire Ducts

Fitting is about reconciling the lengths of length-variable items placed in parallel to each other (wire
ducts, mounting rails, busbars, C horizontal rails, user-defined rails) with selectable points and edges.
Possible uses are:
All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed on a mounting panel are drawn towards an
edge of the mounting panel in a suitable manner in a single work step.
All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed next to a vertical wire duct are drawn towards
it in a suitable manner in a single work step.
All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed between two vertical wire ducts are drawn
towards them in a suitable manner in two work steps.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space receives several length-variable items (rails and / or wire ducts).
1. Select the menu items Edit > Graphic > Fit rails / wire ducts.
In the status bar, you are prompted to select an element for trimming.
2. Select the items to be fitted by surrounding them with a rectangle.
In the status bar, you are prompted to select an edge or point up to which the selected items
are to be fitted.
3. Move the cursor over the edge of a vertical wire duct or over the side section of the mounting
panel.
When the cursor touches a suitable edge, it is highlighted. If the cursor touches a suitable point,
it is displayed as a highlighted square.
4. Click to select the desired point or the edge.
The selected items are lengthened or shortened jointly up to the selected edge / selected point.
The function remains active. The selection of items is retained, and you can select another edge
or point to be fitted.
Example:
Importing 3D graphic data

You can import 3D graphic data from external CAD systems to create your own items and 3D macros.
The item data must be available in the common international STEP format (STandard for the Exchange
of Product model data). A new layout space is generated for each import, and is given the name of the
imported STEP file. Once imported, the item data can be edited and given functional logic.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator opened.
1. Select Layout space > Import (3D graphic).

The Open dialog is displayed. "STEP file (*.stp, *.step, *.ste)" is set as the file type.
2. In the Look in field, select a directory containing STEP files.
3. Enter the name of the required STEP file in the File name field, or select the file by clicking it in
the file list.
4. Click on [Open].
The 3D graphic data will be imported to a new layout space with the description from the name
of the STEP file. Function definitions are automatically generated for the individual 3D objects.
5. You can now edit the imported graphic and add functional logic, so that it can be used as an
enclosure item, a device or a 3D macro. Use the menu items Edit > Graphic > Rotate around axis,
Edit > Graphic > Unite, and Edit > Device logic > Mounting surface / Handle / Define mounting
point / Placement area > Define to do this.
Note:
As well as the part properties Width, Height, and Depth, EPLAN Pro Panel also provides the option of
displaying devices and items using qualified 3D graphical macros.
To create your own devices, items and 3D graphical macros, 3D model data can be imported into EPLAN
Pro Panel in the STEP format. This data, normally provided by component manufacturers, is usually based
on the component manufacturer's CAD design data, and is often complex and detailed.
Using complex, detailed 3D models as the basis for EPLAN 3D graphical macros is correspondingly RAMintensive and can have a negative impact on the program's performance when editing projects in EPLAN.
Uniting Objects in the Layout Space

A 3D macro (in other words a layout space in a macro project) can contain several individual bodies if
there were several bodies included in the imported source file. Although a geometrical addition of bodies
is not possible, there is a function available which merges all components of the layout space in such a
way that a 3D macro is treated like one item. This function is only available in layout spaces and is
differentiated from grouping in the 2D mounting layout.
Once you have:
A project opened.
A layout space which contains imported 3D bodies or a 3D macro open for editing.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Graphic > Unite.

A prompt to select the objects to be united is displayed in the status bar.
2. Use the mouse to draw a frame around the desired objects.
All the objects within this frame are selected. If you have already selected objects before calling
the function, there is no need to draw a frame. In the status bar you are prompted to select the
handle for the united object.
3. Move the cursor over the selected objects and click the snap point you wish to use as the handle
for the newly united item.
The selected handle is stored in a new object. If you generate a 3D macro from this object, then it
is moved to this point on the cursor and placed.
Note:
For technical reasons united items can only be separated again immediately after executing the action,
using Undo. Once this option is no longer available, the bodies cannot be separated.
Defining a Mounting Surface
Mounting surfaces are surfaces of an item on which other components can be placed. We can define
individual surfaces of bodies imported as 3D data as mounting surfaces. They are used for capturing the
handles of rails, channels and components that are to be placed on them. The mounting surfaces can be
activated automatically by touching them with the cursor or selectively from the popup menu of the
layout space navigator. Mounting surfaces can be deleted in the navigator.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space contains imported 3D bodies which are to be saved as a macro.
1. Select the menu item Edit > Device logic > Mounting surface.
2. Move the cursor over the surfaces of the 3D body.
The surface beneath the cursor is automatically highlighted in color.
3. When you reach the surface you want, click it.
The selected surface is defined as a mounting surface. In the layout space navigator a mounting
surface entry is generated under the corresponding item node. A range of system-defined
designation texts can be selected in the Properties dialog for this entry.
The function remains active and you can continue to select additional surfaces. Then you can exit
the function by pressing [Esc] or by clicking the Cancel button.
Generate type-specific mounting surfaces from function definition
A part placement or a body imported as 3D data that does not yet have any mounting surfaces can be
given mounting surfaces automatically that are generated as matching the set function definition. This is
possible with the following function definitions from the areas "Enclosure systems" and "System
accessories":
Body, general
Mounting panel, general
Door, general
Panel, general
Partition, general
Floor sheet, general
Flange plate.
Select a logic item in the layout space navigator.

Select the menu item Popup menu > Properties.
The Properties (components): Part placement (3D) dialog is displayed.
In the Function definition field select the [...] button.

The Function definitions dialog is displayed.
Select one of the suitable function definitions from the areas "Enclosure systems" and "System
accessories".
Click [OK].
Select Popup menu > Generate mounting surfaces in the layout space navigator.
Matching the selected function definition, all mounting surfaces are generated on the item and
entered in the layout space navigator with the suitable item designations.
Notes:
The surface that is to be defined as a mounting surface must be limited by points which are
geometrically in the same plane. Depending on the quality of the imported 3D data, surfaces
may occur which do not meet this condition. Mounting surfaces cannot be defined on such
surfaces.
The reference point of the mounting surface is usually in the bottom left. When surfaces are not
perpendicular, the mounting surface also has to form a surrounding rectangle with a reference
point in the bottom left. If - because the item has special shapes - the automatic alignment of
the mounting surface fails, the Adjust X-axis and Adjust Y-axis functionalities can be used to
correct the situation.
When creating macros with NC-relevant mounting surfaces, the field size is not entered
automatically but must be defined manually. To do so, use the Field size function in the popup
menu of the layout space navigator.
Defining a Handle
A handle is used to place a 3D macro. In addition to the handles, which are generated automatically for
3D bodies, there is a user-defined handle in the macro. When placing an item in the project, select this
handle in the placement options in the Handle field under the name "Graphical macro".
Once you have:
A project opened.
Object snap is switched on.
1. Select the Edit > Device logic > Handle menu items.
2. Move the cursor over the 3D geometry.
The 3D snap points of the object are displayed. These are the end or center points of an edge or
the corner points of a cuboid surrounding the object.
3. Click the required point.
The handle is identified by an orange cuboid.
4. To move the handle to another location, execute the steps 1 to 3 again.
Tip:
In the Edit > Create window macro function, modify the handle in the Save as dialog, [Extras] button,
using the Move handle menu item.
To define the extended handle logic, edit the properties of the handle.
Defining Mounting Points

