The Manufacturing world of today relies on complex communications solutions to operate efficiently and safely. Manufacturers depend upon timely information in order to operate increasing complex production facilities. The systems used for this so called “command and control” may span the operations of their multiple networks. Process control is extensively used throughout the industry and enables mass production of consistent products, functions and outcomes from continuously operated processes. Such operational control includes managing and operating in multiple and diverse industries such as oil refining, paper manufacturing, chemical production, automobile manufacturing, airplane and aerospace industry processes, machinery operation, industrial fabrication, agriculture, power plants, physical security functions, transportation and many other applications. Process control enables automation by which a small staff of operating personnel can quickly, consistently and safely operate complex process from a central control location.
Process control is an Engineering discipline that deals with multiple systems, mechanisms, protocols and architectures. All of these systems are intended to operate, control and maintain output or operations within specific parameters or processes to deliver the desired result. These functions control or operate infinite applications and activity that spans a range of everything from the speed of the process or production to regulating operating temperatures to managing basic input/output quantities. Process control touches almost every aspect of any automated or semi-automated process. Remote starting or stopping, valve controls, pressure controls and current status are all typical forms of control that require connectivity and platforms to manage. DataRemote has built our business on servicing the communications needs of these disparate and complex systems, protocols, architectures and platforms. DataRemote has developed and integrated communications solutions to match the environments presented by the functional and operational demands of the systems in use.
These systems carry many different names and functions. Sometimes these systems are referred to by another name use by many Utility Industry customers. That term is: Supervisory Control and Data Accusation (SCADA). SCADA is one of many tools that can be used while working in an environment where operational duties need to be monitored remotely through communication instead of locally. These systems can be automated to operate without intervention, provide remote control or can simply indicate status. The depth of control is driven by the industry or process requirement for a desired outcome.DataRemote keenly understands the unique communications requirements for reliability, accuracy and failover as well as the financial implications of maintaining equipment over long periods of installed operation and life.
Faced with technology upgrade requirements, businesses must often juggle the availability of suitable mediums for carrying information within the installed technology. Legacy equipment interface requirements can sometimes complicate change. DataRemote is skilled at recognizing these situations and positioned to offer tailored solutions via our stable of technology partners, our engineering and integration skills and our own manufacturing capabilities.
Types of functions using process control:
- Discrete – Typically found in many manufacturing, motion and packaging applications. Such environments may incorporate robotic assembly and machinery to complete the process or task. Examples of Discrete function are typically found in automotive production. For the most part, Discrete functions involves the production of individual pieces of product.
- Batch – Typically found in processes that require quantities of raw materials to be combined in specific ways for particular durations to produce an intermediate or end result. One example is the production of adhesives and glues, which normally require the mixing of raw materials with heat for a period of time to form a quantity of end product.
- Continuous – Typically found in systems represented through variables that are consistent or uninterrupted. An example of Continuous process is the control of the water temperature in manufacturing a product. Other examples involve production of fuels, chemicals and plastics.
- Hybrid – Typically applications having elements of discrete, batch and continuous process control are often called hybrid applications.
DataRemote has pioneered the ability to interface legacy command and control protocols with the state of the art technologies available. The concept of the so called “Internet of Things” (IoT) has brought increased abilities to drive production, transmission, distribution and quality to new levels of efficiency. Process Control systems can be coupled with the increased productivity, safety and reliability created by faster and more diverse communications networks. DataRemote can assist operators and users to be in a position to harness the IoT ecosystem thereby creating the opportunity to be able to deliver increased efficiency, often at a lower cost than traditional wireline based analog technology. DataRemote offers a full line of Industrial grade cellular and radio communications solutions to meet the requirements of the industry.