Used in cases where the manufacturing process that this system will carry out is long and specific. With these systems it is very difficult to facilitate modifications to the product design.

It is used when it is necessary to reprogram the system after a period of time. Mostly used in the manufacturing of batches with different specifications and characteristics.

Improved version of programmable automation. The change of patterns occurs in a simple and fast way and mixtures of different products can be manufactured without wasting much time.

Set of totally independent machines, processes and data that work synchronously under a single control system. It is the maximum that an industrial automation process aspires to.

Through one of these systems we will be able to achieve the objectives of industrial automation.

Prehistory

The first simple machines replaced one form of effort with another form that could be handled by humans, such as lifting a heavy object with a pulley system or a lever. Later machines were able to replace human or animal energy with natural forms of renewable energy, such as wind, tides, or a flow of water.

Still later, some forms of automation were controlled by clockworks or similar devices using some forms of artificial power sources—some spring, a channeled flow of water or steam to produce simple, repetitive actions, such as moving figures, creating music, or playing games. These first devices characterized human figures, were known as automata and possibly date back to the year 300 BC. c.

19th century

In 1801, the patent for an automatic loom using punched cards was given to Joseph Marie Jacquard, who revolutionized the textile industry.

The most visible part of automation today may be industrial robotics. Some advantages are repeatability, tighter quality control, greater efficiency, integration with business systems, increased productivity, and reduction of human work. Some disadvantages are large capital requirements, severe decrease in flexibility, and an increase in dependence on maintenance and repair. For example, Japan has had to retire many of its industrial robots when they found that they were unable to adapt to dramatic changes in production requirements, unable to justify their high initial costs.

20th century

Already in the century, a differentiation began to develop between the first industrial revolution, whose core was focused on mechanization (steam engine, power loom) and began at the end of the century, and what was recently called the Second Industrial Revolution (in the second half of the century) which was centered around the automation of industry.[2]​.

Automation had existed for many years on a small scale, and by mid-century it was still using simple mechanisms to automate simple manufacturing tasks. The concept only became truly practical with the addition (and evolution) of digital computers, whose flexibility allowed any kind of task to be handled. Digital computers with the required combination of speed, computing power, price, and size to be applied in industry began to appear in the 1960s. Before that time, industrial computers were exclusively analog computers and hybrid computers. Since then digital computers took control of most simple, repetitive, semi-skilled and specialized tasks, with some notable exceptions in food production and inspection. As a famous anonymous saying goes, "for many highly changing tasks, it is difficult to replace human beings, who are easily retrained within a wide range of tasks, moreover, they are produced cheaply by untrained personnel."

There are many jobs that do not present the immediate risk of automation. No device that has been invented can compete, in precision and certainty in many tasks, against the human eye; nor against the human ear. Any person can identify and distinguish a greater number of essences than any automatic device. The skills for human pattern recognition, language recognition, and language production are beyond any expectations of automation engineers.

Industrial electricity

Industrial electricity refers to the generation, distribution and use of electrical energy in industrial and commercial environments. It involves a series of processes, equipment and systems designed to meet the electrical energy needs of industrial facilities, manufacturing plants, factories, warehouses and other similar environments. This energy is used to power machinery, lighting equipment, air conditioning systems, control and automation systems, among others.

Industrial electricity can be low, medium or high voltage, depending on the specific requirements of the facility and power demands. Industrial electrical systems are typically designed to be robust and reliable, as power outages can have a significant impact on the productivity and efficiency of industrial operations.

Sources:.

Industrial pneumatics

Industrial pneumatics is a branch of engineering that focuses on the use and control of compressed air for the automation of industrial processes. It uses air pressure to create movement and control various mechanisms and systems in industrial environments. Industrial pneumatics are especially useful in situations where linear or rotary force and motion are required.

In industrial pneumatics, components such as air compressors are used to generate compressed air, pneumatic cylinders to create linear motion, pneumatic motors and actuators to generate rotary motion, pneumatic valves to control air flow, and other elements such as filters and regulators to ensure efficient operation of the system.

