Automation Fair promotes connected enterprise

The keynote presentation by Kris Dornan at the Rockwell Automation Fair stressed the connected enterprise concept.

By Eric R. Eissler November 18, 2015

Kris Dornan, PlantPAx Device Integration Manager at Rockwell Automation, said that the connected enterprise is the main focus of the Process Solution User Group. This concept is propelled by the the Internet of Things (IoT) and provides systems engineers a better overview of their operations. Dornan said that sensors, systems, and HMIs are all connected and displayed so that the engineer can connect them to components, power supplies, and safety systems. By using preloaded protocols and connections, the time it takes to set up a system is reduced by up to 80%, Dornan said. Process strategies assist the engineer to import procedures assign it to an I/O within a minute’s time.

These types of systems, Dornan said, are predicted to be part of the IoT revolution. The Process Solution User Group places emphasis on end users’ success stories with using new technologies and processes.

Rockwell Automation’s next-generation Integrated Architecture portfolio is an example of the connected enterprise. The portfolio is designed to reduce complexity while helping users meet future capacity and throughput needs as they design systems for a connected enterprise.

The portfolio includes a next-generation Allen-Bradley controller, graphic terminal, servo drive, and distributed I/O system. It also includes the latest release of the Rockwell Software Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk software offerings. The expanded portfolio also incorporates a number of security features designed to help manufacturers and industrial operators protect their facilities, assets and intellectual property.

– Eric R. Eissler is editor-in-chief at Oil & Gas Engineering, eeissler@cfemedia.com.

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