Automation & Control

This image shows a heavy automation robot arm in a smart factory.

All Control and Visualisation Tasks in Industrial Settings

The term automation & control covers all control and visualisation tasks in industrial settings. In the case of an injection moulding machine, for instance, it is possible to collect all movement data of the closing and injection units. In addition, one can monitor data such as oil temperature and pressure. These data are then shown to the machine operator on a visualisation display.

In essence, this involves the four steps of data collection, data preparation, data processing, and data presentation.

Four Steps of Automation & Control

Data Collection

The first step of data collection takes place on so-called input cards. These cards can be designed as analogue, digital, or mixed signal cards. They comprise a connector system and a varistor to divert high-power surge pulses. The input card features an analogue front end responsible for filtering signals, that is, for filtering surge, burst, and conducted HF interference. In addition, it is used to reduce the input voltage (e.g. from 220VDC to 3.3VDC). Mini-MELF or anti-surge resistors from CODICO's wide portfolio are very well-suited for this purpose.

Data Preparation

Data preparation takes place in a small microcontroller located on the input module. The data are prepared here so that they can be inserted in a log and exchanged between machines. CODICO can resort to a high-quality product portfolio of modules which can be used for the wireless transmission of data.

Data Processing

The processing of the data takes place in the central processing unit (CPU). The programmer's algorithm is executed inside this CPU.

Data Presentation

The final step of presenting the data is achieved through a suitable display. Depending on the display's architecture, the data are projected through an HDMI cable or a VNC player. In some cases, this visualisation device also features a USB port for updates. The connections must be protected with ESD protection diodes to prevent device crashes or damage to the ports.