Pneumatic systems are known for their simplicity, speed and responsiveness compared to other automation systems. They are widely used in the manufacturing industry and in various applications such as material handling, production line automation, machinery control, industrial robotics and more.

It is important to note that pneumatics is related to the use of compressed air, while hydraulics involves the use of liquids, usually oil, to achieve control and automation in industrial systems.

Sources:.

Industrial hydraulics

Industrial oleohydraulics, also known as industrial hydraulics, is a branch of engineering that deals with the use and control of fluids, usually oils, to transmit energy and perform work in industrial systems and machinery. Unlike pneumatics, which uses compressed air, oleohydraulics is based on the incompressibility of liquids to transmit force and movement efficiently.

In industrial oleohydraulics, components such as hydraulic pumps are used to generate liquid flow, hydraulic cylinders to create linear motion, hydraulic motors to generate rotary motion, hydraulic valves to control the flow and direction of fluid, and other elements such as accumulators and filters to optimize system operation.

The main advantage of oleohydraulics is its ability to handle heavy loads and transmit force over considerable distances with precision and control. It is widely used in a variety of industrial applications, such as presses, cranes, construction machines, agricultural machinery, lifting systems and many other areas where high power and precise control are required.

As in pneumatics, it is important to highlight that oleohydraulics is based on the transmission of energy through fluids, but in this case oil or other hydraulic fluids are used instead of compressed air.

Sources:.

Programmable controllers

Programmable controllers, also known as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), are electronic devices used in industrial automation to control and monitor processes and systems in a wide range of applications. These devices are essential for controlling and automating machines and processes in the manufacturing industry, building automation, food and beverage industry, chemical industry, automotive industry and many others.

A programmable controller consists of electronic components, such as a central processing unit, digital and analog inputs and outputs, memory, and a communication system. The programming of the PLC is carried out using programming software, where the instructions and logic that the controller must follow to carry out various tasks are defined.

The main functions of programmable controllers include:

1. Process control: PLCs can monitor and control industrial process sequences, such as product manufacturing, assembly line automation, and machinery control.

2. Logic and sequencing: Programmable controllers can implement Boolean logic to make decisions based on specific inputs and conditions, allowing the sequential execution of actions.

3. Motion Control: They can control motion systems, such as motors and actuators, to achieve precise movements in machines and equipment.

4. Communication: PLCs can interact with other devices and systems through communication protocols, allowing the integration of systems into a production line or larger industrial facility.

5. Supervision and monitoring: Many PLCs allow real-time monitoring and data collection for performance analysis and informed decision making.

Programming a PLC is carried out using specific programming languages, such as relay languages, ladder languages ​​or more advanced programming languages ​​such as Ladder Logic, Instruction List and others.

In summary, programmable controllers are essential elements in industrial automation, allowing the creation of flexible and adaptable control systems that improve efficiency, precision and safety in a variety of industrial processes and applications.

Sources:.

Industrial communications

Industrial communications refers to the systems and technologies used to transmit information and data between devices, equipment and systems in industrial environments. These communications are essential for efficient process control and automation in various industrial fields, such as manufacturing, energy, production, logistics, and more.

In the context of industrial communications, devices can include sensors, actuators, controllers, PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, HMI (Human-Machine Operator Interfaces), industrial robots, process control systems, among others. The ability of these devices to communicate with each other and with centralized monitoring and control systems is essential to optimize production, improve efficiency and ensure safety in industrial operations.

Some key concepts in industrial communications include:.

1. Communication protocols: These are sets of rules and standards that define how devices communicate and transmit data between each other. Examples of industrial protocols are Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, CAN (Control Area Network), among others.

2. Industrial networks: These are communication infrastructures that connect devices and systems within an industrial facility. These networks can be wired or wireless and are designed to offer speeds and data transmission capacities suitable for industrial needs.

3. Network topologies: Refers to the physical and logical structure of the network, such as bus, star, ring, mesh, etc., which determines how devices connect and communicate with each other.

4. SCADA and HMI systems: These systems allow the supervision and control of industrial processes. Operators can monitor the status of devices and processes in real time and make informed decisions based on the data provided by these systems.

5. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): The interconnection of devices and systems in industry via the Internet enables the collection, analysis and sharing of data to improve process efficiency and performance.

In summary, industrial communications are essential to achieving automation, efficiency and control in industrial environments. They allow the transfer of critical data that helps in decision making, process optimization and overall productivity improvement in various industries.

Sources:.

industrial robotics

Industrial robotics refers to the field of engineering and automation that deals with the design, construction, programming, and operation of robots in industrial and manufacturing environments. Industrial robots are programmable machines that can carry out repetitive, precise and dangerous tasks on production lines, warehouses and other industrial environments.

Industrial robots are designed to perform a variety of tasks, such as welding, assembly, material handling, packaging, painting, quality inspection, and many other activities that require strength, precision, and speed. These robots are equipped with sensors, actuators and control systems that allow them to interact with their environment and execute specific tasks according to programming instructions.

Key features and components of industrial robotics include:

1. **Manipulators and robotic arms**: These are the mechanical parts that allow the robot to move and perform tasks. They can have multiple joints and degrees of freedom to achieve complex movements.

2. **Sensors**: Industrial robots can be equipped with sensors such as cameras, proximity sensors, force sensors, and more. These sensors allow the robot to detect and adapt to its environment and the objects with which it interacts.

3. **Actuators**: These are the components that allow the robot to execute movements and actions. These may include electric motors, servomotors, and other actuation mechanisms.

4. **Controllers**: Industrial robots are controlled by electronic systems and specialized software. Controllers allow you to program the robot's behavior and manage its movements and actions.

5. **Programming**: Programming industrial robots involves defining the sequences of movements and actions that the robot must perform to carry out a specific task. This can be done through specific programming languages ​​or through graphical interfaces.

6. **Safety**: Safety is a key consideration in industrial robotics. Robots are often equipped with safety systems such as emergency stops, collision sensors and restricted work zones to ensure the safety of operators and other workers.

Industrial robotics has revolutionized the manufacturing industry by improving efficiency, quality and consistency in production. Robots allow repetitive tasks to be performed more quickly and accurately, which in turn frees up human workers for more creative and strategic tasks.

Sources:.

There is a fundamental and very current concept around industrial automation and it is that of DCS (distributed control systems"). A distributed control system is made up of several levels of automation that range from a minimum of 3 to 5. They are called: field level (where the sensors and actuators are located), control level (where the PLCs or Automation Stations are located), supervision level (where the Operation Stations and Process Servers are located), MES level (where PCs with specialized software for the distribution of all plant information as well as the generation of reports) and the ERP level (where there are also PCs with specialized software for the planning and administration of the production of the entire industry or company).

Specialized computers and input and output cards, both analog and digital, are used to read field inputs through sensors and to generate, through their program, outputs to the field through actuators. This leads to control precise actions that allow close control of any industrial process. (It was feared that these devices were vulnerable to the Y2K bug, with catastrophic consequences, since they are so common within the industrial world.)

Human-machine interfaces (HMI) or human-computer interfaces (CHI) are often used to communicate with PLCs and other computers, for tasks such as entering and monitoring temperatures or pressures for automatic controls or response to alarm messages. The service personnel who monitor and control these interfaces are known as station engineers and the personnel who operate directly on the HMI or SCADA (Control and Data Acquisition System) are known as operation personnel.

Another form of automation that involves computers is automation testing, where computers control automated test equipment that is programmed to simulate humans manually testing an application. This is usually accompanied by automated tools to generate special instructions (written as computer programs) that direct the automated equipment under test in the exact direction to complete the tests.

A study by two Ball State University professors found that between 2000 and 2010, about 87 percent of job losses in North American manufacturing were due to increased factory efficiency from automation and better technology. Only 13% of job losses were due to trade, according to CNN.[3]​.

With the acceleration in the adoption of artificial intelligence technology, it is expected that more people will be displaced by automation in the near future; which has generated an intense public policy discussion in 2017. Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, has defended the idea that robots should pay taxes to compensate for technological unemployment. On the other hand, Lawrence Summers, an American economist, responded to Bill Gates by saying that collecting taxes from an activity that generates wealth would not be logical, and what would have to be done to face the loss of jobs is to invest resources in education and retraining.[4]​.

