Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered: Recent Episodes
Automation World
Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered is a podcast series featuring industrial automation subject matter experts answering questions about automation technologies submitted by end users from the discrete and process manufacturing industries.
In this episode, we connect with Aaron Rothmeyer from Sick USA to learn about LiDAR sensors, how they differ from other sensors commonly used in the manufacturing industries, how the 2D and 3D images they produce are used, why they're widely used on autonomous mobile robots and how they can be used in quality control operations.
Automation World connects with Heather Cykoski, senior vice president of industrial and process automation at Schneider Electric, to learn more about what constitutes a smart factory, how the concept is advancing at manufacturing facilities across the globe, its connection to digital transformation initiatives and the biggest challenges manufacturers face when seeking to become a smart factory.
In this episode, we’ll be looking at how Nvidia’s graphics and artificial intelligence technologies are impacting industrial automation on a large scale via collaborations with Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric and Aveva, Siemens, and Teradyne Robotics via its Universal Robots and MiR businesses.
In this episode, we connect with Steve Biegacki of the FDT Group to get a better understanding of the FDT open standard industrial device communication technology, how it's used across industry, the FDT Group's work with OPC Foundation and what end users should know about the FDT technology in their automation devices.
In this episode we look at the growing use of cloud computing in industry and the surprising, but erroneous post from Microsoft that it was planning to discontinue a key component in its cloud platform. Feedback from industrial automation technology suppliers explains why deprecations of cloud applications by the cloud platform providers will likely not impact the cloud applications you use from them.
In this episode, we connect with Jim Toman of system integrator Grantek to explain the overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) formula, how to calculate it for a typical manufacturing line, how to apply the results to improve production operations, and why the long-standing OEE metric continues to be relevant in the age of new and advancing industrial optimization technologies.
Automation World Editor in Chief David Greenfield was recently invited to appear on Southern California Public Radio's LAist AirTalk program to discuss the realities around the impact of increasing automation use—particularly robots—on industry's workforce. Also featured in this discussion is Ben Armstrong, executive director of MIT’s Industrial Performance Center.
In this episode we connect with Ken Crawford of Weidmüller USA about the us elf open system tech in automation and more specifically about Weidmüller's use of open systems in its new u-OS technologies and how it can benefit OEM and end-user operations.
In this episode, we look at some of the most common machine safety devices, such as light curtains, laser scanners, safety controllers and interlock switches and share insights from industry experts on how to determine the right safety device or system for your application.
With system integrator and technology supplier insights, we take a look at the rise of industrial data ops—how it differs from historical data storage and trending activities and how it can be used to predict future trends to optimize supply chains and derive strategic business insights.
In this episode, we connect with Steven Ward from Emerson to learn about IoT platforms, how they're applied across different industries, what operations technology professionals need to be aware of during IoT platform assessments and lessons to be learned from industries that have a high level of IoT platform adoption.
In this episode, we connect with Ira Moskowitz, CEO of the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Institute, to learn about its work supporting the use of robotics and AI in the manufacturing industries and how it helps manufacturers deploy and expand robotic applications.
An update on two high-profile integrations of Microsoft's artificial intelligence with operations technology software from Aveva and Siemens.
In this podcast featuring Anthony Leo of Norgren, we discuss how multi-axis electric motion control differs from general electric and pneumatic motion control, its suitability for hazardous environments, as well as its speed, accuracy and distance characteristics.
Collaborative robots are known for their ability to operate safely near humans, but their operation should be assessed just like any other piece of automated industrial equipment. Listen to this discussion with Devin Murray of Schmersal USA's technical engineering services division—tec.nicum—to learn about the specific safety standards related to cobots, safety hazards that are common or overlooked with cobots and how to ensure safe cobot operations in your facility.
Hear about some of the biggest automation news to come out of Pack Expo 2023 in Las Vegas, including new industrial cameras, lighting from Beckhoff, the integration of multiple automation technologies in Emerson's Floor to Cloud system and Weidmüller's new u-OS open operating system for device maintenance and application integration.
