Using the GOT – How the GOT Functions in Industrial Automation

The Mitsubishi GOT (Graphic Operation Terminal) is a versatile Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that enables operators to monitor, control, and adjust industrial processes in real time. As an interface that bridges operators and automated systems, the GOT performs a wide range of essential functions—from data visualization to interactive control—ensuring efficient management and oversight of complex machinery. This guide explores how the GOT functions and the core operations that enhance productivity, safety, and control in industrial environments.

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Overview of GOT Functions

The Mitsubishi GOT series is designed to optimize interaction between users and industrial processes. Its functions include displaying real-time data, enabling manual control of machinery, setting and adjusting parameters, and managing alarms. By providing intuitive, visual access to machine data and control options, the GOT minimizes the need for physical adjustments and manual intervention.

Key Functionalities of the Mitsubishi GOT:

• Data Visualization: Displays real-time process metrics and status indicators.
• Control Operations: Allows operators to start, stop, and adjust machinery via touch-enabled controls.
• Parameter Settings: Provides tools for configuring and fine-tuning process variables.
• Alarm Management: Alerts operators to system anomalies for quick action.
• Data Logging and Historical Analysis: Records data over time for trend analysis and process optimization.

Real-Time Data Visualization and Monitoring

One of the GOT’s primary functions is real-time data visualization, allowing operators to monitor key metrics and system statuses at a glance.

Displaying Process Metrics

The GOT interface displays critical metrics, such as temperature, pressure, speed, and production counts, in real time. This enables operators to continuously monitor and verify that systems are operating within specified parameters.

• Digital Readouts: Real-time numerical displays provide precise values for metrics, ideal for detailed monitoring.
• Graphs and Trends: Time-based graphs visualize changes in metrics over time, helping identify trends and anomalies.
• Status Indicators: Indicators, like active/inactive lights or color-coded signals, convey system statuses at a glance.

Monitoring Operational Status

Operators can use the GOT to assess the overall status of machinery or processes, enabling proactive adjustments and rapid responses to potential issues.

• Run/Stop Status: Shows whether specific equipment is running or idle, enabling quick checks on operational efficiency.
• Error Notifications: Error icons or pop-ups appear when an issue is detected, guiding operators to areas that require attention.
• Threshold Warnings: Warnings display if metrics approach predefined limits, providing an opportunity for preventive action.

Interactive Control Functions

The GOT HMI’s touchscreen interface allows operators to directly control machinery and processes without needing separate control panels.

Start, Stop, and Reset Commands

Operators can initiate, pause, or reset machinery with a simple touch, providing easy access to essential controls:

• Start/Stop Buttons: On-screen buttons allow for starting or stopping machines directly, reducing response time.
• Reset Controls: After an alarm or emergency stop, reset buttons enable quick reactivation of equipment once the issue is resolved.
• Jog Control: For positioning tasks, jog controls let operators make incremental adjustments, ideal for setting machinery or fine-tuning positions.

Parameter Adjustment

Adjustable parameters, such as speed, temperature, and pressure, allow operators to fine-tune processes for optimal performance:

• Slider and Numeric Inputs: Sliders and input fields provide intuitive methods for setting values, such as adjusting a motor’s RPM or a furnace’s temperature.
• Predefined Presets: Operators can select from predefined settings for different processes or products, standardizing operations and reducing setup time.
• Password Protection: Important settings can be password-protected to ensure only authorized personnel make adjustments.

Alarm and Event Management

Efficient alarm management is critical to ensuring system safety and preventing costly downtime. The GOT HMI displays alarms in real time and categorizes them by severity, guiding operators to resolve issues quickly.

Real-Time Alarms

Real-time alarm alerts appear instantly when issues arise, helping operators address problems before they escalate.

• Visual and Audio Alerts: Visual cues like flashing colors, paired with sound alerts, draw attention to urgent alarms.
• Priority Levels: Alarms are organized by severity, allowing operators to prioritize responses based on the criticality of each issue.
• Acknowledgment and Dismissal: Operators can acknowledge alarms directly on the screen, logging responses and allowing the GOT to return to normal operation.

Historical Alarm Log

The GOT records alarm events for future review, supporting trend analysis and troubleshooting:

• Alarm History: Allows operators to view past alarms, providing insights into recurring issues and potential areas for maintenance.
• Export and Report: Alarm logs can be exported for analysis or record-keeping, helping operators identify patterns and optimize processes.

