Technical advances in navigation systems and automated computer controls for onboard machinery such as cranes and winches have created electrical system integration challenges for boat builders, no matter what the size of the vessel. Although the smaller workboat may not have quite as much complexity to overcome in the electrical system, there are still similar cabling design problems to be resolved. Just like many designers and engineers, when faced with technology challenges, marine engineers turn to other technology to solve the problems. One such tool is CAD software called Eł.cable for the design, documentation, and verification of electrical cable systems.

Eł.cable allows engineers to create block diagrams under logic control, which provides an overview of all electronic, electrical and hydraulic elements in the design. With this defined, the user can go on to connect all the functional modules using single wires, shielded or twisted cables and bundles. It will automatically calculate wire lengths and voltage drops, define cable spacing, select correct connectors, identify collisions and deal with susceptible wires. Engineers can view cables and connectors in various formats on different sheets and output assembly drawings or signal tables to supply to the fabrication team.

This cutting edge software tool is part of the Eł.series suite for the design and documentation of electrical control systems. The Windows based tool can be used by a novice, or for more advanced system design, there is also functionality to accommodate the most expert of engineers. This software has been used in the transport sector, from aerospace through to automotive and rail manufacturers, and has been adopted by companies of all sizes.

For further information visit www.zuken.com/e3