Abstract: A process control system includes a set of environments organised hierarchically, a controller having a multiplicity of devices coupled thereto, each device initially assigned to an environment in the set of environments. In its initial state, the controller operates to control the multiplicity of devices in accordance with a first set of processes, control actions and trigger conditions and at least one device of the multiplicity of devices is able to change environment such that, whenever at least one device changes environment, the controller operates to control the multiplicity of devices in accordance with a different set of processes, control actions and trigger conditions if so required.

Abstract: A process control system includes a network with sub-networks and one or more network servers coupled to these sub-networks via a router. Network users can access this network via network user terminals. The sub-networks include automation servers with peripheral devices coupled thereto. The automation servers control and configure the peripheral devices and can be accessed by local users using local user terminals. The network user terminals can query automation servers for data about the peripheral devices over the network. The automation devices can be selected and identified by data relating to their geographical location.