Panasonic Industry combines motion and PLC functionality
For complex motion control applications, the GM1 motion controller has up to 32 axis synchronised torque control. Panasonic Industry’s latest motion controller combines motion functions with the functionality of a PLC, for example positioning, network modules, I/O modules and high frequency counter in one compact controller.
The GM1 also features an integrated axis configuration tool that allows quick and precise programming of up to 32 axes via Panatern Lite for GM. For integration in an industry 4.0 environment, the GM1 motion controller is equipped with OPC UA client and server functions.
The integrated GM1 motion controller reduces the occupied space in the cabinet and allows for response times to be as low as 0.5 milliseconds.
The motion controller houses two independent Ethernet ports, Ethernet/IP and Modbus-TCP, a SD memory slot for 32Gbyte cards, a two-channel high speed counter (4Mhz/8Mhz), and a four-channel PWM output (100kHz).
Panasonic explained that the quick response capabilities of the GM1 mean it is suited to motion applications like a rotary knife, flying shear, labelling, current control, palletizer, crank, cam motion, or print mark control.
The GM1 comes with AFBs (application function blocks) to set up pre-defined functions and to reduce programming time and subsequent costs, claimed the company.
The GM Programmer programming tool is based on Codesys IEC 61131-3 automation software and allows programming with PLCOpen standard functions and a G-Code editor.
The GM1 is compatible with the comprehensive automation portfolio like controllers, motors, or the MINAS A6 and MINAS A6 Multi family.
Panasonic Industry Europe is part of the Panasonic Group and provides automotive and industrial products and services in Europe. The company’s portfolio covers key electronic components, devices and modules up to complete solutions and production equipment for manufacturing lines across a broad range of industries.