Mounting points are used to define points, surfaces or lines on 3D objects on which other components
can be placed. Mounting points can be used for the exclusive placement of a suitable handle on a 3D
object. Example: Placement of the center of a mounting rail drill hole on the center of a drill hole on a
support. A mounting point is therefore a snap point.
Mounting points can have a direction and a rotation, which means that placement of the 3D objects can
be controlled using a set of rules:
The direction indicates the direction in which the object to be placed on the mounting point is to
be oriented.
The rotation also allows the object to be placed to be moved around the selected direction axis.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator and a layout space (containing 3D objects) are opened.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Device logic > Mounting point.
2. Move the cursor over the 3D objects.
Points, edges or surfaces below the cursor are automatically highlighted. Snap points are
displayed.
3. Click a point on the 3D object.
The Properties: Mounting Point dialog opens.
4. Enter the values you wish to use in the Name, Description, Direction and Rotation fields.
5. When all the settings have been completed correctly, click [OK].
Defining Mounting Grids

Mounting grids are assigned to individual areas of a 3D part placement, and during the placement of
other components are displayed on these areas. Thus, placement is only possible on the intersections of
the grid lines. Using the mounting grid, it is possible to represent a manufacturer and type-specific hole
pattern, for example, on enclosure profiles, within which screw connections are set during the mounting.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space contains imported 3D bodies which are to be saved as an enclosure or accessory
part.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Device logic > Mounting grid.
The Mounting grid dialog is displayed.
2. In the Mounting grid dialog enter suitable values for the grid points and grid rows in the X and Y
direction.
3. Click [OK].
You are prompted to select a surface.

4. Move the cursor over the surfaces of the 3D geometry.
The origin of the surface to which the grid points defined in the Mounting grid dialog refer is
displayed in a coordinate system.
5. Click the selected surface to place the mounting grid.

The mounting grid is saved at the part placement and is displayed in the layout space on the
selected surface. The function remains active, and you can put mounting grids on additional
surfaces.
The properties of the placed mounting grid can be modified subsequently.
Defining and Changing Placement Areas

3D macros require information about the area with which they are placed and the direction in which they
may have to be turned in order to ensure correct placement. This information is stored in the 3D macro
by the definition of a placement area. The position of the placement area also determines the mounting
depth to which the 3D object is positioned on a mounting surface. Nine handles are then automatically
generated on the placement surface. You can use these for positioning. In addition you can use Edit >
Device logic > Handle to define another handle. This handle is always projected onto the defined
placement area when placing it.
Once you have:
A macro project opened.
Define placement area
1. Select the menu items Edit > Device logic > Placement area > Define.
2. Move the cursor over the surfaces of the 3D body.
3. When you reach the surface you want, click it.
The selected area is defined as the placement area. Any area that projects beyond the limits of
the selected area will appear transparent. Handles are created at the corners and centers of the
limiting edges.
When the area has been selected, the function ends.
Note:
The area that is to be defined as the placement area has to be limited by points that lie geometrically in
a common level. Depending on the quality of the imported 3D data, surfaces may occur which do not
meet this condition. Placement areas cannot be defined on such surfaces.
Example:
The illustration shows a 3D macro with a placement area beneath the base plate. The handles are at the
corners and centers of the edges.
The illustration shows a 3D macro with a placement area beneath the base plate. The handles are at the
corners and centers of the edges.
Turn around placement area

Turn around placement area rotates the placement area by 180 horizontally.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Device logic > Placement area > Turn around.
The placement area is rotated by 180 without further entries.
The 3D object is also rotated by 180.
Example:
The figure shows a 3D macro with a rotated placement area.

Move placement area
Move placement area moves the position of the placement area in the Z-direction. This allows the
mounting depth of the 3D macro to be varied.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Device logic > Placement area > Move.
2. Enter the value of the displacement on the keyboard.
If a positive number or a number without prefix is entered, the placement area is moved
upwards.
If a negative number with a preceding "-" is entered, the placement area is moved downwards.
Example:
The figure shows a 3D macro with a placement area moved by 100 mm.
Rotate placement area

Rotate placement area rotates the placement area vertically around its center. This allows rotated
placement of the 3D macro.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Device logic > Placement area > Rotate.
2. Enter the radius of the rotation on the keyboard.
If a positive number or a number without prefix is entered, the 3D object is moved
counterclockwise on the placement area.
If a negative number with a preceding "-" is entered, the 3D object is moved clockwise on the
placement area.
Example:
The figure shows a 3D macro with a placement area rotated by -15. The handles remain unchanged on
the base area.
Defining Base Points
User-defined base points are mounting points with predefined properties manually placed in a macro by
the user that can be used as the property of an accessory placement in accessories management. This
way you define the positions on frame profiles and housings where the macro may be placed as an
accessory part.
Once you have:
Object snap is switched on.
1. Select the Edit > Device logic > Base points menu items.
The cursor is identified by a blue cuboid.
The 3D snap points of the object are displayed in red. These are the end or center points of an
edge or the corner points of a cuboid surrounding the object.
3. Select Popup menu > Placement options to enter for the placement of the point an offset in the
X, Y and Z direction.
The Properties: Base point dialog is displayed.
In the drop-down list select one of the predefined base points from the Name field.
Enter the values you wish to use in the Description, Direction, and Rotation fields.
When all the settings have been completed correctly, click [OK].
The base point is placed as a green cuboid with a 3D coordinate system at the selected position.
Transferring a Base Point Scheme
In connection with the creation of enclosures of the Rittal series "TS8", "AE", and "CM", which have been
imported into the layout space as STEP data, it is possible to place the base points automatically in a
manner suitable for the enclosure series.
Once you have:
The layout space contains the imported 3D graphic that is to be saved as an enclosure.
The four lateral vertical profiles as well as the cover and floor profiles have a corresponding
function definition and item designation.
1. Select the 3D graphic in the layout space or the layout space navigator.
2. Select the Edit > Device logic > Transfer base point scheme menu items.
The Transfer base point scheme dialog is displayed.
3. In the Transfer base point scheme dialog, activate the option button in front of the name of the
enclosure series whose base point scheme is to be transferred to the 3D graphic.
4. Click [OK].
The base points of the selected enclosure series are defined at the 3D graphic automatically.
Interpreting and Carrying over Enclosure Logic

