Explore the benefits of on-machine solutions, such as variable frequency drives (VFDs) and distributed control systems. Discuss applications in various industries and environments, supported by real-world case studies and success stories that demonstrate increased efficiency and reduced installation costs.
Overview
On-machine solutions like variable frequency drives (VFDs) and distributed control systems offer numerous benefits across a range of industries and environments by enhancing operational efficiency and reducing installation costs.
VFDs, for instance, are widely used to control the speed and torque of electric motors, which optimizes energy consumption and improves performance in applications such as HVAC systems, conveyor belts and pumps. By adjusting motor speed to match operational requirements, VFDs can lead to substantial energy savings and extend the lifespan of equipment.
Distributed control systems (DCS), on the other hand, enable decentralized management of complex industrial processes by distributing control functions across multiple nodes within a network. This approach enhances system reliability and scalability and also allows for more precise control and monitoring of processes.
Real-world case studies and success stories highlight the transformative impact of these technologies. Manufacturer can vastly decrease electric motor energy consumption and maintenance. Similarly, by adopting a DCS, operators see improvements in process accuracy and operational flexibility, leading to increased production rates and reduced downtime. These examples underscore the practical advantages of on-machine solutions, demonstrating their ability to drive efficiency and cost savings across diverse industrial settings.
Key Takeaways
- Understand how various equipment changes can create impactful energy savings, leading to meaningful savings for many electric motor applications
- Explore how DCS allows for decentralized management of industrial processes, improving reliability, scalability, and control precision, which ultimately enhances operational flexibility and process accuracy
- Gain insights from case studies that illustrate the transformative impact on energy consumption, maintenance costs, production rates, and downtime
Speakers
Over the past 34 years, Dean Phillips has been a leader in the technology sectors and the world of smart manufacturing. His is a continuous advisor to the smart manufacturing advisory committees with Society of Manufacturing Engineers and PMA Precision Metalforming Association. Phillips has been a speaker on IoT, AI, robotics, VR and AR. He is the creator of reality safe, a VR / AR safety training solution for manufacturing, working with Purdue. Phillips has spent the majority of his time advancing IoT, maintenance and safety to be more predictive and develop outcome based solutions. He has been on the board of directors for SME and an advisor for TTU, MTSU and TCAT. He has been a contributing lecturer on big data and it’s value and need for artificial intelligence to filter the information into actionable items. Phillips provides safety and development to cobot users and assists universities to outline expectations from manufacturers.
Joe Azzolina brings 30 years of automation expertise to the table. With a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and computer technology, and a degree in business administration from the Milwaukee School of Engineering, Azzolina offers an impressive track record of developing innovative products in the On-Machine™ or zero cabinet space. Within his tenure at Rockwell Automation, Azzolina has amassed expertise across engineering management, product marketing, commercial engineering and manufacturing operations. His ability to navigate and integrate these diverse functional areas has been instrumental in his ability to guide cross-functional teams to achieve strategic objectives.
Benjamin has spent 16 years designing and manufacturing engine bleed air systems in the aerospace industry. Over this time, he helped grow the manufacturing and design capability through incremental process improvements, including physical and digital automation. At AMT, he oversees the technology research arm and is responsible for assessing the manufacturing industry on cutting-edge technologies. Through this research, he provides content and direction to the manufacturing technology creators within the US. Automation is poised to be the next pivot technology to grow US-based manufacturing.
Mike Bubolz, a product developer and founder of EISEN DEV, a Milwaukee-based agency specializing in turning innovative ideas into reality. With an insatiable curiosity for new technologies and a deep commitment to empowering start-ups, Mike has helped companies around the world build hardware that delights users and drives growth. Known for his practical insights and experience in automation, product development, and manufacturing, Mike brings a unique perspective to leveraging technology to streamline processes and boost productivity.