IntermediateTopic 47 of 102Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems
Industrial automation
Machines and control systems perform tasks with minimal human input.
In depth
Automation uses control systems and machines to perform tasks with minimal human input: fixed (hard), programmable and flexible automation. Elements: sensors, controllers (PLC), actuators, HMI, safety. Benefits: productivity, quality, safety; costs: capital, skills, flexibility limits. Industry 4.0 adds connectivity and data analytics.
Key points
- Levels of automation
- ROI analysis
- Digital manufacturing
ExampleA packaging line automatically fills, caps, labels and palletises products.
What is Industrial automation?
Machines and control systems perform tasks with minimal human input.
Why is it important to understand industrial automation?
Industrial automation performs repeated tasks consistently and safely, which raises productivity and reduces human exposure to hazards.
What are the main elements of an automated system?
Sensors to detect the state, controllers to decide, actuators to act, and a network to link them together.
What are the limits of automation?
Flexibility can be low, high upfront costs apply, and the system needs skilled maintenance and careful safety design.
How is Industrial automation used in practice?
Typical applications include automating the filling and capping of bottles on a line, using robots to weld car body panels and controlling a warehouse conveyor system with sensors and PLCs.
What should I learn before Industrial automation?
Study "Industrial safety" first (topic 46 of 102 in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Industrial automation?
Levels of automation. ROI analysis. Digital manufacturing.
Can you give an example of Industrial automation?
A packaging line automatically fills, caps, labels and palletises products.
What comes after Industrial automation?
The next topic is "Pneumatics", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is Industrial automation?
It is classed as Intermediate in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems (topic 47 of 102). It is an intermediate topic. Work through the beginner topics in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems first.