Using the Automatic enclosure interpretation you transfer the existing logic of an enclosure to another,
newly to be defined, enclosure of the same design. This way you can substantially simplify and speed up
the work steps to create your own enclosure series.
Once you have:
The project contains a completely defined enclosure.
The layout space contains imported 3D bodies which are to be saved as an enclosure.
1. Select the Edit > Device logic > Automatic enclosure interpretation menu items.
You are prompted to select the objects for a new enclosure.
2. Surround the 3D geometry with a rectangle.
The Select sample enclosure dialog opens up.
3. In the tree view of the Select sample enclosure dialog, select a layout space and, inside of it, an
enclosure whose properties you want to apply to the 3D geometry.
4. Click [OK].
The 3D geometry is combined in the navigator under the "Enclosure" node.
The item definitions of the sample enclosure are applied to the new enclosure.
The logic elements of the sample enclosure are generated on all item definitions (handles,
mounting surfaces, mounting points).
5. Create a 3D macro from the new enclosure that you can assign to a corresponding part in parts
management.
Tip:
You can also first select the objects and then start the Automatic enclosure interpretation function.
Defining Connection Point Pattern in Layout Space
Part placements receive information about their connection points mostly from the definition of the
connection point pattern on the part. If in the properties of the part placement on the Connection point
pattern tab the Local connection point pattern check box is activated, the connection points defined on
the part will be copied to this part placement. Subsequently, the referencing to the parts data is canceled,
and the connection points can be modified individually.
If the placed part does not have predefined connection points, it is possible to define the connection
points on the part placement graphically. These graphical connection points are also local and apply to
the edited part placement. Like all local connection points, the graphically defined connection points, too,
can be modified individually (position, connection point direction). The modified connection point data of
local connection points can then be used again in order to transfer them to connection point patterns in
parts management.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space contains 3D part placements.
Define connection points graphically

1. Select the menu items View > Connection points.
The predefined connection points and those to be newly defined of the part placements are
displayed as red cuboids.
2. Select the Edit > Device logic > Connection point pattern menu items.
The connection point is represented by a red cuboid and hangs on the cursor.
The 3D snap points of the object are displayed; the connection point can also be placed outside
the snap points.
4. Select Popup menu > Placement options to enter for the placement of the connection point an
offset in the X, Y and Z direction.
The Properties (components): Part placement dialog is displayed.
On the Connection points tab, a new row is entered that contains the coordinates of the point
entered.
Enter a connection point designation in the Connection point designation field of the new
connection point.
Select the required direction of the connection point in the Direction field.
Enter other properties of the connection point, as needed, in the other fields.
All properties of the connection point can be modified subsequently.
When all the settings have been completed correctly, click [OK].
The new connection point is placed in the selected location at the part placement.
Now you can define other connection points. The function remains active until you exit via Cancel
action.
Transfer a local connection point pattern to parts management

The local connection point data of the part placement can also be used in parts management in order to
define connection point patterns as defaults for other part placements. For this purpose, the complete
row with connection point data is merely copied and pasted into parts management.
Via Popup menu > Properties open the Properties (components): Part placement dialog of a part
placement.
Select the Connection point pattern tab, and select with the mouse all fields in the row of a
connection point that you wish to copy.
Press [Ctrl] + [C].

The connection point data is copied to the clipboard.
Close the dialog with [OK] or - if you have not made any changes - with [Cancel].
Select the menu items Utilities > Parts > Management.
In parts management select a connection point pattern that is to receive the copied connection
point data.
Open the Connection points tab of the selected connection point pattern.
With the mouse select all fields in the row of a connection point that you wish to fill with the
copied values.
Press [Ctrl] + [V].

The data from the copied row is pasted into the highlighted row in the connection point pattern.
Using Collision Check

The collision check checks whether items overlap or penetrate each other during placement and editing.
It always kicks in when items are placed, moved, copied, duplicated, rotated or extended. Resulting
collisions are visualized by coloring the affected items. The color used in this context can be set under
Options > Settings > User > Graphical editing > 3D.
The collision check includes all item types, regardless of whether they are displayed or hidden.
The collision check can be turned off at any time.
When placing length-variable items, the collision check is activated after defining the first
placement point.
Intentional collisions are not treated as collisions (e.g., a monitor integrated into a door).
The safety areas (mounting clearances) defined on a part are evaluated and taken into account
by the collision check.
There is a check run to check for collisions subsequently.
An example is the collision check when inserting a mounting rail.

Once you have:
A project opened
The layout space contains part placements.
The 3D mounting layout navigator is open.
1. Select the menu items Options > Collision check.

The collision check is enabled and can be used with the next placement.
2. Select the menu items Insert > Mounting rail, and select a mounting rail for placement.
3. Set the first placement point, and pull the mounting rail apart in such a way that it touches a part
already placed.
As soon as the two items merely touch each other, the snap points are displayed.
4. Pull the mounting rail further apart so that it extends over the part already placed.
Both items involved are highlighted in color by the collision check. The collision is reported in the
status bar. The second placement point cannot be entered anymore; the placement of the
mounting rail is prevented.
5. Place the part in a suitable location.
Displaying Mounting Clearances

In parts management, the width, height and depth for a mounting clearance can be defined in the part
properties on the Mounting data tab. This mounting clearance ensures that an acceptable thermal
loading is maintained when parts are placed next to or on top of each other.
To monitor this, the specified mounting clearances can be shown during placement. They are shown as
transparent, surrounding bodies. In the placement options, the handle of a part to be placed can be set
relative to the edges of the item (default) or to the mounting clearances.
Once you have:
A project opened
1. Select the View > Mounting clearances menu items.

A transparent body is shown around part placements that have a defined mounting clearance.
Example:
Displaying Mounting Aids

Mounting aids are the following elements of device logic:
Handles
Mounting points
Base points
Mounting grid.
These elements are visible in a schematic project only if they are in use, that is, during the placement in a
layout space. Sometimes you may want to render mounting aids visible even outside of placement
actions, so that they can be edited. Using the View > Mounting aids menu items, you can control the
visibility of mounting aids in the schematic project as needed.
Once you have:
A project opened
The layout space contains 3D part placements.
1. Select the menu items View > Mounting aids.

