Automation Engineering - A Beginner's Guide

The term ‘ auto mation ' (DCS) is used to describe a wide variety of systems that interact with sensors and actuators to control machinery and vehicles, for example. One of the more traditional types of DCS is the modern day ‘PC based controller'. However, given the rise of the machine-to-machine (M2M) and internet-of-things (IoT) technologies, the types of machines and vehicles that can be controlled with DCS are becoming far more diverse. For example, with M2M and IoT technologies, it is now possible to control almost every aspect of a vehicle's operation from start to finish, including driving, navigation, fuel injection, and suspension settings. As a result, the kinds of DCS software that can be used vary from simple, standalone solutions for basic control applications to highly complex platforms that can be used for factory automation and the like. Additionally, as DCS gains popularity and more and more manufacturers want to make their products compatible with DCS, there are a growing number of third-party ‘black box' (object) controllers available that can be interfaced with various types of software and hardware.

From the hardware perspective, the only commonality between most traditional DCS and the more modern versions is their need for a computer or similar type of device to function. However, this need is disappearing as more and more solutions utilize M2M and IoT technologies, which don't always require a traditional computing device.

Why should you get involved in distributed control systems?

DCS is a broad field, and as the name suggests, it is often used to control machinery and vehicles. However, its use is far more versatile than this, as it can be used to control just about anything that can be automated. This includes everything from large equipment used in factories and construction sites, to smaller appliances used at home (think washing machines and dryers). When it comes to choosing a career in automation, you can't really go wrong by focusing on DCS. Not only will you learn a vast array of applications and technologies, but you will also be able to work on a variety of different types of equipment, from large industrial controls to small consumer devices.

In particular, if you are new to the field and want to learn more about it, consider looking into the field of ‘automation engineering' or ‘automation technician' as a starting point. Not only will you learn the theory and application of DCS, but you will also gain experience in actual, real-world settings. Additionally, many companies will train you to be a ‘systems engineer', which will offer you a glimpse of the wider field of DCS.

How can you control something if you don't have a computer or similar device?

If you are reading this, then you probably already know the answer to this question. If not, here it is: you can't. The good news is, DCS allows for a variety of solutions to this problem, many of which don't require a computer at all. This is especially beneficial for those looking to enter the field and lacking previous experience.

One of the more popular and most effective solutions is the use of special-purpose hardware called ‘instruments' that can be connected ot a network and remotely controlled. Each instrument is designed for a specific task, such as controlling temperature or monitoring vibrations, and can perform this task more efficiently than a traditional PC-based controller. Instrumentation vendors like National Instruments provide both hardware and software solutions for DCS, and many large manufacturers, such as Ford and Airbus, use specialized instruments in their manufacturing processes.

What is the general consensus on the future of DCS?

The consensus among experts seems to be that DCS will continue to grow as more and more manufacturers and users see the benefits of utilizing this technology. However, as mentioned above, this is not a field that is without its pitfalls. One of the biggest issues is the sheer volume of information that beginners and novices can easily get confused by. Additionally, as more and more manufacturers want to make their products compatible with DCS, the development of third-party controllers and various technical hurdles that they can pose may become an issue.

On the plus side, many see the popularity of DCS and the demand for its use as a driver for further innovation and the development of new, specialized controllers and instruments that can make this technology even more efficient and useful. If you're looking for a career in automation and are interested in DCS, keep your eyes open for new developments as they arise and continue learning from the best.