In the last few publications we looked at the newly envisaged mechatronics qualification. We looked at the different groups within mechatronics as was recommended to ECSA, namely: factory automation, process automation and mechatronic devices. We also looked at the various industries where you would find these practitioners.
Johan Maartens.
The next question to consider is: “Which technologies would mechanical professionals work with?” Here is a list of some possibilities: computation systems; data logging and recording; databases; DCS; HMI; industrial computer hardware; microcontrollers; PLCs; OPC UA; scada; single board computers (Raspberry Pi, etc.); traditional PC-based automation; and integrated devices (mobile phones, tablets, etc.).
Together with these hardware technologies, mechatronic professionals would typically be involved in some of the following software platforms: embedded Linux and Windows; historians; modern automation coding languages (C, C#, Python, SCL); laboratory information management systems; and production information management systems.
You will also find them working with the following network technologies: CAN-Bus; fibre; EtherCAT; Foundation Fieldbus; Industrial Ethernet; Industrial Wireless; Modbus; Profibus; and Profinet.
Process control technologies they could be involved with include: alarm management; anti-surge control; control room design and layout; enclosures, cabling and accessories; process measurement (temperature, pressure, level, flow and mass); safety systems and vibration monitoring.
They could also be involved in any one or more of the following: digital enterprise and information technologies: artificial intelligence; augmented reality; cloud storage and services, edge computing and industrial 5G; digital twins; virtual commissioning; and embedded control technologies.
In the next article of this series I will talk about the various outcomes that applicants would need to provide evidence of, and then in the last article I will expand on ECSA. Is it worth being a member? We have not yet had any tangible benefit from being registered with ECSA, so what has changed – if anything?
SAIMC: Cape Town branch April 2021, SAIMC
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Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch March 2021, SAIMC
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Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the CEO March 2021, SAIMC
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In my last letter, I committed to talking to you about the various outcomes for which applicants would need to provide evidence in order to qualify with ECSA for certification in mechatronics.
But ...
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the CEO April 2021, SAIMC
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Read more...SAIMC: Cape Town branch February 2021, SAIMC
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What an interesting year 2020 was and we are looking forward to an exciting 2021.
The branch recently held its annual AGM and elected new branch management team. This event was a hybrid meeting where ...
Read more...SAIMC: Vaal branch February 2021, SAIMC
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The branch held its AGM on 13 January, where various topics were discussed, including: • Continuation of the online technical evenings in 2021 with the possibility of face-to-face meetings subject to ...
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