All existing handles, mounting points, base points, and mounting grids are displayed, and can be
selected as well as edited.
2. Select again the menu items View > Mounting aids.
All displayed handles, mounting points, base points, and mounting grids are hidden.
Drawing Auxiliary Lines
3D lines can be placed in the layout space as auxiliary lines. Auxiliary lines can be used to build a
symmetrical or also irregular grid whose intersections can be used as positioning aids when inserting
mounting rails, wire ducts, and devices.
3D lines are placed on mounting surfaces; but placement outside of mounting surfaces is also possible. In
contrast to 2D lines, the starting and end points of 3D lines have a Z coordinate containing information on
their position in the space.
There are two different types of auxiliary lines:
Line Through 2 points (defined by starting and end points)
Line Parallel through point (defined as parallel to an existing line or edge by a placement point).
End and center points of auxiliary lines are found when object snap is turned on. "Real" intersections of
auxiliary lines are also found when the lines are at the same height in the space.
Auxiliary lines can be moved, copied, duplicated and deleted like 2D lines. Auxiliary lines are displayed in
model views.
Once you have:
A project opened
Draw line through 2 points

1. Select the menu items Insert > Line > Through 2 points.
A red cuboid is displayed on the cursor.
2. Move the cursor to the required mounting surface to activate it automatically, or activate a
mounting surface directly in the layout space navigator.
The automatically or directly activated mounting surface is identified in color.
3. Enter the first point of the line. You can use all customary methods when entering points (Object
snap, Placement options, Relative coordinates, Grid, Input box).
4. Pull the line apart and enter the second point of the line.
The 3D line is drawn.
Draw line parallel through point
1. Select the menu items Insert > Line > Parallel through point.
A red cuboid is displayed on the cursor.
In the status bar, you are prompted to select an edge or line.
2. Move the cursor to an existing line or the edge of a 3D object.
The line or edge beneath the cursor is highlighted in color.
3. Select the highlighted line or edge by clicking it.
A copy of the line or edge hangs on the cursor and can be moved in a parallel manner.
In the status bar, you are prompted to select a point where the parallel is to be placed.
4. Move the cursor to the required mounting surface to activate it automatically, or activate a
mounting surface directly in the layout space navigator.
The automatically or directly activated mounting surface is identified in color.
5. Enter the placement point of the parallel line. You can use all customary methods when entering
points (Object snap, Placement options, Relative coordinates, Grid, Input box).
The 3D line is drawn.
Using Connection Preview
The connection preview is useful when placing devices on the 3D mounting layout navigator. A blue line
shows which device, already placed, is electrically connected to the device that is about to be placed in
the project plan. The connection preview makes it easier to group associated devices and helps avoid
unnecessarily long wiring.
Once you have:
A project opened
The 3D mounting layout navigator is open.
1. Select a device in the 3D mounting layout navigator.

2. Select Popup menu > Place.
The part that is to be placed hangs movably from the cursor as a preview.
3. Select the menu item View > Connection preview.
A blue line appears between the part to be placed and the device with which it is electrically
connected.
4. Place the part in a suitable location.
Example:
Measuring in the Layout Space

The Measuring functionality is available for checking the equipment of the mounting panels and
enclosures in the layout space. The distance from points and edges can be measured, and the
measurement result is displayed in a dialog. This contains the coordinates of the measured elements, the
distances of the measured points and the shortest distance between the two measured elements.
The measurement of the coordinates and the distance from points and edges is output relatively, parallel
to a common mounting surface. If the measured points are not on a common mounting surface, the
measured values are relative to the origin of the layout space.
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. Select the Layout space > Measuring menu items.

The Measuring result dialog is displayed. You are prompted to select the first point or the first
edge.
2. Move the cursor over the objects in the layout space.
When the cursor touches a measurable edge, it is highlighted. If the cursor touches a measurable
point, it is displayed as a highlighted square.
Tip:
If you want to measure points or edges on an enclosure, then press the [Shift] key, to display the
grouped elements individually.
3. Click to select the desired first point or the first edge.
You are prompted to select the second point or the second edge.
4. Click to select the desired second point or the second edge.
The Measuring result dialog displays the measured coordinates and length values. The measured
points and the end points of measured edges are displayed in the layout space. A connecting line
is drawn between the measured points.
Example:
Measuring points and edges
Updating Main Elements

All the part references of all the associated part placements can be transferred to the main function in
the 3D mounting layout as well. This replaces the part references in the main function with the part
references contained in the part placements. As in the 2D mounting layout, identification is by the
complete device tag.
Once you have:
A project opened.
There is a part placement on a mounting surface with a complete device tag in a layout space of a
project.
The placement is assigned to one of the following function definitions: fluid devices, fluid
distributor, black box, terminal, terminal strip, PLC card, busbar, plug, normal item.
A symbol with the identical, complete device tag is placed on a page in the same project. The
symbol has the property Main function.
1. Select one or more layout spaces in the layout space navigator.

2. Select Popup menu > Update main elements.
The part references of all the associated part placements are transferred to the main function.
Note:
If the current selection does not contain a part placement that can be updated, a message is displayed
noting this.
Updating Part Dimensions
When the part number is exchanged in a part placement in a layout space, it is necessary to update the
part dimensions if this causes the part dimensions to change, would change the macro name, or has
changed the image file name. It is only possible to update the part dimensions for devices, mounting rails
and wire ducts on mounting surfaces, and for individually inserted mounting panels and free mounting
panels.
Once you have:
A project opened.
You have exchanged the part number in one or more part placements in the layout space.
1. Select one or more nodes in the layout space navigator.
2. Select Popup menu > Update part dimensions.
The highlighted element and all the elements below the highlighted element in the tree view are
updated. The graphic is adjusted to the dimensions of the new part, provided all the requisite
part properties of width, height and depth are available for it.
Note:
Each update must first be confirmed by the user. The complete device tag and the part number of the
elements to be updated are displayed in the Confirm dialog for this. If you click the Do not show this
dialog again check box in the dialog, confirmation is suppressed, and the update is performed
immediately.
Editing Legend Items
The 3D mounting layout also has the option of editing legend items and changing numbering.
Once you have:
A project opened.
1. In the layout space navigator, select a layout space with legend items to be edited.
2. Select Popup menu > Edit legend item.
The Edit legend item dialog opens.
3. Change the entries in the Legend item column manually, or use [Number] to open the Number
dialog. There you can change the numbering settings and renumber the legend items.
4. Click [OK].
Creating 3D macros
The following operations are performed in order to create 3D macros:
Manually by saving selected objects from a layout space
Manually or automatically from imported STEP files (*.ema only)
Manually or automatically from a macro project.
Create a 3D macro by saving selected objects

Once you have:
A project opened
A layout space is opened.
The layout space contains 3D part placements or objects that have been loaded via Layout space
> Import 3D graphic.
1. Select the menu items Edit > Create window macro.