Contenido

La automatización de procesos tiene diversos campos de aplicación e involucra a múltiples ramas de la ingeniería. Gracias al avance de nuevas tecnologías emergentes en el contexto de la Industria 4.0 como son Internet de la Cosas (IoT / IIoT), machine learning, inteligencia artificial, big data, sistemas computacionales en la nube, realidad virtual y aumentada, blockchain, robótica, conectividad 5G, ciberseguridad, entre otros, se hace posible la apertura de nuevos campos de aplicación, donde se busca optimizar los procesos productivos, fortalecer la cadena de valor, aumentar la eficiencia operacional y mejorar la productividad de las empresas.[5]​ Así tenemos por ejemplo:.

Automated mining

Automated mining involves the elimination of human labor from the mining process.[6]​ The mining industry is transitioning towards automation. Automated mining is a general term that refers to two types of technology. The first type refers to the automation of processes and software; The second type deals with applying robotic technology to mining vehicles and equipment.

Automation of business processes

Business process automation[7]​ is the industrial automation of complicated business processes[8]​ through technology enablement. A business can be optimized to make it simpler,[9]​ achieve digital transformation, increase service quality, improve the services delivered or contain costs. Business process automation can achieve application integration, workforce restructuring, and use application software throughout the organization. Business process automation can be implemented in several areas including marketing,[10]​ sales[11]​ and workflow.[12]​.

Platooning

Platooning is the construction of an automated highway.[13]​ Platooning reduces the distance between vehicles using electronic couplings, and also, possibly mechanical devices. This mechanism allows the linked vehicles to accelerate or brake synchronously, in such a way that the reaction distance necessary for humans is eliminated, allowing a greater number of vehicles to be inserted on the roads. Putting this transportation system into circulation requires the acquisition of new vehicles or the modification of current ones so that platooning can be implemented in them. "Intelligent vehicles") will allow, due to their on-board artificial intelligence systems, to be included or left in the platoons.

The design, implementation and commissioning of machines and plants are specifically oriented for automation.[14]​ The methods and solutions are the result of a generalized model of observation of real physical systems. The methods of automation technology are, in part, adapted to certain specific processes.

Most modern general process automation methods use theoretical or experimental models of processes in an analytical form. On the basis of these models, methods for the design and implementation of various automation functions can be scientifically substantiated. These include methods such as:

Science-based automation systems have given rise to regulation and control models (self-adjusting or continuously adaptive) that self-monitor and provide diagnostic functions.

Process-oriented methods are used to develop mechatronic devices and systems. These include, for example, computer-aided modeling, simulation and digital control of robots, machine tools, internal combustion engines, motor vehicles, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical drives, where practically tested diagnostic methods are developed. The automation solution must use existing infrastructure and adapt to existing processes.[15]​ Of particular importance are the development and testing of "computational intelligence" methods, that is, a combination of fuzzy logic, neural networks and evolutionary optimization algorithms.

Automation and rationalization go hand in hand. In production, manual labor decreases, productivity increases and labor costs decrease. Automation for any economic branch is an important cause of the decrease in the volume of work as a consequence of the increase in productivity. Automation also creates new jobs. There are new machines and systems with a higher degree of automation and they tend to have a larger market. Automated plants and machines have a short production cycle and can be easily updated and adapted to new products.

The successes and importance of key industries are made possible by constant improvements in automation.

Machines reduce the proportion of monotonous work for humans.

Also automation is not just limited to industrial applications, for example; in the field of automatic payment services in banks, or the self-generated electricity bill. Furthermore, many activities in the home (for example, washing clothes with a washing machine) or in everyday life (adjusting the brake pressure of a motor vehicle with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and/or ESP&action=edit&redlink=1 "Electronic stability control (automotive) (not yet drafted)")) have emerged as a result of the proliferation of automation processes.

