Automation
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Automation describes a wide range of technologies that reduce human intervention in processes, mainly by predetermining decision criteria, subprocess relationships, and related actions, as well as emb
Minimum human intervention is required to control many large facilities, such as this electrical generating station.
Ctesibius's clepsydra (3rd century BC)
Steam engines promoted automation through the need to control engine speed and power.
A flyball governor is an early example of a feedback control system. An increase in speed would make the counterweights move outward, sliding a linkage that tended to close the valve supplying steam, and so slowing the engine.
Machine
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A machine is a thermodynamic system that uses power to apply forces and control movement to perform an action. The term is commonly applied to artificial devices, such as those employing engines or mo
Automation
…relationships, and related actions, as well as embodying those predeterminations in machines. Automation has been achieved by various means including mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, electronic devices, and computers, usually in combination. Complicated systems, such as modern factories, airplanes…
A woman operating a milling machine at Watertown Arsenal in the early 20th century
A flint hand axe was found in Winchester.
This ore crushing machine is powered by a water wheel.
The Kinematics of Machinery (1876) has an illustration of a four-bar linkage.