You are prompted to select the objects that should belong to the macro.
2. Draw a border around the objects that should belong to the macro.
The Save as dialog is displayed.
3. In the File name field, enter an identifying name for the 3D macro. You must enter the file name,
but further description text in the Description field is optional.
In the Representation type field, the entry "3D mounting layout" is displayed, which cannot be
modified.
4. From the Variant field select the required variant for the macro.
"Variant A" is the default setting. You can generate further variants by rotating the macro
geometry, or by changing the handle and saving the 3D macro under the same name, but as a
different variant.
5. Select the Edit > Device logic > Handle menu items.
The cursor will be surrounded by a square, that you can set to 3D snap points on the geometry, to
define the handle. Once the handle is placed, the Save as dialog reappears. The defined handle is
always projected onto the placement area.
6. Click [OK].
The 3D macro is saved to the set directory. It can then be called up for placement.
Create a 3D macro from an imported 3D graphic

3D graphic files can be imported in STEP format. You can generate files of this type with a 3D CAD system,
or obtain them from the storage mediums of various manufacturers.
Once you have:
A project opened.
A layout space is opened.
1. Select the Layout space > Import 3D graphic menu items.

The Open dialog is displayed. In the File type field, the default is set to "STEP file (*.stp, *.step,
*.ste)".
2. Select a directory and in this, select a file containing the 3D graphic in STEP format to be
imported, and click [Open].
The 3D graphic from the STEP file is loaded in the layout space and displayed as a 3D object.
Depending on the quality of the source data, the 3D graphic may have to be edited, before it can
be saved as a 3D macro. Use the Edit > Graphic > Rotate around axis and Edit > Graphic > Unite
menu items to do this.
Save the 3D macro via the Edit > Create window macro menu items.
Generate a 3D macro from 3D files

This function works in the same way as Generating macros from DXF / DWG files.
1. Select Utilities > Generate macros > From 3D files.
3D window macros (*.ema) are generated directly from single or multiple STEP files, without
being loaded into a layout space and edited before saving.
Generate a 3D macro from a macro project
In the same way as 2D macros, 3D macros can be generated automatically from macro projects.
Select the menu items Utilities > Generate macros > Automatically from macro project.
All 3D macros or each individually selected one are saved from the macro project layout spaces as
*.ema or *.ems files.
Note:
For the sake of optimal performance in your work with the EPLAN platform, you should save 2D and 3D
data not in a single macro file, but only in separate macro files. This way you can ensure that 2D users do
not necessarily have to access the extensive 3D data volume.

We recommend that you store the macro file with the 3D data and the "3D mounting layout"
representation type in parts management on the Mounting data tab in the Graphical macro field. The
macro file with the 2D data and the other representation types (Multi-line, Overview, etc.) should be
entered, as before, in the Technical data tab of parts management in the Macro field. The files could be
distinguished, for example, on the basis of name extensions (e.g., 3D macro ABC.12345_3D.ema and the
corresponding 2D macro ABC.12345_2D.ema).
In all actions in the 3D environment for which a part macro is used (e.g., Insert devices), it is the
"graphical part macro" that is checked first. If on the Mounting data tab a graphical macro has been
entered for the part, and if it contains the desired "3D mounting layout" representation type, this macro
will be used. If not, the "technical part macro" defined on the Technical data tab will be used.
Inserting 3D Macros
3D macros are placed in the layout space in the same way as devices.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator is open and a layout space is open.
1. Select the Insert > Window macro menu items.

The Select macro dialog is displayed.
2. Select the *.ema file that you would like to place in the layout space.
The name of the 3D macro file is transferred to the File name field. The macro description text is
displayed in the dialog. Click the Preview check box to display the graphical preview of the 3D
macro.
3. Click [Open].
The 3D macro hangs on the cursor. The handle defined in the 3D macro file is displayed as an
orange cuboid.
Each time pushbutton [A] is actuated, the handle changes from the original position to one of the
other possible handles. The handle currently selected is colored red.
5. Move the 3D macro close to a mounting panel or another object.
As when placing devices, the mounting surface or mounting rail under the cursor is automatically
activated. 3D snap points are also displayed.

6. Click at the required position to place the 3D macro.
7. Set the desired numbering options in the Insertion mode dialog and click [OK].
The 3D macro is inserted. The macro remains on the cursor and you can keep placing it until you
use [Esc] to cancel placement.
Changing the Rotation Angle when Inserting 3D Macros
When inserting a 3D macro, you can rotate the angle of the macro at the handle in 90 steps. In
conjunction with changing the handles, this means that you can implement as many as 40 different
mounting positions for a single 3D macro. This also applies to devices that have a 3D macro assigned to
their parts.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The layout space navigator is open and a layout space is open.
1. Select the Insert > Window macro menu items, and open a 3D macro for placement.
The macro will be taken to the currently selected handle on the cursor.
2. Select the Options > Change rotation angle menu items.
The position of the 3D macro will be rotated 90 counterclockwise.
Each time the Options > Change rotation angle menu items are selected, the macro is rotated a
further 90.
3. Click [A] to change the handle.
4. At the changed handle, select the Options > Change rotation angle menu items again.
You can set four different rotation angles at each available handle. This means that with nine
default handles and one user-defined handle, as many as 40 possible positions can be
implemented.
Tip:
You can also use the [Ctrl] + [Shift] + [R] shortcut key to change the rotation angle while
inserting.
Generating Routing Connections

Routing means generating routing connections of the "3D mounting layout" representation type. These
connections can be routed in the layout space. A routing connection has all the properties that a multiline connection has, but it also contains information on its routing track.
It is generally multi-line connections being routed for whose targets there is a placed 3D part placement.
The routing generates a routing connection if only an existing multi-line connection is routed. For
connections of a single-line representation type, routing is not possible, and the menu item is
deactivated.
Routing connections are displayed in the layout space in their conductor color and with their external
diameter. If neither is defined, a default representation will be displayed.
Routing yields the following information:
Tracks for wiring
Length of wires
Termination processing of wires
Fill capacity of wire ducts.
The following reports can be generated on the basis of the calculated routing connections:
Wires parts list as mounting instruction for the wiring of the enclosure
Control files for wire fabrication machines that manufacture the wires of the length determined,
print them, and equip them with the appropriate wire terminations.
Generating Routing Connections: Principle

Connections are routed in several consecutive steps:
Definition of connections in the schematic, assignment of a part to the connection
Placement of 3D part placements of the objects involved in the layout space
Definition of a routing path network that is available for the routing of the connection
Generation of routing connections
Determination of the routing track (total number of routing paths, wiring cut-outs or routing
ranges that a connection routed in the layout space runs through).
The routing affects highlighted objects to which connections are connected. It is possible to select objects
in the layout space and in all project data navigators. In the navigators, you can select connections
individually or also several at once.
If the routing path network in the layout space is not current, the routing path network will be recalculated automatically prior to the routing.
It is multi-line connections being routed for whose targets there is a placed 3D part placement. It is
recommended to store parts at the multi-line connections.
Multi-line connections that do not have an assigned part generate routing connections as lines,
because there is no information on the external diameter.
If the multi-line connection has an assigned wire part, the routing connection will be generated in
color and diameter according to the default from the part, and is thus also prepared for the
ordering or manufacturing of the wires.
Function definitions of the connections

