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Product Development in ECTR in SAP S/4HANA

n this post, we continue our „From Model to Product“ blog series, taking a closer look at the ECTR (Engineering Control Center) module in SAP S/4HANA.

The ECTR module is designed to connect CAD software such as SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge, AutoCAD, Inventor, CATIA V5, Creo, or NX with SAP, offering an intuitive integration using icons and selection list options. 

How ECTR Works: 

  1. Directory Structure: The ECTR builder organizes documents in a tree structure, with nested levels containing document information records. The lowest level contains properties like attached originals or linked objects.
  2. Creating Models: The designer begins by creating a new directory or opening an existing one. Directory logic is defined by the design manager based on the working style and product structure of the design department. 
  3. Document Information Records: The designer creates a new or copies an existing document information record. When changes are made, a new version can be generated using the “Create New Version” option. 
  4. Design Integration: After creating a new model, the designer can open the design program directly from ECTR. Once the model is complete, it is saved in the Document Management System (DMS) within SAP, using the original document information record. 
  5. Material Master Records: The designer can generate material master records for new products directly from ECTR. These records contain detailed information about the material, such as pricing, production methods, and storage information. If the model corresponds to an existing material master, it can be linked directly to the document information record. 
  6. Creating Bill of Materials (BOM): When designing an assembly, the designer generates the BOM in ECTR. Three options are available: a production BOM for the PP module, a versioned construction BOM for the PEO module, or a versioned production BOM for PEO. The selected BOM can then be displayed in the “BOM” work window. 
  7. Document Tracking: Document information records track revisions, manage work-in-progress documents, and approve versions for production using status updates. Drawings (e.g., PDF, JPG) can be attached to the document information record during the final approval stage. 

Integration with Other SAP Modules: 

  • Document information records, material master records, and BOMs are created and stored directly in SAP, making them accessible across various SAP modules. 
  • The material master record generated in ECTR can be opened in the MM (Material Management) module, where the buyer can add pricing and delivery details. 
  • Technologists can view BOMs directly in PEO Engineering without needing to use the ECTR module. 
  • Production workers in PEO Operations can view drawings in PDF format or models in 3D directly within the workflow. 

SAP S/4HANA integrates tightly connected modules, allowing easy access to critical information from various departments across the company. Access is controlled by permissions, ensuring that only authorized users can view or edit certain data. 

 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out! 

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