Frank O Smith
Articles
SOA: Building an industrial operating system – IT benefits
Service-oriented architectures impact how engineers build workflows and make PLC, DCS, and HMI connections.
Incuity Software: Visual unification: SOA-based solution converts production data into actionable intelligence
International Paint was experiencing the kind of problem a manufacturer would love to have. An operating unit of Netherlands-based Akzo Nobel, the company was running its Houston-based plant full-tilt with three shifts, but needed more capacity to handle the growing business. The question was whether to expand, or find new means to improve productivity.
Right Hemisphere: Graphics management platform makes a picture worth a thousand simulations for Bell Helicopter
Steve Lewis appreciates the power of a picture. Employed by Bell Helicopter for nearly 30 years, there was a time he flew all over the world as a staff engineer to translate what he calls the “engineering speak” that often characterizes operating and service manuals so field maintenance/repair personnel could get aircraft back into the sky.
ILS Technology: Equipment data finds its way into enterprise systems via automation appliance
A major North American automotive manufacturer was struggling with data extraction from its factory-floor equipment and moving it up into an enterprise system. It wanted to avoid the lengthy prospect of first having to deploy expensive SCADA or manufacturing execution system (MES) technology to act as a connectivity conduit.
Rockwell Automation/Cisco Systems: Customer needs pave Ethernet’s way from factory floor to executive suite
Listening to your customers is a skill to hone. That's why users of both Rockwell Automation and Cisco Systems solutions recently attended the Customer Innovation Council—a series of events hosted by the vendors—to make their views known. These particular users clearly expressed a desire for greater adoption of Ethernet network technology, calling for easier connectivity of industri...