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?
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The SAIMC Johannesburg branch hosted its June Technology Evening at the Bryanston Sports Club, where attendees explored a topic beyond the usual scope of process automation.
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The August technology meeting was jointly presented by Pusetso Sentle and Suvern Moodley on the subject of ‘Universal Automation: Open, Flexible and Vendor-Agnostic Industrial Control’, and drew a record attendance.
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