Automation

The field of engineering pertaining to improvements to a process by increasing throughput and manufacturing speed, increasing safety and system reliability, or both. This is most commonly achieved by writing code for dedicated industrial computers known as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) that control input and output devices (IO) and often interface with engineers and operators through a Human Machine Interface (HMI).

A PLC is a ruggedized industrial computer designed to continuously monitor inputs from sensors and make logic-based decisions to control output devices like motors, valves, and lights in harsh environments.

A Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is a user interface or dashboard that connects a person to a machine, system, or device. It visually translates complex data into actionable information, allowing operators to monitor and interact with the industrial process.

SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. It is a high-level software system used to monitor and control entire industrial sites or large networks of geographic infrastructure by collecting real-time operational data.

Input devices (like sensors, switches, and meters) send real-world status data to the controller. Output devices (like actuators, relays, and pumps) receive commands from the controller to perform physical actions in the process.

Reliable safety systems prevent catastrophic industrial accidents, protect personnel from hazardous machine environments, prevent expensive equipment damage, and ensure strict compliance with international manufacturing safety regulations.