Only connections with the following function definitions are routed:
Conductor / wire
Connection general
Tube
Pipe
Non-electrical connection
Optical fiber
Wire jumper
Process engineering.
Properties of the routing connections

The following properties are entered at the connection during routing:
Property
Meaning
Length
Length of the connection from the source to the target. The length is determined
from all routing paths and routing ranges that have been passed through, including
the additional length from the connection point pattern, the extra length of wiring
cut-outs and bending radii.
Routing track
Here, the routing paths, routing ranges, and wiring cut-outs that have been passed
through from the source to the target are listed with the DT. The names are
separated by a semicolon.
An empty Routing track property indicates a non-routed connection. If a route is
removed, this property will be cleared again.
The Routing track specification (layout space) connection property is filled by
modifying the route manually. Subsequently, the connection filters are no longer
taken into account for the routing of these connections.
Routing track
specification
The routing track specification of a connection has priority. For example, if a voltage
is not permitted, but the routing path / routing range has been entered in the
routing track specification, the routing path / routing range will be used and routed
without taking into account any other connection filters.
Wire termination
The intended processing of wire terminations is entered for routing connections
processing source /
according to the settings.
target
Connection size
source / target
During routing, the connection size is carried over from the properties of the part
placement (Connection point pattern tab) to these two properties.
Routing direction
source / target
The routing directions, e.g., "To the right, move down", are determined
automatically on the basis of the completed routing of the connection. They reflect
the direction of the routing of the wire from the devices to the routing track, and
provide important information for the wirer.
Dual sleeve
This property is imported from the properties of the part placement (Connection
prescribed (source /
point pattern tab) or part (from the assigned connection point pattern).
target)
Displaying Connection Points Graphically

Connection points at 3D part placements can be rendered visible in the layout space. This allows you to
better estimate whether their position and connection point direction are suitable for existing routing
paths and wire ducts, so that routing connections can find the connection points reliably. If this is not the
case, you must modify either the connection point direction or the course of the routing paths.
In the graphical display, connection points cannot be deleted, moved or duplicated. Connection point
data is modified in the property dialog of the part placement.
1. Select the menu items View > Connection points.

The connection points of the part placements are displayed as a red cuboid.
The transparency of all part placements with connection points is set to 50%.
If the cursor touches a connection point, a tooltip is displayed showing the plug DT and
connection point designation.
Inserting Routing Paths

Routing paths are automatically or manually inserted default paths along which connections can be
routed. Graphically, the routing paths are displayed as blue lines with snap points at the starting/end
points and the center.
Automatic routing paths are generated when you execute the Generate routing path network action on
the basis of placed wire ducts, routing ranges, and wiring cut-outs.
Manual routing paths are not linked to wire ducts, etc.:
Manual routing paths define the routing track by means of any starting and end points of the
user's choice.
A manual routing path is drawn like a line.
Starting and end points of a manual routing path can be connected to snap points of existing
routing paths (automatic and manual).
Manual routing paths are assigned a Routing path cross-section property that indicates the fill
capacity. Here, you can enter a value manually, which is used as a basis for calculating the fill
capacity. If no routing path cross-section is entered, the fill capacity will not be calculated.
All routing paths are assigned the properties Length and Length (automatic). Length (automatic)
corresponds automatically to the geometric length. In the Length property, you can enter a value
manually if a length reserve is necessary for moving the connection (e.g., connection of a door to
a mounting panel).
1. Select the menu items Insert > Routing path.

The status bar shows a prompt "Starting point of the routing path".
2. Move the cursor close to an existing routing path end.
The routing path end of the existing routing path is captured.
3. Place the starting point by clicking the captured point.

The status bar shows a prompt "End point of the routing path".
4. Pull the routing path apart in the desired direction like a line.
5. Place the end point freely or by capturing a further point on another routing path.
The manual routing path is displayed in the layout space.
Like with a polyline, the end point of the last routing path becomes the starting point of the next
routing path. The function remains active until you exit the action with [Esc] or the Cancel action
popup menu item.
Tip:
If the end point of the routing path to be placed is located on a spatially distant item (e.g., on the back of
a door), then during placement use the Rotate viewing angle function or change the 3D viewpoint in
order to recognize the change in direction and the target of the routing path in the 3D representation
correctly.
Inserting Routing Ranges

Routing ranges are part of the routing path network. In routing ranges, connections are not routed along
a routing path, but always it is the shortest possible and direct connection that is routed. This way, for
example, it possible to implement wiring on the back of a mounting panel.
The placement of routing ranges is similar to that of locked areas.
A cuboid with transparent representation is generated.
No items may be located in or protrude into routing ranges, because they are not taken into
account during routing. This condition is checked by a check run (P026036).
Routing ranges placed next to each other are not connected with each other automatically. The
connection must be established through manual routing paths that terminate at the edges.
1. Select the menu items Insert > Routing range.

The status bar shows a prompt "Starting point of the routing range".
When determining the starting and end point, you can use the Placement options popup menu
item, and use the relative coordinate input.
2. Place the starting point of the routing range on an activated area.
The status bar shows a prompt "End point of the routing range".
3. Pull the routing range apart in the desired direction like a rectangle.
4. Place the end point freely, or capture another point.
The routing range is inserted as a transparent cuboid on the activated area.
Inserting Wiring Cut-Outs

Wiring cut-outs are used to steer connections during routing to the back of mounting panels, partitions,
or other enclosure items.
The placement of wiring cut-outs is similar to that of locked areas.
Wiring cut-outs are inserted in the layout space as cuboids.
Wiring cut-outs have the Extra length property. If the value of this property is empty at the wiring
cut-out, the value from the Extra length wiring cut-outs project setting (under the Connections >
Routing connections category, Route tab) is used. During routing, the extra length is added once
to each connection that passes through.
A wiring cut-out contains only a routing path. As a result, it can only receive connections from
one direction.
1. Select the Insert > Wiring cut-out menu items.

