What specific advantages does the digital twin offer compared to conventional 2D planning?
The digital twin fundamentally transforms electrical engineering planning through its multidimensional added value. Unlike 2D plans, it offers a virtual, physically correct image with precise spatial relationships, material properties and functional relationships. This enables the early identification of planning errors and reduces correction loops by up to 70%. Virtual commissioning typically shortens the project lead time by 30-40%. Particularly valuable is the automated consistency check between the circuit diagram and 3D model, which eliminates manual transmission errors. The digital twin provides precise NC data for production, which significantly reduces production costs. The ROI of this technology is reflected in reduced modification costs, accelerated time-to-market and improved operating characteristics - measurable economic benefits that conventional methods cannot offer.
How can the digital twin be integrated into existing development and production processes?
The integration of digital twins into existing workflows is achieved through a systematic implementation strategy with minimal process disruption. We start with a detailed analysis of your current CAE landscape and identify optimal interfaces to PLM, ERP and manufacturing systems. Our 3D models are integrated as a central data source, with bidirectional connectors ensuring permanent data synchronization with your existing systems. For production integration, we develop customized export modules that provide NC data, assembly instructions and test reports in the required format. Implementation is modular and phased so that partial functions can already be used productively during implementation. Training programs accompany the process and ensure a smooth adaptation of the new technology. Through this methodical integration, the digital twin gradually becomes the central information hub for your technical processes - without disruptive interventions in functioning processes.
What data and information do you need to create an accurate digital twin?
To create a precise digital twin, we need a structured database that we can flexibly adapt to your existing level of information. The provision of basic electrical planning (circuit diagrams, wiring diagrams), device specifications (data sheets, 3D models of the components) and spatial framework conditions (building plans, installation situations) is ideal. Existing operating data is particularly valuable for retrofit projects, as it provides information on load behavior and thermal characteristics. If not all the information is available, we can create the necessary basis through targeted data acquisition on site (3D scanning, thermographic images). Our modular approach allows the digital twin to be refined step by step - starting with a basic model that is successively enriched with additional parameters and functionalities. This flexibility ensures that even with incomplete initial data, a functional digital twin is quickly created that can be continuously optimized.
Can existing systems be subsequently modeled as digital twins?
The subsequent modelling of existing systems as digital twins - known as retrofitting - is one of our core competencies and offers particularly high optimization potential. We have developed a specialized workflow based on precise as-built data acquisition: Using high-resolution 3D laser scanning technology, we capture the exact geometry of existing systems. This point cloud data is compared with the electrical documentation and converted into an accurate 3D model. Thermographic analyses also provide valuable data on thermal behavior under operating conditions. If the documentation is incomplete or outdated, we carry out a systematic system measurement and component identification. The resulting digital twin not only serves as up-to-date documentation, but also forms the basis for modernizations, expansions or optimizations - with the decisive advantage that all measures can be virtually validated in advance. This method has proven particularly useful for complex existing systems, where conversion measures would involve considerable risks without precise digital preparation.
How does the digital twin support maintenance and servicing during operation?
The digital twin is revolutionizing maintenance and servicing by transforming it from reactive to predictive system support. As a virtual counterpart to the physical plant, it serves as interactive, always up-to-date documentation that guides maintenance technicians precisely to components and provides context-sensitive service information. The implementation of condition monitoring interfaces enables real-time synchronization of operating data with the digital model, allowing anomalies to be detected at an early stage. The predictive failure analysis, which is based on historical data and physical simulations and identifies potential problems before they lead to costly failures, is particularly valuable. In the event of faults, the digital twin supports fault diagnosis by visualizing dependencies and potential sources of error. Maintenance scenarios can be run through virtually in order to determine optimal procedures and minimize operational interruptions. The continuous enrichment of the model with maintenance history and operating experience creates a self-learning knowledge store that constantly makes system maintenance more efficient - a dynamic system that demonstrably reduces your operating costs and maximizes system availability.
Which norms and standards do you take into account in 3D design?
Our 3D designs follow a strict compliance framework that integrates all relevant national and international standards. The focus is on IEC/DIN EN 61439 for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies and IEC/DIN EN 60204 for the electrical equipment of machines. For functional safety, we implement the requirements of IEC/DIN EN 61508 and industry-specific derivations. The thermal design is carried out in accordance with IEC/DIN EN 61439-1 with detailed simulations using the latest calculation models. We also take into account industry-specific standards such as ATEX for potentially explosive atmospheres, the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and UL standards for the North American market. We prepare documentation in accordance with IEC/DIN EN 61082 and IEC/DIN EN 81346. Our engineering team keeps up to date with the latest standards through continuous training and proactively implements changes in our design processes. This comprehensive conformity with standards not only guarantees the technical compliance of your systems, but also ensures their global marketability and legal protection - a key factor for internationally operating companies.
How is data security guaranteed when exchanging and using digital twins?
Our data security architecture for digital twins follows a holistic protection concept with several layers of security. It is based on a granular authorization system that defines exactly which user groups can access which model elements. All transmission paths are secured by modern encryption technologies (TLS 1.3/AES-256) and provided with digital signatures for integrity checks. Particularly sensitive design data is protected by additional layers of encryption. We implement seamless audit logging, which logs every modification to the digital twin and makes it traceable. Server-side data storage takes place in ISO 27001-certified data centers with physical access control and redundant data backup. Special collaboration modules with temporary, restricted access rights are available for shared use with external partners. This multi-level security architecture ensures maximum protection of your digital company know-how while at the same time providing flexibility in use and sharing - a balanced system that optimally combines security and practicability.