Find out how analytics technologies, such as Model Predictive Control (MPC), are impacting production operations, not just in the continuous processing industries, but discrete manufacturing as well. In this discussion with Bruce Slusser with system integrator Avanceon, we discuss how MPC can be integrated into digital transformation initiatives, the impact of artificial intelligence on MPC and the key elements manufacturers need to have in place to use effectively use MPC.
Find out the difference between traditional and high-performance HMI screen styles, as well as which type manufacturers tend to use most and how difficult it is to switch from one version to another in this episode featuring Travis Cox of Inductive Automation.
Artificial intelligence seems to be everywhere these days, but it’s been a part of machine vision technology for years now. Given those years of use and the growth of new capabilities in AI, what’s the outlook for AI machine vision use in manufacturing. In this podcast discussion with Kevin McCabe of IDS Imaging Development Systems, we look at how AI enables vision system use in quality control, the connection between machine vision AI and large language models such as ChatGPT, and how to begin exploring use of AI-powered machine vision in your operations.
In this episode we connect with Kristen Ballistrea of B&R Industrial Automation to learn about B&R's Acopos 6D levitating transport system. This transportation system uses levitating shuttles to move materials and parts between various production systems for applications ranging from assembly to packaging.
In this discussion with Nazario Biala of Harting, we address how industry’s digital transformation is impacting the design of automation devices and connector functionalities required to support Industrial Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
In this episode, we connect with Brian Burke of Bishop-Wisecarver to learn why guide wheels are often used as a component of linear motion systems in automated machinery and why they're considered critical to the dependability of such systems, especially in harsh environments.
In this episode, we connect with Stephen Lacey of Belden to learn about the high costs of reactive maintenance and how moving to more proactive—and even predictive—maintenance can be achieved without major investments and executed in small, easily incorporated steps.
In this episode we connect with Sam Russem of system integrator Grantek to learn how MES software tracks key production metrics and how manufacturers should go about assessing their operations to figure out which metrics to track with MES software.
Two of the biggest trends in automation over the past few years have been the trend away from closed, proprietary systems and toward open systems, and increased reliance on automation to achieve sustainability goals. In this episode, we connect with Michael Martinez of Schneider Electric to better understand the connections between the use of open industrial automation software and sustainability.
In this episode, we connect with Michael Guelker of Festo to learn about the different types of robot grippers—pneumatic, electric, vacuum, soft adaptive, and magnetic—and how to select them based on capabilities and robot/automation supplier relationships.
In this episode, we connect with Jacob Becker, system solution architect at system integrator Tri Tech Automation, to answer an Automation World reader question about how soft starters and VFDs compare. We explore their differences and similarities regarding motor speed control, cost, performance parameters and tuning capabilities, and for which applications each technology make the most sense.
In this episode, we connect with Sean Gregerson, vice president of asset management at Aveva, to learn about: Information Digital Twins; data democratization and what it means for industrial use of operations data; and why the gap between collected data and analyzed data remains so large at most companies.
In this episode, we connect with Ross Turbiville, senior director of global industry sales of flow control products at Emerson Automation Solutions, to learn about the different types of commonly available automated valves, valve sizing and performance issues, how piping and valve materials can impact valve choice, and deciding among electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic valve actuators.
In this episode we connect with Chris Radebaugh of Emerson to learn how DeltaV Simulation Cloud is used to effectively train operators whenever engineering changes are made to production systems, what industries are using it, and how cloud-based engineering and simulation software stacks up to on-premises software.
In this episode, we diverge a bit from our typical course of answering listener questions about automation technologies to explore the surge in interest around investing in industrial automation. With our guest Jim Carlisle, managing director at Thomas H. Lee, a Boston-based private equity firm, we look at why investment firms are increasingly focused on automation and the factors they see impacting this market.
Learn the details of machine risk assessments, what types of equipment require them, who's responsible for them, when to begin the process, and how to comply with machine risk assessment regulations in this episode featuring Devin Murray, tec.nicum services manager at Schmersal USA.
In this episode, we connect with Doug Yerger of system integrator Grantek to discuss the differences among and preferences for Instruction List, Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, and Sequential Function Chart PLC programming languages, as well as C and C+.