After reviewing the history and definition of industrial automation, we will review the types of systems through which to achieve industrial automation:

Used in cases where the manufacturing process that this system will carry out is long and specific. With these systems it is very difficult to facilitate modifications to the product design.

It is used when it is necessary to reprogram the system after a period of time. Mostly used in the manufacturing of batches with different specifications and characteristics.

Improved version of programmable automation. The change of patterns occurs in a simple and fast way and mixtures of different products can be manufactured without wasting much time.

Set of totally independent machines, processes and data that work synchronously under a single control system. It is the maximum that an industrial automation process aspires to.

Through one of these systems we will be able to achieve the objectives of industrial automation.

Prehistory

The first simple machines replaced one form of effort with another form that could be handled by humans, such as lifting a heavy object with a pulley system or a lever. Later machines were able to replace human or animal energy with natural forms of renewable energy, such as wind, tides, or a flow of water.

Still later, some forms of automation were controlled by clockworks or similar devices using some forms of artificial power sources—some spring, a channeled flow of water or steam to produce simple, repetitive actions, such as moving figures, creating music, or playing games. These first devices characterized human figures, were known as automata and possibly date back to the year 300 BC. c.

19th century

In 1801, the patent for an automatic loom using punched cards was given to Joseph Marie Jacquard, who revolutionized the textile industry.

The most visible part of automation today may be industrial robotics. Some advantages are repeatability, tighter quality control, greater efficiency, integration with business systems, increased productivity, and reduction of human work. Some disadvantages are large capital requirements, severe decrease in flexibility, and an increase in dependence on maintenance and repair. For example, Japan has had to retire many of its industrial robots when they found that they were unable to adapt to dramatic changes in production requirements, unable to justify their high initial costs.

20th century

Already in the century, a differentiation began to develop between the first industrial revolution, whose core was focused on mechanization (steam engine, power loom) and began at the end of the century, and what was recently called the Second Industrial Revolution (in the second half of the century) which was centered around the automation of industry.[2]​.

Automation had existed for many years on a small scale, and by mid-century it was still using simple mechanisms to automate simple manufacturing tasks. The concept only became truly practical with the addition (and evolution) of digital computers, whose flexibility allowed any kind of task to be handled. Digital computers with the required combination of speed, computing power, price, and size to be applied in industry began to appear in the 1960s. Before that time, industrial computers were exclusively analog computers and hybrid computers. Since then digital computers took control of most simple, repetitive, semi-skilled and specialized tasks, with some notable exceptions in food production and inspection. As a famous anonymous saying goes, "for many highly changing tasks, it is difficult to replace human beings, who are easily retrained within a wide range of tasks, moreover, they are produced cheaply by untrained personnel."

There are many jobs that do not present the immediate risk of automation. No device that has been invented can compete, in precision and certainty in many tasks, against the human eye; nor against the human ear. Any person can identify and distinguish a greater number of essences than any automatic device. The skills for human pattern recognition, language recognition, and language production are beyond any expectations of automation engineers.

Industrial electricity

Industrial electricity refers to the generation, distribution and use of electrical energy in industrial and commercial environments. It involves a series of processes, equipment and systems designed to meet the electrical energy needs of industrial facilities, manufacturing plants, factories, warehouses and other similar environments. This energy is used to power machinery, lighting equipment, air conditioning systems, control and automation systems, among others.

Industrial electricity can be low, medium or high voltage, depending on the specific requirements of the facility and power demands. Industrial electrical systems are typically designed to be robust and reliable, as power outages can have a significant impact on the productivity and efficiency of industrial operations.

Sources:.

Industrial pneumatics

Industrial pneumatics is a branch of engineering that focuses on the use and control of compressed air for the automation of industrial processes. It uses air pressure to create movement and control various mechanisms and systems in industrial environments. Industrial pneumatics are especially useful in situations where linear or rotary force and motion are required.

In industrial pneumatics, components such as air compressors are used to generate compressed air, pneumatic cylinders to create linear motion, pneumatic motors and actuators to generate rotary motion, pneumatic valves to control air flow, and other elements such as filters and regulators to ensure efficient operation of the system.

