One of the most exciting technologies in our industry today is in the area of automation. It's more than a single technology; rather, it's the application of a range of technologies including motors, computers, monitoring systems and human interfaces. It allows for the creation of production values that were previously impossible or impractical. These systems draw on a variety of disciplines to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. When you marry precision-networked control, feedback loops and programming capability with electro-mechanical systems like motors and mechanical systems like gears and rigging, the results can appear to be magical. To get a peek of some of this "magic," CLICK HERE.  

 

The increasing power of computer and networking technology combined with sophisticated software and hardware have not only made automation systems practical and more affordable, but it has also made them much more commonplace in our industry. As they continue to grow in popularity there will be a growing demand for designers, programmers, techs, engineers and systems integrators who understand and can apply a range of disciplines including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, structural engineering, information systems technology and more.

 

You can see automation systems in action in just about any large show including Trans-Siberian Orchestra (see cover story), Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark on Broadway, the Shanghai China Expo 2010 and more. And you can read about some of the main players in the field of automation and the products they have to offer. Just set your limit switches to the end of the article and press GO.

 

To download a copy of the Jan. 2011 PLSN Buyers Guide, CLICK HERE .

 

 

 

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