To integrate with different customers’ varied and often bespoke EMS/SCADA software applications, GenCell decided to develop an IoT gateway datahub software product to interface with these different systems via generic communication protocols. The GEMS data hub is a Linux based application running on an industrial edge PC.  Its main purpose is to support a broad range of communication protocols and to provide the fundamental connectivity layer for remote customer service, as well as to manage the future development and growth of the GEMS.

If we look at a typical use case from the utilities sector, a typical process that GEMS monitors and manages is Recloser Monitoring and Protection. The software records past recloser trip, alarm and control events and provides protection, control and monitoring functions.  For remote monitoring & analysis of power quality, the GEMS collects data and provides visibility and control of power quality controllers and power quality analyzers; full visibility into and control of the devices enables optimal quality diagnostics and preventative maintenance, reducing downtime and improving efficiency.

In other use cases the GEMS collects data from sensors on different pieces of equipment, sounding real-time alarms in the event of theft attempt, activating battery backup to continue location detection upon disconnection of a unit and alerting of door or panel movement of to prevent break-ins in remote locations.  The platform can be configured for remote meter readings, recording values, alarms and control events to enable the utility to understand trends and make real-time adjustments to optimize performance.

The GEMS software allows telecom and tower operators to effectively collect operational intelligence and supervise multiple unmanned remote base stations from one central location. While the GEMS controls and monitors cellular telecom base station operations, the software platform collects data from sensors connected to fuel cell generators, network equipment, air conditioning units and temperature gauges. The software enables remote supervision of the station, providing alerts and reports for key performance indicators (KPIs) such as humidity, temperature, access control, power management and fire detection.

From the fuel cell generators and any connected devices the software collects relevant data regarding power consumption, grid quality, electrolyte levels, temperatures and other KPIs.  Smart lock sensors can set off alarms and generate alerts via message, mail or pager in case of any site intrusions or damages. Telecom providers can analyze the data, monitoring changes in base stations over time and comparing performance between stations to identify trends, track and improve performance of key metrics such as fuel efficiency and downtime, using the dashboard and report generator to gain insights that allow them to optimize their operations.