Automation is the use of devices, machines, and control systems to decrease the need for human work. Automated systems are used in numerous industries due to their economic benefits. Understanding of automation, its benefits, and the power sources used in automated systems is important to the success of an automation technician.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the role and importance of automated processes
- List the power sources of some automated processes
- Identify different types of components used in pneumatic/electro-pneumatic installations or circuits
Automated systems are capable of performing a wide variety of tasks and processes. Even though the specific design of each automated system may vary, most share the same basic types of components.
Learning Objectives
- Identify different assembly process steps
- Identify two types of process checks
- Define SCADA
At a basic level, all automated systems work in the same way regardless of their size or task. Understanding of the basic operations and communication performed in an automated system is the first step to understanding how to maintain them.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the components and stations of the SMC MAP 205 system
- Identify the assembly steps performed at each station
- Identify common manipulator types used in a pneumatic system