Introduction to Industrial Automation

Review Questions

 1.1. Define the term “industrial system” from the automation point of view. Give important 

considerations concerning either the industrial equipment or its characteristics.

  1.2. What is the “dominant variable” of an industrial production procedure? Give some exam-

ples of the dominant variable in concrete industrial applications.

  1.3. In your opinion, what is an automation system? Indicate the difference between an automa-

tion system and an automatic control system.

  1.4.  What is the purpose of using sensors in an industrial system? Explain the difference between 

the information derived by sensors and that provided by indication devices.

 1.5. What is the role of handling devices in an industrial system when this system has been 

automated?

  1.6. The control terms utilized in the operation of an automated industrial system may include 

the following:

 

a.  Sequential control

 

b.  ON-OFF control

 

c.  Logic control

 

d.  Digital control

  Indicate which of these terms primarily refer to control based on Boolean theory.

 1.7. Explain the differences between an automation circuit and a wiring diagram. Which of 

them expresses better the “logic” of system operation?

  1.8.  In your opinion, does the automation of an industrial production process increase or decrease 

unemployment? Explain substantially.

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