The status bar shows a prompt "Starting point of the wiring cut-out".
When determining the starting and end point, you can use the Placement options popup menu
item, and use the relative coordinate input.
2. Place the starting point of the wiring cut-out on an activated area of a mounting panel.
The status bar shows a prompt "End point of the wiring cut-out".
3. Pull the wiring cut-out apart in the desired direction like a rectangle.
4. Place the end point freely, or capture another point.
The wiring cut-out is inserted in the item as a cuboid.
Using Connection Filters
Wire ducts, routing paths, routing ranges, and wiring cut-outs have the Connection filter property. The
connection filter is used for routing to control which connections may be routed through the routing
track. The values of such criteria can be color assignments of wires or voltage values.
The assignment of values to the connections to be routed is purely textual. Free text is used to define the
values, but it must also be added to the connection parts.
Set project settings for connection filters
The values that can be activated or deactivated in the Connection filter dialog are set in the project
settings.
1. To call up the settings of the connection filter, select the menu items Options > Settings >
Projects > "Project name" > Connections > Routing connections.
The Settings: Routing connections dialog is displayed.
2. In the Settings: Routing connections dialog, select the Connection filter tab.
3. Click the [...] button.
4. From the Criteria selection dialog select a connection property for which the values are to be
displayed in the connection filter, e.g., Connection color / number, and click [OK].
5. In the table in the Value column, enter text that describes the filter criterion, e.g., "Blue", "Red",
"Black", "Yellow". You can use 15 lines for this.
6. Click [OK].
The set values are stored and displayed there when opening the Connection filter dialog.
Apply connection filter
Apply the values defined in the connection filter to the objects that are involved in the routing process.
In the layout space select one or several wire ducts or routing paths, and select the menu items
Popup menu > Properties.
The Properties (components): Part placement (3D) dialog is displayed.
Select the Connection filter property, and in the Value column click [...].
The Connection filter dialog is displayed. The table displays the values that you have defined in
the project settings.
Activate the Active check box above the table in order to enable the connection filter generally.
Now the individual values in the table can be activated or deactivated.
Activate or deactivate the Active check box in the table in front of each value that is to be applied
to this connection.
Click [OK].
Dialog Properties (components): Part placement (3D) displays in the Value field of the Connection
filter property all values that you have activated in the connection filter.
During routing, only the connections are routed through the edited routing path that corresponds
to the set values.
Generating a Routing Path Network

The graphical objects in the layout space are the basis for creating the routing path network in which the
connection is routed. Wire ducts are equipped with routing paths automatically. Wire ducts do not
necessarily have to be placed at a distance = 0 from the next channel to locate a connection between the
channels. Using the Distance tolerance for adjoining wire ducts project setting (under the Connections >
Routing connections category, Route tab), you can set the distance tolerance to be bridged in routing
between wire ducts.
By adding appropriate routing paths, the routing path network can be extended, or several individual
areas can be connected to each other, e.g., mounting panel and door. After modifying the course of the
routing paths, the routing path network has to be generated anew.
Once you have:
A project opened.
You have highlighted objects in the layout space or layout space navigator.
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Generate routing path network.
An automatic routing path is routed through each wire duct.
The routing paths of wire ducts placed next to each other are connected; open duct ends are
given a transverse routing path in order to receive connections.
Routing ranges are incorporated without routing paths fully as part of the routing path network.
Information on all routing paths found in the layout space (geometric position, direction,
preceding routing path, subsequent routing path) is collected and compiled into a routing path
network. This net is the information basis for calculating the routing track.
Note:
A full report of the opened layout space is generated at the time the routing path network is generated.
It is also possible to select several layout spaces in the layout space navigator in order to generate a joint
report of all of them. For this purpose, a separate routing path network is calculated for each layout
space; routing from one layout space to another, therefore, is not possible.
Deleting Automatic Routing Paths
In generating routing path networks, automatic routing paths are generated within wire ducts, at the
ends, and for the purpose of bridging intermediate spaces between wire ducts. These automatic routing
paths cannot be selected and edited. If the routing track is only to be defined by manually placed routing
paths, the automatic routing paths can be removed from the routing path network prior to routing.
Once you have:
A project opened.
You have calculated the routing path network in the opened layout space.
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Delete automatic routing paths.
All automatic routing paths of the wire ducts are removed for the opened layout space.
Optimizing Nets Automatically

With automatic optimization, the connections of the net / daisy chains are redesigned in such a way that
the following conditions are met:
All connection points continue to be connected.
The sum of the wires to be routed is as short as possible.
No more than connections terminate in a connection point.
A daisy chain is always generated.
Once you have:

Created routing connections. In the layout space navigator or connections navigator, a component is
highlighted that contains routing connections (layout spaces, enclosures, mounting surfaces, 3D part
placements, connections).
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Optimize nets automatically.
The Optimize nets automatically dialog is displayed.
If the selection did not contain a net, or contained an incomplete net, an error message will be
displayed. In this case, repeat and modify your selection.
2. In the Optimize nets automatically dialog, select the settings for net optimization.
3. Click [OK].
The nets are analyzed.
The Optimize nets automatically: Preview of result dialog is displayed. The dialog shows the
results of the analysis and allows you to route the new connections derived from the
optimization.
4. In the Optimize nets automatically: Preview of result dialog, click [OK].
The connections classified as status = "New" are routed in the new routing tracks.
Displaying Routing Path View
Routing path view is defined as the highlighting of the currently valid routing path network. The routing
path view can be displayed in full or filtered through the respective valid connection filter.
1. Select the menu items View > Connections > Routing path view.
The routing path view is displayed. All channels, routing tracks, wiring cut-outs, and routing paths
through which a connection can run are highlighted.
The transparency of all part placements in the layout space is set to 50%. The wire ducts and
routing ranges involved in the currently valid routing path network are excluded from the
transparency highlighting to make them more clearly visible. Automatic routing paths are not
highlighted.
Connection filter for routing path view

In connection with the display of the routing path view, you can set in the connection filter the criteria to
be considered for the routing path view. Connections that correspond to the activated criteria are
hidden. Connections that correspond to the non-activated criteria are displayed as transparent.
Select the menu items View > Connections > Filter.

The Connection filter dialog is displayed.
Activate or deactivate the required criteria.
Click [OK].
All ducts, routing tracks, wiring cut-outs and routing paths through which a connection can run
are hidden if they meet at least one of the activated criteria. Tracks for which no criterion has
been activated are represented as transparent.
Routing Connections
Routing generates routing connections between the 3D part placements that follow the real course of the
wires and cables in the routing path network. If there are no connection points defined for a part
placement, they will be generated prior to the routing.
Apart from the routing track, the length of wires is also determined. All information thus determined can
be used as wiring instructions or to control wire fabrication machines.
Once you have:
A project opened.
The routing path network is generated.
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Route.
In the status bar, you are prompted to select the connections to be routed.
2. Enter the two corner points of a rectangle that comprises the part placements and connections to
be routed.
The most efficient routing track is calculated. The routing connections are displayed in 3D
representation.
The routing connections are assigned the properties Length, Routing track, Routing track
specification, Connection size, Routing direction, Wire termination processing, and Dual sleeve
prescribed.
Example:
Changing a Route
The routing track of a connection determined by routing can be influenced by modifying the route.
Routed connections can be routed from a routing path to another routing path.
Non-routed connections can be placed on a routing path, so that routing connections are created
from them
The Routing track specification (layout space) connection property is filled by modifying the route.
Subsequently, the connection filters are no longer taken into account for the routing of these
connections.
Use the Routing points to modify a route. These points are displayed during manual modifications to the
route. By moving a routing point to another, it is possible to modify the routing path of connections. If
several connections run through the routing path or duct, a selection dialog will be displayed where you
choose the connection that is to be moved into the new routing path / new duct. The routing paths and
routing ranges are then entered in the Routing track specification (layout space) property at the selected
connections.
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Change route.
On manual and automatic routing paths, and on visible non-routed connections, cuboid-shaped
routing points become visible. In the case of routing ranges, a routing point becomes visible in
the center of each routing range.
The status bar shows a prompt "Select source routing path".

