The concept of the "automation pyramid" is used in automation technology to describe the different levels of control and automation systems in an industrial environment. The automation pyramid usually consists of several layers or levels that are arranged hierarchically and fulfill several tasks and functions in an automated production process.
The exact structure of an automation pyramid can vary depending on the context and industry. The following levels are common: field device level, control level, management level (or SCADA level), operating level (MES - Manufacturing Execution System) and the enterprise level (ERP - Enterprise Resource Planning).