Technology Trends In Industrial Automation



Kenwood H. Hall
Vice President of Architecture and Systems Advanced Technology
Rockwell Automation

Abstract

Industrial Automation has evolved from stand-alone, hard-wired relay panels to a contemporary, networked system of today that supports flexible manufacturing and enterprise integration. From precision control of machines and robots on the factory floor to flexible coordination of multiple cells of automation, advancements in control, communications, electronics and software technologies have driven the evolution of industrial automation. The confluence of these technologies is shaping the future direction of industrial automation systems. This presentation will summarize the major technical trends and highlight the opportunities and challenges for the evolution of future industrial automation systems.



Curriculum Vitae

Ken is a Cleveland Native and a graduate of Cleveland State University's Fenn College of Engineer. Ken has worked in engineering and engineering management in the Cleveland area for a number of companies including Keithley Instruments, Picker X ray, Firestone and Allen-Bradley which is now Rockwell Automation. Ken has lead the development of many of Rockwell Automations large controller systems including the new LOGIX family of integrated controllers. Ken is active at CSU as the chairman of the Visiting Committee for the engineering college. Ken is a board member of the Holonic Manufacturing Systems international consortium which is part of the larger Intelligent Manufacturing Systems international consortium. Ken's current responsibilities are focused on the investigation of advanced technologies for industrial automation.