(67c) Smart Plants: a New Opportunity for Industry and University

When people in a traditionally designed and operated process plant combine new technology (e.g., sensors, control automation, models, networks, etc.) with collaborative processes, plant performance can be optimized for the good of the enterprise. This plant is a Smart Plant. An example is presented to illustrate how traditional plants can be upgraded to Smart Plants. The critical need for industry and universities to work together to advance technology through research and development and prepare the future workforce for Smart Plants is discussed.