Integrating Islands of Automation: The Factory Floor Network

Abstract

Traditionally, manufacturing technologies have been introduced onto the factory floor independently, and managers operated each technology without regard for how it related to others, creating islands of automation. With computer-integrated manufacturing, management can increase the productivity of existing equipment and staff and cut down on organizational delays. This column examines the new technologies of integration, their capabilities, and the benefits they provide.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Stephen T. Zailyk

Stephen T. Zailyk is vice-president of marketing and sales of RWT Corp, Mount Prospect IL. which specializes in CIM technology and manufactures distributed numerical control systems and a broad range of factory floor products and services. Zailyk has more than 20 years of experience that includes engineering and management positions within the communications, metalworking, and consulting industries. Zailyk received an MBA in marketing from Loyola University and a BS in engineering from the University of Wisconsin.