Other Networks
A novel technique developed by MIT researchers compresses “objects” in memory for the first time, freeing up more memory used by computers, allowing them to run faster and perform more tasks simultaneously. Courtesy: Christine Daniloff, MIT
Other Networks April 17, 2019

Data-compression technique developed for faster computer programs

A technique developed by MIT researchers frees up more memory used by computers and mobile devices, allowing them to run faster and perform more tasks simultaneously.

By Rob Matheson
Shown are outdoor tanks and piping for Angel's Envy Distillery, Louisville, Ky. Courtesy: Mark T. Hoske, CFE Media, Control Engineering
Other Networks April 15, 2019

Top 5 Control Engineering articles April 8-14

Articles about evaluating a system integrator, the Engineers' Choice Awards, IIoT and machine control, questions to ask an SI, and rate-predictive control were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from April 8-14. Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Chris Vavra
Courtesy: CFE Media
Other Networks April 13, 2019

Three data types companies need to prioritize

Not all data is equal and some require greater attention and priority than others. Industrial companies managing networks need to focus on information-based, mission critical and real-time data.

By Jonathan Simpson
It's an eight-step process for companies to turn data into information, according to Drury. Courtesy: Chris Vavra, CFE Media
Other Networks April 11, 2019

Use context with IIoT to provide automation value

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has a lot of potential, but without context and a clear goal, value for companies will be less. See 8 ways to move from data to information.

By Chris Vavra
One-cable technology (OCT) can support servomotors of all sizes, from low-wattage options connected to compact drives in an I/O terminal form factor up to large F7-flange motors that require large drives. Courtesy: Beckhoff Automation
Other Networks April 10, 2019

Efficient motion system engineering reduces servomotor costs

Configuration using PC-based control software, EtherCAT networks, integrated drives, and one-cable technology (OCT) simplify motion control system design and reduce servomotor costs.

By Matt Prellwitz
Stan Gelizer, Mecademic sales and technical support manager, talked about robot accuracy and precision at Automate 2019. Courtesy: Chris Vavra, CFE Media
Other Networks April 9, 2019

Improving industrial robot accuracy and precision

There are many tools and programs designed to make industrial robots more accurate and precise for demanding manufacturing applications.

By Chris Vavra
MathWorks Matlab/Simulink environments enable the design and simulation of new applications, such as this hexapod, as well as advanced algorithms that can be used in the machine controller to control the physical hexapod. Courtesy: Beckhoff Automation
Other Networks April 8, 2019

Machine design concepts improve automation and controls simulation

Virtual design tools and automation software intersect to save time and costs in machine commissioning so engineers can spot potential flaws before implementation.

By Daymon Thompson
Figure 3: Running forward. Running forward down a straightaway is easy. With a view of the track ahead, the runner can compensate almost instantaneously to any slow drift to the left or right, even when sprinting at top speed. In much the same way, a feedforward controller applied to a process with limited, measurable disturbances can keep the process variable close to the setpoint easily enough. Running forward around a curve is not all that much more difficult. The runner can visually measure any impending disturbances (curves), anticipate the effect on future trajectory, and make course corrections as needed rather than afterwards. Advance knowledge allows a front-facing runner to round a curve much faster and with much less error than a rear-facing runner can. Advance knowledge allows a feedforward controller to be more aggressive and more accurate. If the controller can correctly predict how a disturbance is going to affect the process variable and how to compensate for it, the controller can afford to apply more assertive control efforts. Doing so can reduce the effects of an impending disturbance just as a runner can stay right in the center of the lane when anticipating upcoming curves. Courtesy: Control Engineering
Other Networks April 8, 2019

Top 5 Control Engineering articles April 1-7

Articles about feedforward control, rate-predictive control, IIoT and machine control, Big Data analysis, and the top stories of March 2019 were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from April 1-7. Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Chris Vavra
Donna Moore, CEO and Chairwoman of the LoRa Alliance. Courtesy: LoRa Alliance
Other Networks April 4, 2019

Networking groups announce liaison agreement

The LoRa Alliance and the DLMS User Association (DLMS UA) announced they have signed a liaison agreement to jointly develop DLMS-over-LoRaWAN to support smart metering use cases.

By LoRa Alliance
Courtesy: Hannover Messe
Other Networks April 3, 2019

Hannover Messe 2019, Day 2: New partnerships, new Partner Country

Open Industry 4.0 alliance formed, Indonesia named Partner Country for 2020, TSN testbed released

By Bob Vavra