Project Snapshot | CNC Machine Manufacturer

Client : CNC machine Manufacturer – USA
Industry : Machine tools / CNC machining
Location : Chicago, USA
Services Provided : Electrical design for CNC upgrade, 3D panel layout, Eplan standard project & macro library for CNC variants, ERP handling, easy processing for manufacturing of control panels
Software Used : Eplan Pro Panel, Fusion 360, Odoo, MS Office
Key Result : Up to 70% faster engineering for new CNC variants using standardized projects and macros
Duration : From 4 years and ongoing (concept to final documentation)

Client & Project Background

The client is a growing CNC machine manufacturer and control upgrade supplying vertical and horizontal machining centres to domestic and export markets. They wanted to modernize their electrical and control panel designs to support faster customization for different CNC machines and models while keeping documentation consistent and production-ready.

Eplan Pro Panel was selected as the core platform to enable 3D panel design, accurate manufacturing data, and repeatable standards for future machines.

Challenge / Requirements

Existing panel designs were created in old style and Non-Standard format 2D only, with limited reuse between different CNC models.
Engineering teams were spending significant time redrawing similar circuits and layouts for each new machine.
There was no centralized macro library for typical CNC functions (axes drives, spindle, coolant, safety, etc.), leading to variations in voltage and different application.
The client needed a scalable design approach to handle multiple machine configurations while reducing design time and errors.

Solution (APC approach)

1. Design & Engineering

Migrated the existing CNC electrical schematics into Eplan and structured them as a standard reference project.
Built 3D panel layouts in Eplan Pro Panel, including component placement, wiring routes, and space reservations for future options.
Created a consistent device tagging and structuring system for all CNC models (axes, spindle, auxiliary systems, safety, IO, etc.).

2. Standardization & Macros

Identified common functional blocks across different CNC machines (power section, servo drives, spindle, coolant and lubrication, safety relays, IO modules, operator panel).
Developed a macro library in Eplan, so engineers could quickly insert pre-validated circuits and 3D assemblies instead of redrawing each time.
Configured a “standard project” template which included title pages, typical circuits, panel layouts, reports, and manufacturing data as a starting point for every new machine.

3. Execution Model

Worked in a hybrid model: majority of design and macro development offsite, with periodic onsite reviews for alignment with production and commissioning teams.
Conducted training sessions for the client’s engineering team to use the standard project and macros, so they could independently handle future variants and changes.
Taking continuous feedback from production and install team to improve quality and efficiency to minimize errors and input cost.
Working on Odoo ERP for BOM uploads and optimum stock utilization.

Results & Benefits

Engineering efficiency improved by approximately 70% for new CNC machine variants due to reuse of the standard project and macro-based design instead of starting from scratch.
Panel layout errors and late changes reduced significantly, as 3D Pro Panel models provided clear visualization of space, routing, and manufacturing constraints.
Documentation quality became consistent across different machine types, supporting smoother internal reviews and faster clarification with production and service teams.
The client gained a scalable design platform: new machine options or customer-specific variants can now be configured quickly by combining existing macros.

Tools & Technologies Used

Design & panel engineering : Eplan Pro Panel Professional for 2D schematics, 3D panel layout, and Smart manufacturing data (drilling, cut-outs, wiring).
Standards & Practices : Structured device tagging and documentation aligned with CNC machine safety and control requirements.
Outputs Generated : Detailed schematics, 3D panel layouts, terminal diagrams, wiring lists, and machining data for CNC-based enclosure processing.

Case Study