Industrial automation tools are of a wide range of tools that are employed for
industrial automation. These tools comprise various control systems that incorporate
diverse sub-systems or devices to enhance industrial processes. Notable examples
include Computer-aided design (CAD software) and Computer-aided manufacturing
(CAM software), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Distributed Control Systems
(DCS), Human-Machine Interface (MHI), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
System (SCADA), instrumentation and robotics, etc. They are beneficiaries in the area
of product development (improved design, analysis, and manufacture of products),
quality control time and cost-effectiveness amongst others. This chapter emphasizes
industrial automation tools and components. Furthermore, the application of industrial
automation in robotics, packaging systems, computer numeric control systems, tool
monitoring systems, advanced inspection systems as well as flexible manufacturing
systems were discussed in this chapter. Industrial automation tools can significantly
influence industrial processes with a reduction in manufacturing lead time,
improvement in product quality, and effective process monitoring.
Keywords: ANN, Automation tools, CAD, CAM, DCS, HMI, SCADA.
