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Types of Process Manufacturing Equipment

Types of Process Manufacturing Equipment

During process manufacturing, raw materials are mixed together to create a product. This process includes many stages, and thus, copious types of equipment.


Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.


Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids and linear actuators provide similar movements in industrial applications. What are the main similarities and differences, and how are they each used?


Process vs. Discrete Manufacturing

Process vs. Discrete Manufacturing

What are the similarities and differences between process and discrete manufacturing, and how can control engineers best equip themselves for these processes?


Designing and Planning Existing Control System Upgrades

Designing and Planning Existing Control System Upgrades

After understanding how to select the right control system, learn how to design and plan control system retrofits.


Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Different conveyance systems have different ways to calculate speed. Let’s dive into these systems, their speed, and some determining factors.


How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

Let’s take a closer look at retrofitting T-cart control with newer technology, such as using laser distance sensors versus limit switches.


Using DC/DC Converters for Industrial Automation

Using DC/DC Converters for Industrial Automation

Learn the basics of DC/DC converters and their uses in industrial automation.


What Makes a Smart Conveyor System “Smart”?

What Makes a Smart Conveyor System “Smart”?

With the adoption of digital transformation and industry 4.0, conveyors are becoming smarter. This article examines smart conveyor systems and what makes them “smart.”


Conveyor Belt Maintenance Strategies

Conveyor Belt Maintenance Strategies

When the conveyor belt goes down, what do you do? Follow a few of these preventive maintenance strategies to help get production back on track.


SOLIDWORKS vs. AutoCAD for Mechatronics

SOLIDWORKS vs. AutoCAD for Mechatronics

Solidworks or AutoCAD? Which software is the right fit for you and your team? Take a dive into the fundamental components of both programs and the key differences between them.


Potential Applications and Challenges for Blockchain in Industrial Automation

Potential Applications and Challenges for Blockchain in Industrial Automation

Can industrial automation utilize blockchain's security integrated with IoT, ICS, and PAC?


Genetic Algorithm Applications and Limitations

Genetic Algorithm Applications and Limitations

Learn about the applications and future directions of genetic programming.


Introduction to Conveyor Belt Systems

Introduction to Conveyor Belt Systems

Who created the first conveyor system, what are some common types of conveyor systems used in industrial automation, and what are the types of controls involved?


Blockchain for Industrial Automation: Are We There Yet?

Blockchain for Industrial Automation: Are We There Yet?

Learn about how blockchain technology works, why it’s secure, and how to use it in industrial automation.


Introduction to Micro PLCs

Introduction to Micro PLCs

Micro PLCs are quite similar to their larger PLC brethren. What are the major differences, advantages, and disadvantages of micro PLCs?


Genetic Algorithm Examples: Evolving a Sorting Program and Symbolic Regression

Genetic Algorithm Examples: Evolving a Sorting Program and Symbolic Regression

Learn about symbolic regression in genetic programming, one of the breaking fields of research for algorithm development that can be used in the control systems of tomorrow.


Assessing Buzzwords: Industry 5.0

Assessing Buzzwords: Industry 5.0

American history has undergone several industrial revolutions largely focused on mass production. Are we heading into a fifth revolution focused on human-machine interaction?


Error Clusters in LabVIEW

Error Clusters in LabVIEW

Simple errors may corrupt data files, crash LabVIEW, or crash the entire computer system. Implementing error clusters will help prevent these issues. Learn how to set up error clusters for your VI.


Five Common Breaking Points of Industrial-grade Machinery and How to Combat Them

Five Common Breaking Points of Industrial-grade Machinery and How to Combat Them

Broken industrial machinery can cause unexpected downtime, production loss, and even injury. Let's look at some of the most common issues and how to properly address them.