Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes sit down with Melvin Francis, a research-driven engineer and technical marketing leader at BE Services, for a packed conversation on the realities of real-time industrial automation, edge AI, and the technical leaps powering Industry 4.0. Melvin shares his hands-on journey from developing open-source real-time Ethernet protocols in India to driving innovation in Germany’s advanced manufacturing sector.
This episode covers the critical distinction between real-time performance and speed in OT environments, the impact of edge AI on traditional cloud models, and the emerging value of time-sensitive networking (TSN) for seamless integration of IT and OT data flows. Melvin offers firsthand anecdotes, technical clarity, and live walkthroughs—including a look at BE Services’ AIoT edge solution—while discussing practical approaches for modernizing brownfield systems, achieving high-precision motion control, and bridging the skills gap in industrial digitalization. Perfect for engineers, automation leaders, and anyone seeking a practical perspective on the challenges and opportunities of modern industrial networks.
Connect with Melvin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvin-francis/
Connect with Phil on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/
Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/
About Industry Sage Media:
Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry.
Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com
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