Pneumatic systems are known for their simplicity, speed and responsiveness compared to other automation systems. They are widely used in the manufacturing industry and in various applications such as material handling, production line automation, machinery control, industrial robotics and more.

It is important to note that pneumatics is related to the use of compressed air, while hydraulics involves the use of liquids, usually oil, to achieve control and automation in industrial systems.

Sources:.

Industrial hydraulics

Industrial oleohydraulics, also known as industrial hydraulics, is a branch of engineering that deals with the use and control of fluids, usually oils, to transmit energy and perform work in industrial systems and machinery. Unlike pneumatics, which uses compressed air, oleohydraulics is based on the incompressibility of liquids to transmit force and movement efficiently.

In industrial oleohydraulics, components such as hydraulic pumps are used to generate liquid flow, hydraulic cylinders to create linear motion, hydraulic motors to generate rotary motion, hydraulic valves to control the flow and direction of fluid, and other elements such as accumulators and filters to optimize system operation.

The main advantage of oleohydraulics is its ability to handle heavy loads and transmit force over considerable distances with precision and control. It is widely used in a variety of industrial applications, such as presses, cranes, construction machines, agricultural machinery, lifting systems and many other areas where high power and precise control are required.

As in pneumatics, it is important to highlight that oleohydraulics is based on the transmission of energy through fluids, but in this case oil or other hydraulic fluids are used instead of compressed air.

Sources:.

Programmable controllers

Programmable controllers, also known as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), are electronic devices used in industrial automation to control and monitor processes and systems in a wide range of applications. These devices are essential for controlling and automating machines and processes in the manufacturing industry, building automation, food and beverage industry, chemical industry, automotive industry and many others.

A programmable controller consists of electronic components, such as a central processing unit, digital and analog inputs and outputs, memory, and a communication system. The programming of the PLC is carried out using programming software, where the instructions and logic that the controller must follow to carry out various tasks are defined.

The main functions of programmable controllers include:

1. Process control: PLCs can monitor and control industrial process sequences, such as product manufacturing, assembly line automation, and machinery control.

2. Logic and sequencing: Programmable controllers can implement Boolean logic to make decisions based on specific inputs and conditions, allowing the sequential execution of actions.

3. Motion Control: They can control motion systems, such as motors and actuators, to achieve precise movements in machines and equipment.

4. Communication: PLCs can interact with other devices and systems through communication protocols, allowing the integration of systems into a production line or larger industrial facility.

5. Supervision and monitoring: Many PLCs allow real-time monitoring and data collection for performance analysis and informed decision making.

Programming a PLC is carried out using specific programming languages, such as relay languages, ladder languages ​​or more advanced programming languages ​​such as Ladder Logic, Instruction List and others.

In summary, programmable controllers are essential elements in industrial automation, allowing the creation of flexible and adaptable control systems that improve efficiency, precision and safety in a variety of industrial processes and applications.

Sources:.

Industrial communications

Industrial communications refers to the systems and technologies used to transmit information and data between devices, equipment and systems in industrial environments. These communications are essential for efficient process control and automation in various industrial fields, such as manufacturing, energy, production, logistics, and more.

In the context of industrial communications, devices can include sensors, actuators, controllers, PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, HMI (Human-Machine Operator Interfaces), industrial robots, process control systems, among others. The ability of these devices to communicate with each other and with centralized monitoring and control systems is essential to optimize production, improve efficiency and ensure safety in industrial operations.

Some key concepts in industrial communications include:.

1. Communication protocols: These are sets of rules and standards that define how devices communicate and transmit data between each other. Examples of industrial protocols are Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, CAN (Control Area Network), among others.

2. Industrial networks: These are communication infrastructures that connect devices and systems within an industrial facility. These networks can be wired or wireless and are designed to offer speeds and data transmission capacities suitable for industrial needs.

3. Network topologies: Refers to the physical and logical structure of the network, such as bus, star, ring, mesh, etc., which determines how devices connect and communicate with each other.

4. SCADA and HMI systems: These systems allow the supervision and control of industrial processes. Operators can monitor the status of devices and processes in real time and make informed decisions based on the data provided by these systems.

5. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): The interconnection of devices and systems in industry via the Internet enables the collection, analysis and sharing of data to improve process efficiency and performance.

In summary, industrial communications are essential to achieving automation, efficiency and control in industrial environments. They allow the transfer of critical data that helps in decision making, process optimization and overall productivity improvement in various industries.

Sources:.

industrial robotics

Industrial robotics refers to the field of engineering and automation that deals with the design, construction, programming, and operation of robots in industrial and manufacturing environments. Industrial robots are programmable machines that can carry out repetitive, precise and dangerous tasks on production lines, warehouses and other industrial environments.

Industrial robots are designed to perform a variety of tasks, such as welding, assembly, material handling, packaging, painting, quality inspection, and many other activities that require strength, precision, and speed. These robots are equipped with sensors, actuators and control systems that allow them to interact with their environment and execute specific tasks according to programming instructions.

Key features and components of industrial robotics include:

1. **Manipulators and robotic arms**: These are the mechanical parts that allow the robot to move and perform tasks. They can have multiple joints and degrees of freedom to achieve complex movements.

2. **Sensors**: Industrial robots can be equipped with sensors such as cameras, proximity sensors, force sensors, and more. These sensors allow the robot to detect and adapt to its environment and the objects with which it interacts.

3. **Actuators**: These are the components that allow the robot to execute movements and actions. These may include electric motors, servomotors, and other actuation mechanisms.

4. **Controllers**: Industrial robots are controlled by electronic systems and specialized software. Controllers allow you to program the robot's behavior and manage its movements and actions.

5. **Programming**: Programming industrial robots involves defining the sequences of movements and actions that the robot must perform to carry out a specific task. This can be done through specific programming languages ​​or through graphical interfaces.

6. **Safety**: Safety is a key consideration in industrial robotics. Robots are often equipped with safety systems such as emergency stops, collision sensors and restricted work zones to ensure the safety of operators and other workers.

Industrial robotics has revolutionized the manufacturing industry by improving efficiency, quality and consistency in production. Robots allow repetitive tasks to be performed more quickly and accurately, which in turn frees up human workers for more creative and strategic tasks.

Sources:.

There is a fundamental and very current concept around industrial automation and it is that of DCS (distributed control systems"). A distributed control system is made up of several levels of automation that range from a minimum of 3 to 5. They are called: field level (where the sensors and actuators are located), control level (where the PLCs or Automation Stations are located), supervision level (where the Operation Stations and Process Servers are located), MES level (where PCs with specialized software for the distribution of all plant information as well as the generation of reports) and the ERP level (where there are also PCs with specialized software for the planning and administration of the production of the entire industry or company).

Specialized computers and input and output cards, both analog and digital, are used to read field inputs through sensors and to generate, through their program, outputs to the field through actuators. This leads to control precise actions that allow close control of any industrial process. (It was feared that these devices were vulnerable to the Y2K bug, with catastrophic consequences, since they are so common within the industrial world.)

Human-machine interfaces (HMI) or human-computer interfaces (CHI) are often used to communicate with PLCs and other computers, for tasks such as entering and monitoring temperatures or pressures for automatic controls or response to alarm messages. The service personnel who monitor and control these interfaces are known as station engineers and the personnel who operate directly on the HMI or SCADA (Control and Data Acquisition System) are known as operation personnel.

Another form of automation that involves computers is automation testing, where computers control automated test equipment that is programmed to simulate humans manually testing an application. This is usually accompanied by automated tools to generate special instructions (written as computer programs) that direct the automated equipment under test in the exact direction to complete the tests.

A study by two Ball State University professors found that between 2000 and 2010, about 87 percent of job losses in North American manufacturing were due to increased factory efficiency from automation and better technology. Only 13% of job losses were due to trade, according to CNN.[3]​.