Data Logging and Analysis

Data logging on the GOT HMI allows for long-term tracking of key metrics, aiding in performance analysis, trend identification, and process improvement.

Continuous Data Logging

The GOT can continuously log data from connected devices, creating records that operators can review to ensure optimal system performance:

• Process Metrics Logging: Tracks variables such as speed, pressure, and temperature over time, helping operators analyze trends.
• Customizable Logging Intervals: Allows operators to set logging intervals based on application requirements, like logging every second for high-speed processes or every minute for slower ones.

Trend Analysis

Operators can review historical data trends directly on the GOT, enabling better insights into process stability and efficiency:

• Graphical Data Review: View logged data as graphs or charts, making it easy to spot trends and patterns in system behavior.
• Adjustable Time Frames: Select time frames to focus on specific periods, such as during high production or maintenance windows, for detailed analysis.

Communication and Data Exchange

The Mitsubishi GOT supports robust data exchange with other devices, including PLCs, sensors, and PCs, enhancing its role as a central hub in industrial automation.

Connectivity with PLCs

The GOT’s seamless integration with Mitsubishi PLCs allows for reliable communication and real-time data exchange.

• Ethernet and Serial Connections: The GOT supports Ethernet, USB, and serial communication protocols, enabling connectivity to multiple PLC models and other devices.
• Real-Time Data Sync: Continuous data exchange ensures that the GOT displays the most current information from the PLC, reducing data lag.
• Device Compatibility: The GOT can communicate with various devices in the system, including sensors and actuators, for complete control over the process.

Remote Monitoring and Control

Operators can use the GOT for remote monitoring and control, providing access to system information and adjustments from a distance:

• Web Access: Some GOT models support web access, allowing operators to monitor and control systems remotely via a secure connection.
• Remote Alarming: Alarms can be set to notify operators remotely, improving response times for off-site issues.

Security Features

The GOT includes essential security features to protect system integrity and prevent unauthorized access to critical settings.

User Access Levels

By defining user access levels, administrators can control who can view, adjust, or modify system settings:

• Role-Based Permissions: Different user roles can be assigned specific permissions, such as monitoring only, limited control, or full access to system settings.
• Password Protection: Important controls and settings can be password-protected to ensure only authorized personnel make changes.

Event Logging and Audit Trails

The GOT logs user actions, providing a clear audit trail that administrators can review for security or compliance purposes:

• Action Tracking: Logs actions taken by operators, such as parameter adjustments or alarm acknowledgments.
• Reviewable History: Access logs support accountability and provide insights into how and when specific settings were changed.

Practical Applications of GOT Functions in Industry

The Mitsubishi GOT’s range of functions supports various industries by enhancing efficiency, safety, and data accessibility in real-time operations.

• Manufacturing: GOTs allow operators to oversee multiple production lines, optimize workflows, and respond to equipment alarms quickly.
• Energy Management: GOTs track energy usage, voltage, and other metrics, helping operators optimize performance and reduce waste.
• Building Automation: Facility managers use GOTs to control HVAC systems, lighting, and security, centralizing building management.
• Food Processing: GOTs monitor and control processes like cooking, cooling, and packaging, ensuring compliance with quality standards.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a Mitsubishi GOT HMI?
A Mitsubishi GOT HMI enables operators to monitor, control, and manage industrial processes through a touchscreen interface, providing real-time data visualization and control capabilities.

How does the GOT HMI display real-time data?
The GOT uses graphical elements like digital readouts, graphs, and status indicators to display real-time metrics from connected devices, allowing operators to monitor performance continuously.

What kind of control operations can be performed on the GOT?
Operators can start, stop, reset equipment, adjust parameters, and manage alarms through the GOT’s interactive touchscreen interface, enabling direct control over machinery.

How does the GOT handle alarms?
The GOT provides real-time visual and audio alarms for immediate issues, categorizes alarms by priority, and logs alarm history for later analysis.

What are the benefits of data logging on the GOT?
Data logging allows for long-term tracking of key metrics, supporting trend analysis, troubleshooting, and process optimization in industrial systems.

Can the GOT communicate with other devices?
Yes, the GOT supports communication with PLCs, sensors, and other devices through Ethernet, USB, and serial connections, enabling real-time data exchange and remote monitoring.

Conclusion