Module 1 Lecture Outline: Introduction to Automation Signal Control

  1. The technology triangle:  How technology has developed over the years.
    1. Mechanical and electrical devices: relays, switches, pneumatic switches, etc
    2. Solid State devices such as OP Amplifiers
    3. Solid State AC switching devices
    4. These first 3 levels used such devices as “push buttons”, magnetic devices and controllers. Use of transistors, and operational amps
    5. Sensors become discrete and digital
    6. Solid state devices
    7. Motor controls become more solid state devices
    8. PLC.s
    9. Data management of all devices and equipment
    10. How information is transmitted
  2. The development of Industrial Control
  3. Hardware and software programs that are used in industry today
  4. Manual Motor and Motor Controls
    1. Simple switches
    2. Simple relays
    3. Logic circuits
  5. Electronically Controlled Machines
    1. Communication:
      1. LANS
      2. WANS
      3. WIRELESS
      4. ETHERNET NETIP
    2. Control Software
      1. Machine control software
      2. Cell and process control software
      3. HMI software
    3. PCLs
    4. Input Devices: sensors and vision devices
      1. Contact devices such as limit switches and manual switches
      2. Non-Contact devices such as Sensors and Vision Devices
      3. Discrete Devices such as proximity devices, photoelectric devices and Hall Effects
      4. Analog devices such as temperature, pressure, level, flow and position
    5. Robotics
  6. Manufacturing Classifications:
    1. Project
      1. One of a kind
      2. Example: building refineries and plants
      3. Equipment moved to the site and it’s a project until product is produced when plant is finished
    2. Job-Shop
      1. Parts are routed between work cells
      2. Not using machines
      3. Low productivity when creating parts
    3. Repetitive
      1. Repeat orders
      2. Large quantities
      3. Manual labor plus machines
      4. Examples: car parts like water pumps, engines, transmissions
    4. Line
      1. Short time delivery
      2. Many options and models
      3. Inventory of sub assembly parts
    5. Continuous
      1. Manufacturing of products is never interrupted  such as making and packaging cereal or producing soft drinks