With the acceleration in the adoption of artificial intelligence technology, it is expected that more people will be displaced by automation in the near future; which has generated an intense public policy discussion in 2017. Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, has defended the idea that robots should pay taxes to compensate for technological unemployment. On the other hand, Lawrence Summers, an American economist, responded to Bill Gates by saying that collecting taxes from an activity that generates wealth would not be logical, and what would have to be done to face the loss of jobs is to invest resources in education and retraining.[4]​.

Contenido

La automatización de procesos tiene diversos campos de aplicación e involucra a múltiples ramas de la ingeniería. Gracias al avance de nuevas tecnologías emergentes en el contexto de la Industria 4.0 como son Internet de la Cosas (IoT / IIoT), machine learning, inteligencia artificial, big data, sistemas computacionales en la nube, realidad virtual y aumentada, blockchain, robótica, conectividad 5G, ciberseguridad, entre otros, se hace posible la apertura de nuevos campos de aplicación, donde se busca optimizar los procesos productivos, fortalecer la cadena de valor, aumentar la eficiencia operacional y mejorar la productividad de las empresas.[5]​ Así tenemos por ejemplo:.

Automated mining

Automated mining involves the elimination of human labor from the mining process.[6]​ The mining industry is transitioning towards automation. Automated mining is a general term that refers to two types of technology. The first type refers to the automation of processes and software; The second type deals with applying robotic technology to mining vehicles and equipment.

Automation of business processes

Business process automation[7]​ is the industrial automation of complicated business processes[8]​ through technology enablement. A business can be optimized to make it simpler,[9]​ achieve digital transformation, increase service quality, improve the services delivered or contain costs. Business process automation can achieve application integration, workforce restructuring, and use application software throughout the organization. Business process automation can be implemented in several areas including marketing,[10]​ sales[11]​ and workflow.[12]​.

Platooning

Platooning is the construction of an automated highway.[13]​ Platooning reduces the distance between vehicles using electronic couplings, and also, possibly mechanical devices. This mechanism allows the linked vehicles to accelerate or brake synchronously, in such a way that the reaction distance necessary for humans is eliminated, allowing a greater number of vehicles to be inserted on the roads. Putting this transportation system into circulation requires the acquisition of new vehicles or the modification of current ones so that platooning can be implemented in them. "Intelligent vehicles") will allow, due to their on-board artificial intelligence systems, to be included or left in the platoons.

The design, implementation and commissioning of machines and plants are specifically oriented for automation.[14]​ The methods and solutions are the result of a generalized model of observation of real physical systems. The methods of automation technology are, in part, adapted to certain specific processes.

Most modern general process automation methods use theoretical or experimental models of processes in an analytical form. On the basis of these models, methods for the design and implementation of various automation functions can be scientifically substantiated. These include methods such as:

Science-based automation systems have given rise to regulation and control models (self-adjusting or continuously adaptive) that self-monitor and provide diagnostic functions.

Process-oriented methods are used to develop mechatronic devices and systems. These include, for example, computer-aided modeling, simulation and digital control of robots, machine tools, internal combustion engines, motor vehicles, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical drives, where practically tested diagnostic methods are developed. The automation solution must use existing infrastructure and adapt to existing processes.[15]​ Of particular importance are the development and testing of "computational intelligence" methods, that is, a combination of fuzzy logic, neural networks and evolutionary optimization algorithms.

Automation and rationalization go hand in hand. In production, manual labor decreases, productivity increases and labor costs decrease. Automation for any economic branch is an important cause of the decrease in the volume of work as a consequence of the increase in productivity. Automation also creates new jobs. There are new machines and systems with a higher degree of automation and they tend to have a larger market. Automated plants and machines have a short production cycle and can be easily updated and adapted to new products.

The successes and importance of key industries are made possible by constant improvements in automation.

Machines reduce the proportion of monotonous work for humans.

Also automation is not just limited to industrial applications, for example; in the field of automatic payment services in banks, or the self-generated electricity bill. Furthermore, many activities in the home (for example, washing clothes with a washing machine) or in everyday life (adjusting the brake pressure of a motor vehicle with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and/or ESP&action=edit&redlink=1 "Electronic stability control (automotive) (not yet drafted)")) have emerged as a result of the proliferation of automation processes.