Port of Koper

Luka Koper, working with system integrator, Robotina, d.o.o., selected GENESIS64™ HMI/SCADA and building automation suite, as well as GENESIS32™ HMI/SCADA suite.

As the Port of Koper began expanding both the number and capabilities of its terminals, the port’s management knew it needed to consider updating its control software. In addition to container and vehicle cargo, the port required additional control of equipment such as conveyor belts and scales for items such as iron ore and coal.

As far back as 2004, the port management began to look into how to best scale the control of its operations. At that time, each individual terminal contained its own control solution. The decision was made to work with system integrator, Robotina, which had worked with the port on other projects and had earned a reputation as a reliable partner. In turn, Robotina suggested our automation software solutions in order to consolidate and standardize the port’s control systems.

Prior to implementing Mitsubishi Electric Iconics Digital Solutions’ software, each installation for each separate terminal involved multiple different companies, which required additional time and effort each time. Following the installation of our solutions across all terminals, the port management noted the benefits of standardization, including the ability to make changes across the entire system more quickly.

Multiple individual competitor systems were replaced. The port initially began by installing GENESIS32 32-bit-based software and then eventually moved to the newer GENESIS64 64-bit-based option. The system is connected to multiple vendors’ equipment (comprising over 12,000 tags) including PLCs, sensors, and other devices from Schneider Electric, Hitachi, Cybrotech, Siemens and more. Our system integrates with the port’s existing Microsoft SQL Server and Exchange Server applications, as well as with the port’s own TinO application (Trženje in Operativa); a combination of TOS (terminal operation system) and Port Management system, which supports ordering services, work planning, invoicing, storage, etc.

GENESIS64™ is an advanced 64-bit multi-core, multi-processor HMI/SCADA solution suite designed for Microsoft operating systems. GENESIS64 suite is a native .NET application that delivers unparalleled performance with OPC, BACnet, Modbus, and open standard database connectivity. The software suite provides connectivity from plant floor and building facilities to corporate business systems. Designed to leverage 64-bit, .NET managed code, and OPC UA technologies, GENESIS64 allows opera-tors, executives, and IT professionals to integrate real-time manufacturing, energy, and business information into a secure and unified web-enabled visualization dashboard.

Moving from 32-bit to 64-bit Solutions

For applications running GENESIS32 product, the company created ConverterWorX™, which provides an easy way to convert existing 32-bit applications to the latest, current 64-bit GENESIS64 application format. The ConverterWorX tool allows as much conversion between the 32-bit and 64-bit projects as possible, letting users continue to benefit from the effort put into their existing 32-bit projects.

With competing ports nearby, the Port of Koper looked for a way to differentiate itself in order to stay ahead. The port’s management believes that by utilizing our automation software, it now runs more efficiently, ready to continue 364 days a year, 24 hours a day.