A brief overview of controllers through history and an analysis of factors to consider when deciding which one to use. A Historical Context PLCs were initially introduced in the 1960s and early 1970s. The goal back then was to replace relay switch cabinets and large masses of wires with a more compact and efficient solution. Later … Read more
There are multiple methods for mapping inputs and outputs to an industrial robot. In this article, we cover two of the most popular methods: letting the robot or the PLC control the I/O signals. There is one unavoidable question to ask during your next robotic design, no matter what brand of robot is used: you … Read more
In this article, we take a look at hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators and how they are used in different scenarios. Actuators are key in automating processes as they convert energy into a form of mechanical motion. What types of actuators are available to engineers and when should they be used? What is an Actuator? Generally speaking, an actuator … Read more
PID controllers are an excellent method of using feedback to turn an otherwise open-loop system into one which can follow a carefully prescribed profile, correcting for inconsistencies caused by the equipment, the environment, and even the products in the manufacturing process. In many systems, it is sufficient to send voltage to a motor or valve, … Read more
Learn to discern between textbook and real-life scenarios and use consistent troubleshooting methods to simplify and correct errors in parallel circuits common in industrial control systems. The simplest form of circuit configuration, the series resistance circuit, does not appear in the vast majority of industrial control circuits. This is surprising since it seems to be … Read more
Learn to discern between textbook and real-life scenarios and use consistent troubleshooting methods to simplify and correct errors in industrial series (or control) circuits. For most electrical engineers and students, the most basic form of circuit combination is the series circuit. However, when it comes to industrial control circuits, the definition of a series circuit … Read more
Wiring design systems can become confusing when some switching devices send power to the load automatically while others do not. Often called ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ contacts, these devices are fairly easy to troubleshoot once the differences are understood. In the world of control devices, we can find a nearly endless variety of brands, models, and … Read more
Automation is constantly evolving. How is it affecting the automotive space? Automation is a booming industry in today’s climate. Virtual assistants are a staple in the average home. They turn off our connected lights, adjust the temperature on our smart thermostats, and recognize when we’ve arrived home. Human beings love efficiency, and this desire for … Read more
Learn about the background and use of message queue telemetry transport (MQTT) in the industrial automation industry. The History of Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) MQTT was developed in 1999 by Andy Stanford-Clark with IBM and Arlen Nipper to connect measuring devices on oil pipelines to their SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system via … Read more
Learn about the supervisory control and data acquisition system used to program PLCs and PIDs. See where, how, and why SCADA systems are so popular. Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) is the use of a system of computers, network architecture, data communication over a network, and a graphical user interface (GUI) to carry out … Read more