Patent ID: 7024261

Claim:
A modular automation apparatus, comprising: a base unit and an automation module; said base unit comprising a frame having a control cabinet affixed thereto that houses at least one programmable logic controller providing predetermined control function, said base unit adapted to receive an automation module; said automation module comprising a frame having a platform upon which at least one automation device is disposed, a selectively programmable memory device for storing logic rules to control said predetermined automation function, and a remote input-output device that communicates with said programmable logic controller for selectively controlling operation of said automation device, said automation module configured to mate with said base unit; and wherein when said base unit and a corresponding automation module are cooperatively assembled, said memory device downloads said logic rules into said programmable logic controller for execution, said programmable logic controller communicating with said remote input-output device in accordance with the executed logic rules to perform one or more predetermined automation functions.