2. Move the cursor close to a point that belongs to a routing path that you want to remove from the
routing track.
The routing point is framed with a red square as a snap point.
3. Click to select the snap point.
The status bar shows a prompt "Select target routing path".
4. Move the cursor close to a point that belongs to a routing path through which the connection is
to be re-routed.
Between the initially selected routing point of the source routing path and the cursor, a white line
is displayed.
5. Click to select the routing point of the target routing path.
The Connections dialog is displayed, which lists all the connections routed through the source
routing path. Displayed connections are already highlighted in the dialog.
6. Activate the check box in the Change route column for the connections that are to be re-routed
in the selected target routing path.
7. Click [OK].
The selected connections are re-routed.
Displaying Fill Capacity

After connections have been routed, the program will know the wire ducts and routing paths through
which the wires run. If the dimensions of the wire ducts and external diameters of the wires are known,
the program can estimate whether the routing paths are dimensioned sufficiently large in order to
accommodate all wires.
As the number of connections increases, so does also the number of wires in the wire duct increase. This
can create space problems particularly in the junction area of wire ducts. The Display fill capacity function
provides feedback on the space reserves in wire ducts and manual routing paths. This way, you can see
where you must modify specific routes in order to force routing through less crowded routing paths even
if another path would be shorter, but would result in over-allocation.
In the case of automatic routing paths (wire ducts), the cross-section available to the routed connections
is calculated from the dimensions of the wire ducts involved. This cross-section can be carried over to
manual routing paths if they are connected to an automatic routing path. If not, then you must enter a
default value in the Cross-section routing path property. The actual fill capacity is calculated from the
available cross-section of the routing paths and the cross-section that is taken up by the routed
connections.
The fill capacity of wire ducts is indicated by a color identifier. In this context, three states are
differentiated:
Red: The channel / routing path is considered full.
Yellow: The fill capacity is below the fill capacity limit, but above the alert limit.
Green: The fill capacity is below the alert limit.
The fill capacity limit and alert limit are project settings and thus adjustable. By default, the fill capacity
limit is at 80%, and the alert limit at 70%.
1. Select the menu items View > Connections > Fill Capacity.
The transparency of all wire ducts is set to 80%.
The fill capacity determined is displayed by way of color surfaces on the floor of the wire duct.
Transparent cuboids are generated around manual routing paths whose base color indicates the
fill capacity.
Update fill capacity
After each modification to the routing path network of routed connections, the fill capacity has to be
calculated again.
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Update fill capacity.
The current fill capacity of the wire ducts and manual routing paths is calculated and indicated by
color surfaces.
Bundling Connections
The option of organizing and combining wires routed consecutively or in parallel into bundles and of
making them available as labeled bundles for wiring accelerates the wiring process and streamlines
further the entire enclosure manufacture.
There are two methods for bundling routing connections:
In the case of Automatic bundling, bundle numbers are determined by the program and written
into the Bundle property of the routing connections.
In the case of Manual bundling, bundle numbers are entered by the user manually in the Bundle
property of the routing connections.
Using the interfaces for wire fabrication, you can evaluate this information and transfer to the
manufacturing robots that produce the appropriate combined and labeled bundles.
Bundle connections automatically
Once you have:
A project opened and has generated several routing connections. Routing connections are
highlighted in the connections navigator.
1. Select the menu items Project data > Connections > Bundle.
The Bundle connections automatically dialog is displayed.
2. In the Start value field, enter the number from which to start incrementing the bundle numbers.
3. In the Increment field, enter the distance by which the respective next bundle number is to be
incremented.
4. In the Criteria for bundle group box, activate the check boxes for the criteria according to which
the bundles are to be generated. For example, using the criteria Source, Target, and Mounting
surface, you can create bundles of connections that are to be wired on the same mounting
panels.
5. Activate the Bundle by enclosures check box if you want to generate individual bundles for
several enclosures.
6. Select the Apply to entire project check box if you wish to bundle all connections in the project.
7. Activate the Preview of result check box if you want to check the bundles to be generated
beforehand and sort connections manually into other bundles.
8. Start automatic bundling using [OK].

The Bundle connections: Preview of result dialog is displayed.
9. Click [OK].
The connections are assigned to the bundles determined. The bundle number is entered in the
Bundle property of each connection.

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What is the purpose of layout spaces?

What is the purpose of layout spaces?

What are the different ways to generate 3D macros?

What are the different ways to generate 3D macros?

EPLAN project

EPLAN parts management

EPLAN Pro Panel

activate mounting spaces for placing devices

3D mounting layout navigator

3D macros are managed in a macro project.

Layout space > Import > 3D graphic

Edit > Graphic > Unite

Edit > Graphic > Rotate around axis

Base Points: Principle

Frame profile down: Left front

Frame profile down: Left rear

Frame profile down: Right front

Frame profile down: Right rear.

Frame profile horizontal cover

Frame profile up: Left front

Frame profile up: Left rear

Frame profile up: Right front

Frame profile up: Right rear.

User-defined base points

Import of the 3D graphic via interfaces (e.g., STEP)

Definition of the placement area

Definition of mounting surfaces on the items.

Function definition: Enclosure, general

Item designation: Enclosure

Transparency: From layer

Color: From layer

Layer: EPLAN560, 3D graphic. Enclosure.

Property Item is fastened unmovably to the superior item

devices placed on it will be output.

Part reference data

Creating and Deleting a Layout Space

Delete a layout space

Make changes to field(s) as required

Select Popup menu (right mouse click) > Delete

Enter further properties if required.

The selected layout space is deleted from the project

Close a layout space

Select Layout space > Open.

Select Layout space > Close.

Select View > 3D viewpoint.

Terminal strips (block definition)

Changing the background colors for the 3D view

Activating Mounting Surfaces Automatically

Have a project opened.

Activating Mounting Surfaces Directly

Have a project opened.

1. Select a mounting surface in the layout space navigator tree view.

The layout space navigator and a layout space are opened.

1. Select the menu items Insert > Mounting panel.

Placing Free Mounting Panels in the 3D Mounting Layout

1. Select the menu item Insert > Free mounting panel.

Placing Enclosures in the 3D Mounting Layout

Once you have:

The layout space navigator and a layout space are opened.