Andrews Cooper (AC)'s Automation Roadmap is a path of strategic planning for successful automation development, seamless technology integration, and future-proofing for greater manufacturing performance and maximum ROI.

In this series, we highlight some of the key analyses and considerations that drive successful engineering design and implementation across a variety of automation solutions.

In the previous blog, Part 3— Enhancing Machine Vision, we shared how to improve decisions about machine vision technology starting in the early stages of a project’s development. In this next blog, we will look at how to integrate machine controls within the automation roadmap.

Effective integration of machine control systems into an automation roadmap is critical for achieving seamless and efficient manufacturing operations. By carefully planning and selecting the right control platforms and architectures, manufacturing can operate at peak performance and scale to meet future demand.

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Automation Controls Roadmapping

Define an Adaptable Machine Controls Platform

The automation roadmap includes requirements that point to the best controls platform, whether a robust enterprise solution or a scalable open-source platform, through analysis such as:

• Define Objectives: Establish clear operational goals for machine controls, ensuring an adaptable system that aligns with overall manufacturing and business objectives.
• Evaluate Current Systems: Conduct a thorough analysis of existing manufacturing machine control systems to pinpoint communication requirements and performance improvements.
• Identify & Mitigate Risks: Identify potential integration or scalability challenges early, such as supply chain hardware limitations, and mitigate risks.

Develop a Robust Platform & Architecture

From clear requirements defined in the roadmap, source and develop a robust controls system, including the following:

• Select Controls Platform: Source the controls system, whether PLC-based, PC-based, or embedded, to match the specific needs of the manufacturing process and future scalability.
• Deliver Robust Architecture: Deploy AC cross-platform base code to jumpstart the design and programming of a robust controls architecture.
• Plan for Integration: Ensure a detailed deployment plan to integrate seamlessly with existing systems and processes.

Implement & Maintain Optimal Performance

The roadmap details the implementation plan and identifies rigorous testing to ensure optimal performance, through these steps:

• Implement Controls System: Deploy the new controls system into the automation system and ensure that all components work together seamlessly and meet operational requirements. 
• Validate Performance: Deliver comprehensive validation of the integrated control system, including stress testing and analysis to ensure smooth performance.
• Plan for Service & Support: Access to ongoing support for regular assessments and system upgrades.

EXPLORE SCALABLE CONTROLS SOLUTIONS

Learn more about derisking the controls hardware supply chain from AC Automation Program Director, Harry Richards.

AC YouTube | CODESYS for Hardware Independence

Developing a Machine Controls Roadmap with AC

In summary, AC prioritizes early engagement to understand your automation needs, operational goals, and manufacturing processes. Working closely with you throughout the development process enables us to develop a comprehensive and well-planned roadmap, leading to rapid, adaptive, and successful automation.

From a comprehensive analysis of existing machine control systems, we identify inefficiencies and areas for enhancement. 

By focusing on flexible sourcing of control hardware, we derisk the supply chain to minimize delays and stay on track.

We leverage our expertise with diverse control systems to select technologies that meet the right performance and scalability requirements. 

By carefully planning and executing your automation roadmap, we ensure seamless integration of your machine controls system and provide access to support for future scaling.

Explore these automation controls solutions

Here are some related posts on developing control systems for manufacturing automation: