Automation
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Automation
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Automation...the big one....] We have a separate Webbook called automation Automation covers any aspect of a production facility that is controlled (sequence) by technology or / and including any machine that works in any part on a process controlled technology like a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) . By the nature of above equipment one will require a monitor of some kind to interface to an operator thus such screens are called HMI (Human Machine Interface) or if such screen also logs and manages data pertaining to the process we refer to it as a SCADA (System Control and Data Acquisitioning) system. Additionally we also have technologies to automatically control all motion on the machine including speed and torque such as for motors, steppers motors and servo systems. Normal squirrel cage AC motors are controlled by VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) aka AC drive aka Frequency converter. Stepper and servo motors are special and one also gets respective drivers (controllers) for each. As a side note: One cannot believe how technology made traditional high tech complicated solutions much more "attainable". In the very recent passed Servo system was dedicated (or maybe relegated) to propriety purpose designed applications like CNC machines. I remember the last one I did was a Fanuc system and it was sold as a kit. No flexibility. Though in the bigger scope of things I am sure it is still done that way and best to do it that way to ensure the integrity of the controls in terms of ensured accuracy / repeatability and even aspects of maintenance and fault finding, But in the mean time just about all major manufacturers NOW have servo systems that can run on its own (controller and motor) and it either has necessary programming features to serve as a solution or it can talk to any PLC which can secondarily command the system. Stepper motors have always stayed in the niche market for NON industrial equipment (engravers, now 3d printers etc) but solutions exist nowadays - if 3rd digit accuracy is not paramount or cost is an inhibiter. See pst on
That's it on this for now.
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