Industrial Automation

Industrial Automation is the use of control systems, including machines, actuators, sensors, processors, and networks to perform tasks, with the goal of automating production.

The history of industrial automation started with simple conveyor belts pulling parts through an assembly line. Machines performed basic tasks and work that reduced manual labor. Today, industrial automation is a wide range of machines, actuators, sensors, processors, and networks that work to connect an industrial environment. From PLCs, AI, Machine Learning, and IIoT devices, modern industrial automation is focusing on the best way to leverage technology. 

Industrial automation has come a long way from simple conveyor belts. Knowing which type of automation and how it will benefit the company will help you stay on the leading edge of competition. As more data is accessible the better managers will be able to see where the greatest benefits are and what Industry 4.0 technologies will amplify production, quality, revenue streams, and workers.

There are several advantages of industrial automation with manufacturers, OEMs, and industrial operations can leverage to increase operational efficiency.

Monitoring provides data to make sure new automated solutions meet goals. If production data exists in silos it will be difficult to find how to integrate automation solutions. Data from all assets will yield the greatest benefits. To keep data from becoming a liability, find IIoT and monitoring devices that offer built in security. Encryption, gateway protection, and Cloud services are some of the features that act like security guards to keep your assets protected. With security in mind, consider which of the following benefits might provide the greatest value to your application.

1. Improve Worker Safety

2. Increase Productivity

3. Higher Quality

4. Better Decision Making

5. Cost savings

6. Cycle time reduction

7. Data accuracy.