Outcome Optimized Controllers (OOC), such as the RX3i CPE400 from GE, are capable of taking inputs from external sources, such as the internet, cloud, or business automation tools, and using that data in real-time in the control loop to result in better production or process outcomes.

The Automationer, being your guide to the latest trends in industrial automation, looks at use cases and what types of information can be used to better optimize production outcomes.

OOC Use Cases

Water/Wastewater Management
GE’s common example for outcome optimized control is in the water/wastewater industry. By the OOC monitoring the weather, a municipality’s control system can automatically adjust for the expected rain fall. But perhaps a better use of OOC for water/wastewater facilities is to have knowledge of when the Super Bowl halftime show is about to begin, and prepare for the expected overload in sewage from toilets.

Discrete Manufacturing
The OOC can know the exact moment that the Amazon Dash button is pressed, and optimize the production line accordingly.

Electric Utility
Optimized outcomes based on loads and weather events may seem like the most useful application for an OOC with electric utilities, but it’s also important to take in real-time information for when the sun sets, as people may start to turn their lights on.

Infrastructure
With OCC, a metropolitan subway station can know when quit’n time is, and schedule an additional train, or two.

Other Sources of Data

Business Data
The CPE400 can now know when another division of GE is being sold off, and can better optimize itself for what will become its expected shortened life span.

Social Media
The OOC can monitor your company’s main social media sites, and make outcomes based on how well your company is trending online.

Spotify
When my jam is playing, outcomes will be favorable.

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