672a28f54934951246704a16 Shutterstock 2500574695

What do the automation industry and space have in common?

Nov. 5, 2024
Bi-directional technology has the potential for cross-industry collaboration and problem-solving

In industries where equipment often operates in isolated or hazardous environments—similar to the conditions in space—lessons from space-based operations can inform the development of robust, autonomous systems that ensure safety and efficiency.

Eugene Spiropoulos from Yokogawa and Andrea Course from Shell highlighted these parallels in a panel at YNOW2024, emphasizing the role of advanced remote operations, cybersecurity and automation as crucial elements for both space and Earth-based industries. For example, technologies that streamline offshore oil operations share characteristics with space technology, such as resilience in harsh, inaccessible locations, which enhances their relevance for terrestrial applications.

Additionally, the discussion raised intriguing possibilities for technology transfer between space and earth-bound industries, focusing on how space innovations can address industrial automation challenges.

As noted, there is resistance to adopting autonomous technologies in established industries, often due to cultural inertia rather than technical feasibility. However, as Course and Wogbe Ofori discuss, advancements in space technology—driven by the need for reliability, autonomy, and data-centric operations—may pave the way for increased acceptance and innovation in factory automation.

To learn more, read the full article from partner publication Control, whose editors reported live from YNOW2024.

Sponsored Recommendations

Learn how Beijer’s X2 extreme HMI thrives in extreme oil & gas environments—this webinar breaks down specs, certifications, and integration strategies for industrial engineers...
Maximize efficiency & cut costs with IO-Link sensors. Discover how smarter condition monitoring reduces downtime, simplifies setup, and scales affordably. Download our white paper...
NSK integrates advanced automation and drive technologies to deliver high capacity, high speed, ultra-precise indexing and positioning in a compact, flexible linear actuator: ...
Sensing devices and vision components are a large part of safety systems. They protect employees, equipment and processes. But they do so much more. The applications are continue...