Automation

Machine Information Systems

The term automation could've well have been
made up from automatic and motion.
I'm not sure if that's true, but it would be quite apt.

He used the word to describe a collection of automated systems using feedback, with the use of which, there was a marked substitution of mechanical, electrical and/or computerized operations; for human input, knowhow and monitoring.

Within the general usage therms, it can be defined as a technology concerned with performing a process by means of programmed commands, combined with automatic feedback control (see control system) to ensure proper execution of the instructions. The resulting system is capable of operating without human intervention.

The process of having a machine or machines accomplish tasks hitherto performed wholly or partly by humans. As used here, a machine refers to any inanimate electromechanical device such as a robot or computer.

As a technology, automation can be applied to almost any human endeavor, from manufacturing to clerical and administrative tasks. An example of automation is the heating and air-conditioning system in the modern household.

After initial programming by the occupant, these systems keep the house at a constant desired temperature regardless of the conditions outside.

The fundamental constituents of any automated process are a power source, a feedback control mechanism, and a programmable command structure. Programmability does not necessarily imply an electronic computer.

For example, the Jacquard loom, developed at the beginning of the nineteenth century, used metal plates with holes to control the weaving process. Nonetheless, the advent of World War II and the advances made in electronic computation and feedback have certainly contributed to the growth of automation.

While feedback is usually associated with more advanced forms of automation, so-called open-loop automated tasks are possible. Here, the automated process proceeds without any direct and continuous assessment of the effect of the automated activity. For example, an automated car wash typically completes its task with no continuous or final assessment of the cleanliness of the automobile.

Done with Automation? Jump back to Definitions page.

See the Definition of Management Information Systems.

Fast forward your production on the production page

Return from Definition of Management Information System to Home