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Time to act
Energy is something we use every minute of every day.
Sometimes we don't give it much thought; other times it may
preoccupy us, whether we are responsible for ensuring its
supply, use it to provide food, to travel places or wonder how to
pay for it. Another reason for concern may be related to global
warming, the environment or health issues associated with
obtaining and using fuel. In short, we are affected by energy,
on whatever level and in whatever big or small way.
Energy usage is also a big concern for factories. For many
energy consumption is the largest contributing factor to
increasing production costs and rising faster than labour costs.
How do we use fuel more efficiently, how can we prevent losses
in supply systems, what can we do to use less and how can
we make or convert energy-inefficient equipment into energy-
efficient ones? In this issue of trends in automation we focus
on how factories can change the way they manage their energy
requirements to save money and resources.
In an interview with Dr. Mueller we read about his thoughts
on cutting consumption in very interesting ways. These include
considering energy usage right at the design stage, using
software, regulating power requirements to match the flux of
slower and busier work times. "Smart" systems can also
help to make better use of natural lighting, air and water by
monitoring and adjusting usage carefully. We also explore
some rather inventive uses of solar power and batteries that
could prove interesting for the future.
The modern world is inextricably linked to energy. As world
population grows and standards of living improve, the topic
of how we source and use energy becomes significant and
could have far-reaching consequences. Not only do we need
to develop clean renewable ways of obtaining energy, we also
need to change our behaviour and find new ways of using it
more efficiently. We have the tools and the time to act is now.
In this edition of trends in automation you will find plenty of
food for thought and action!
Rich Huss
Rich Huss,
President and CEO Festo USA