Case study: Panasonic Electric Works Europe AG - FP-Sigma PLC

Case study: Panasonic Electric Works Europe AG - FP-Sigma PLC   

Flexible network connectivity for Panasonic FP-Sigma PLC's based on embedded Anybus CompactCom modules.

Initial situation
Modern automation systems require a high degree of flexibility, which is attained by
modular design, full programmability and flexible communication interfaces.

The FP-Sigma PLC is one member of PEW’s PLC family featuring the very latest control technology and a compactstructural design.

Panasonic was looking for a modular communication solution that allowed their FP-Sigma PLC to connect to multiple fieldbus and industrial Ethernet networks.

Due to the size restrictions of the FP-Sigma PLC, the communication interface needed to have a small size and low power consumption with 3.3V technology.

Solution
Panasonic chose the Anybus CompactCom (Anybus-CC) communication modules from HMS as the network communication interface for their FP-Sigma PLC's. The modular approach of the Anybus technology gives flexibility and allows Panasonic to integrate the FP-Sigma PLC as a Slave into all major industrial networks.

Benefits
PEW decided to use the embedded Anybus-CC communication modules for several reasons. Compared to internal development, Anybus technology from HMS reduces costs by approximately 70%. Further, the time-to-market is shortened substantially and the development risk minimized. PEW expects a return on investment within one year after the start of sales. Initially, PEW approved three Anybus-CC communication modules. Step by step, PEW will expand their communication capabilities and will approve more Anybus modules for the new industrial Ethernet and wireless networks.

Ralf Wohlschlaeger, Senior General Manager for Automation Control Devices (ACD), says, “PEW has chosen HMS as its preferred partner for industrial communication and recognizes HMS among the technology leaders in this segment. We decided to concentrate on our own competence and trust in HMS to provide us with reliable and proven solutions for industrial communication. Panasonic and HMS complement each other. Together we provide flexible solutions that allow us to fulfil the requirements of our demanding international customers”.

Based on good initial results, PEW decided to use the Anybus-CC communication modules also in its FP2 PLC series. Further applications are under investigation.

About Panasonic
Panasonic Electric Works (PEW), headquartered in Kadoma, Japan, and a member of the Matsushita group, is a world leading manufacturer of electric and electronic equipment. Matsushita employs more than 378,000 people and achieves sales exceeding EUR 76 billion. PEW Europe is one of Matsushita Electric Works´ 5 global poles and serves the European market. The European headquarters is located near Munich, Germany.