Abstract: A method for monitoring a factory process is disclosed. The factory process comprises a plurality of tasks. The method comprises displaying the factory process in real-time as a three-dimensional, free-camera, computer generated representation of the process as a whole, selectively displaying each of the tasks in real-time as a three-dimensional, free-camera, computer generated representation of the respective task.

Abstract: A system for providing access to a PLC controlled subcomponent of an automation system. The system comprises a biometric identification device coupled to an I/O device of the automation system. The I/O device is configured to process input from the biometric identification device and provide an identification code for a user of the biometric identification device. The system further comprises a PLC based server configured to receive the identification code generated by the I/O device and process the identification code to determine whether to provide access to a PLC controlled subcomponent of the automation system to the user.

Abstract: A system for providing voice input to a subcomponent of an automation system. The system comprises an apparatus for receiving vocal transmissions from an operator of the subcomponent and converting the vocal transmissions to an electrical vocal signal. The system further comprises a PLC operatively associated with the subcomponent. The PLC is configured to receive the electrical vocal signal and convert the electrical vocal signal into an input signal associated with operation of the subcomponent.

Abstract: A voice output system for providing a voice output to a user of a subcomponent of an automation system. A PLC associated with monitoring or controlling an operation of the subcomponent determines if voice output is needed and generates a signal to provide the requisite speech output. The output may be computer generated or a pre-recorded taped message.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a factory process is disclosed. The factory process comprises a plurality of tasks. The method comprises displaying the factory process in real-time as a three-dimensional, free-camera, computer generated representation of the process as a whole, selectively displaying each of the tasks in real-time as a three-dimensional, free-camera, computer generated representation of the respective task.