In this episode we connect with Dan Riley of system integrator firm Interstates to learn how digital twins are used to represent specific pieces of equipment as well as entire plant floor operations. We also discuss the specific value provided by a digital twin to improve production operations and what industry segments are using this technology most.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast, we connect with Bryan Little of Avanceon to answer a reader question about the use of remote I/O in the main electrical enclosure. In our discussion, we clarify the differences among remote I/O, distributed I/O, and local I/O; why using remote I/O in the main control enclosure doesn't go against the idea of remote I/O; and how wireless remote I/O can be beneficial depending on your application of it.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast, we connect with Ben Manlongat of system integrator Outbound Technologies to learn about the risks of remote access and read-only SCADA data and how to secure this critical automation system component.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Nate Kay of industrial control system integrator Martin CSI to learn about the key differences between programmable logic controllers, programmable automation controllers, and industrial PCs. He also explains how to choose from among these options based on your control application.
In this episode of the Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Luke Stephenson of Enterprise Automation to understand the best methods for connecting older devices and machines for data analysis.
In this episode, we connect with Jeff Johnson, U.S. mechatronics product manager at Beckhoff, to learn more about how Beckhoff's XPlanar material handling system uses levitating tiles to move parts and products for assembly and/or packaging applications.
In this episode, we connect with Sam Russem of system integration firm Grantek to better understand Meantime to Repair (MTTR) and Meantime Before/Between Failure (MTBF). We explore how these metrics are applied and calculated and how they can benefit manufacturing operations.
In this episode, we connect with James Destro of ServiceNow and Carey Blunt of Fujitsu to explore how operations technology (OT) devices can be discovered, secured, and managed with the same kinds of tools used by IT, with an eye toward downtime avoidance and change management for asset management and cybersecurity.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Duane Grob of system integration firm Avanceon to learn about the combined use of fieldbus and Ethernet industrial networking technologies, even as Ethernet increasingly becomes the plant floor network of choice.
Modern industrial workforce training requires the ability to assess workers’ skills and deliver the training needed in bite-sized, memorable steps to ensure retention. Training also often requires the use of simulation to adequately prepare industrial workers and be delivered in a hands-free format so the employee can do their job as they’re being guided to complete various tasks. Find out how these new training technologies are being deployed to improve operations and ensure worker safety in this conversation with Vincent Higgins of Honeywell Process Solutions.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Bart Winters of Honeywell Process Solutions to learn about shifting your industrial control systems from a reactive to a proactive maintenance strategy.
In this episode, we connect with Sam Russem, director of the smart manufacturing practice at Grantek (a system integration company), to answer a reader's question about whether it's possible to replace supervisory control and data acquisition systems with manufacturing execution systems technology? Sam address the overlaps and differences between the two technologies and how their functions can be combined, with an example of a manufacturer that has already done it.
In this episode, we connect with James Destro of ServiceNow to learn how digital workflow software can provide visibility into plant floor equipment and direct operations on a day-to-day basis to connect people, functions, and systems.
In this episode we discuss how to successfully plan for and implement edge computing technologies at both OEM and manufacturing/processing facilities. Featured in this podcast are Stratus Technologies' Aric Prost, senior director of OEM and VAR Programs, and John Vicente, chief technology officer.
In this episode, we connect with Brent Kooiman, senior project engineer and design manager at Interstates, to learn about the differences between general purpose and inverter duty motors and the types of industrial applications each are best suited for.
Get a better understanding of how manufacturers are actually using cloud computing today and how it can be leveraged for optimal application by smaller manufacturing organizations in this discussion with Brian Fenn, COO of system integration company Avanceon.
In this episode, we connect with Daymon Thompson, automation product manager for Beckhoff USA, to learn more about the trends around combining previously separate automation functions into one system for ease of access and use. We explore this topic broadly and focus specifically on the integration of vision and machine control.
In this episode, we connect with Justin Kolbe of Henkel to learn how economic and technology factors are affecting the development and use of industrial automation technologies today.
In this episode, we connect with Bill Pollock, CEO of Optimation (a system integration company), to explore how industrial companies are moving forward with their digital transformations. We discuss how to assess current operations, avoid common mistakes, and apply metrics to measure the level of your plan's success.
In this episode of the “Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered” podcast series, we connect with McKenzie Reed of Harting to learn about one of the more important recent advances in industrial communications technology—Single Pair Ethernet (SPE). During our discussion with Reed, he explains the difference between SPE and standard industrial Ethernet, SPE’s speed and distance capabilities, SPE’s ability to deliver power and data, the move to standardize SPE and how it works with industrial Ethernet protocols, the benefits SPE brings to end users, and the availability of SPE products.
In this episode, we connect with Matt Ruth, president of Avanceon (a system integration and engineering services company) to learn about the connections between supply chain operations and automation technologies, ranging from analytics and MES to HMI and SCADA software.
In this episode, we connect with Brandon Bohle of Interstates Control Systems to discuss industrial control system cybersecurity requirements in light of the increasing use of remote connections in response to COVID-19 as well as general cybersecurity best practices moving forward.
In this episode, we connect with Joe Campbell of Universal Robots to learn how manufacturers are deploying collaborative robots to help with social distancing, line reconfiguration, and production flexibility.
In this episode, we connect with Dan Malyszko of Malisko Engineering to get insights from the front lines of manufacturing about how industry is responding to the production challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Sam Russem of system integration company Grantek to get a better understanding of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) metrics, how it's applied, and its impact on the digital transformation of industry.
In this episode, we connect with Fernando Callejon and Felix Klebe of Omron to explore vision system selection factors, how to justify vision system investments, the types of industrial applications they're most suited for, and how the technology can be used to inspect liquids and solids on the production line.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with David Hoysan of Phoenix Contact to understand how manufacturing and processing companies should address the safety and security of mobile devices in their facilities.
In this episode, we connect with Matt Boese of Columbus Global to better understand how to assess analytics software and how manufacturers and processors can effectively apply analytics for a fast return on investment.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Allan Hottovy of Telemecanique Sensors to learn how to evaluate sensor selection for Industrial Internet of Things/Industry 4.0 applications.
In this episode, we connect with Todd Mason-Darnell and Pamela Horbacovsky of Omron Automation to understand what the term "functional machine safety" means and how it applies to end users and OEMs when assessing new and legacy equipment.
In this episode, we connect with Josh Eastburn and Benson Hougland of Opto 22 to learn more about connecting edge computing technology with legacy automation technologies in industrial environments.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast, we connect with Steve Sullivan of Rittal to learn about the best methods for keeping control cabinets cool in high temperature environments.
In this episode, we connect with Shishir Rege of Balluff to learn about the IO-Link device communication technology and whether or not it is difficult to integrate into existing operations.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Eric Roggeman and Greg Dieck of Omron Industrial Automation to find out if servo motor/drive/controller combinations sourced from one vendor are the best option or if mixing and matching components is preferred.
Enclosures protect the critical automation devices that keep your operations up and running. To get a better understanding about the role of enclosures in production facilities, and the distinction between certified and standard enclosures, we connect with Josiah Haas of Bud Industries, a manufacturer and supplier of electronic enclosures.
In this episode, Jeff Johnson, Mechatronics Product Manager at Beckhoff, explains some the biggest factors impacting how OEMs are designing their machines to incorporate linear transport systems today and how Beckhoff is adapting in response.
In this episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast series, we connect with Dan Schaffer of Phoenix Contact to learn about the best practices surrounding industrial network upgrades. Podcast sponsored by Allied Electronics & Automation.
In this fourth episode of the "Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered" Podcast series, we connect with Benson Hougland and Terry Orchard of Opto 22 to find out if open source software is suitable for supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) applications.
In this third episode of the “Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered” podcast series, we connect with Justin Shade of Phoenix Contact to explore industrial wireless technologies and their OT/IT collaboration requirements, speed capabilities, and security concerns. This podcast is sponsored by Allied Electronics and Automation.
In this podcast, Automation World connects with Michael Bowne, executive director of PI North America, to explain industrial network topologies. In our discussion, we address how these topologies apply to fieldbus, Ethernet and wireless networks; how to determine best topology type for an existing application; and how to select the best topology type for future growth.
The “Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered” podcast series launches with this two-part podcast exploring the differences between smart and traditional instruments and how those factors impact industrial cybersecurity.
The “Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered” podcast series launches with this two-part podcast exploring the differences between smart and traditional instruments and how those factors impact industrial cybersecurity.