Passing of an Automation Legend

The “father of the PLC,” Dick Morley, has passed—but not without leaving a legacy that forever changed industrial automation.

David GreenfieldDirector of Content

Oct 18th, 2017

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In an industry where few innovators receive widespread recognition, Richard “Dick” Morley was an exception—and for good reason. Morley was considered to be the “father of the PLC (programmable logic controller)” based on his involvement in the production of the first PLC—the Modicon (MOdular DIgital CONtroller). He passed away on October 17, 2017.

Though his work in developing the first PLC is what Morley was most known for, he remained active on the engineering, manufacturing and automation fronts through his work with the ISA and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, among others.

Over the years, Automation World interviewed and published contributions from Morley on numerous occasions. Following are a few links to content published by Automation World relevant to Morley.

Thank you, Dick, for all you did for industry and the world of automation.

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