Gefran simplifies complexity with the G-Mation automation platform and the new G-Mation P6 PLC

“Proliferation of data sources, new automation architectures, migration to IT communication standards, integration to the cloud, applications of artificial intelligence…ongoing trends pose potentially very complex challenges for machine builders. These are challenges that must be faced and overcome, as they represent the key to achieving a major leap in productivity and efficiency, enabling OEMs to increase both competitiveness and marginality.” comments Marco Svara, Chief Technology Officer at Gefran, who continues ”But complexity can be simplified. How? By using process controllers that also implement data analysis and transmission capabilities, based on open architectures and designed to be securely integrated with cloud applications.”

G-Mation is an open, scalable platform that implements the IEC 61131-3 standard for PLC programming and provides continuity with the entire application stack developed by Gefran over the years. In addition, it includes an architecture based on Docker technology that allows countless functionalities to be integrated in the form of apps, just as in the case of tablets and smartphones.

This architecture was designed from the beginning to have no impact on process control performance. Many of the PLC configuration and diagnostic features are implemented in the form of apps, with the ability to add new applications through a dedicated web interface.

The entire G-Mation platform is based on the “real time” Ethercat communication protocol: individual I/O modules represent Ethercat nodes, while the P6 PLC can manage two separate Ethercat networks, also supporting ring, star and tree network topologies. Compatibility with existing applications is ensured by the availability of CanOpen and Modbus masters on the PLC as well.

On the connectivity side to Cloud or other Edge devices, the G-Mation P6 implements MQTT, OPC UA and Euromap communication standards, to which are added SQL/non-SQL databases and versatile low-code/no-code communication configuration interfaces.

Finally, the PLC has a built-in web server for generating html pages that can be viewed on browser panels or supervisory workstations, as well as on any control and monitoring PC or tablet. Visualization via html pages is complementary to the use of traditional Java pages, which are already available at launch and ensure continuity with the entire portfolio of applications already developed with Gefran automation platforms. The advantages of html pages include: scalability to any display size without changes to the application code, intuitive user interface, customization by the operator, and a user experience similar to tablets and commonly used web pages.

“G-Mation’s main areas of application include the plastics processing sector, where Gefran has consolidated expertise. In this sense, specific application templates are already available for extrusion, blow molding and injection, easily configured on the main types of machines on the market, whether electric, hybrid or hydraulic,” says Marco Svara, Gefran’s Chief Technology Officer, who concludes, ”Versatility, modularity and interoperability make G-Mation the ideal solution for both new machines and revamping of existing plants. With this in mind, Gefran opens up to collaboration with Italian and international OEMs, aiming to further extend G-Mation’s horizons to new market segments.”

In addition to P6 PLCs, Gefran’s G-Mation architecture at launch includes G3 I/O modules, which can be integrated either in the CPU body or in a remote configuration, and V44 and V45 HMI panels, based on Java technology and with the option i PLC integrated. Additional G-Mation product releases will take place later this year.

The new P6 PLC, and the entire G-Mation architecture, will be featured at booth F007, Hall 3, at SPS ITALIA, May 13-15, in the Parma exhibition centre.