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Describes the commercial and technical benefits of using a modular approach to system automation. Written by a supplier of modular automation systems.

Suggests that when building assembly machines a systematic approach is required for optimum accuracy, repeatability and performance. Accepts that all assembly machines will differ depending on the operations but believes that a more modular approach should be followed. Cites Modular Automation Ltd as an example of a bespoke machine manufacturer which uses a modular approach and also records improvements and changes in designs so they can be accessed by anyone in the organization and built into other machines. Gives examples of the company’s modular philosophy.

Sensorless interior permanent magnet in-wheel motor (IPMIWM), as an exemplar of modular automation system, has attracted considerable interests in recent years. This paper aims to investigate a novel hybrid control approach for the sensorless IPMIWM from a cyber-physical systems (CPS) perspective.

The control approach is presented based on the hybrid dynamical theory. In the standstill-low (S-L) speed, the rotor position/speed signal is estimated by the method of the high frequency (HF) voltage signal injection. The least square support vector machine (LS-SVM) is used to acquire the rotor position/speed signal in medium-high (M-H) speed operation. Hybrid automata model of the IPMIWM is established due to its hybrid dynamic characteristics in wide speed range. A hybrid state observer (HSO), including a discrete state observer (DSO) and a continuous state observer (CSO), is designed for rotor position/speed estimation of the IPMIWM.

The hardware-in-the-loop testing based on dSPACE is carried out on the test bench. Experimental investigations demonstrate the hybrid control approach can not only identify the rotor position/speed signal with a certain load but also be able to reject the load disturbance. The reliability and the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid control approach were verified.

The proposed hybrid control approach for the sensorless IPMIWM promotes the deep combination and coordination of sensorless IPMIWM drive system. It also theoretically supports and extends the development of the hybrid control of the highly integrated modular automation system.

Looks at the interface between people and automation and considers which tasks are best suited to machines and which to people. Notes particularly the cost factors involved and the prime concerns of price and quality. Points to a balance in the interface between operator and machine in order to ensure maximum effectiveness. Focuses on three examples of the use of automation and concludes that the future holds increased automation, leading to improved working environments and better products.