All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(963 products available)
The designation of an advanced HMI system involves its chip, processing capability, display, and functionality. Such expansions allow companies to monitor operations more vividly, incorporate advanced analytics filters, and enrich the user's helix with exceptional navigation resource. They interact with equipment using mobile devices, enabling operators to control machinery remotely, improving operational flexibility.
Here are the types of advanced human-machine interface systems:
These HMIs are deployed functionally concerning the operability of the systems. They are usually of three types:
Monitors
These are only display units connected to a server or processing unit where no changes, only views. Also, the data is retrieved and displayed under static page configurations. Manual processing, based on outside help, uses a monitor type HMI.
Basic HMIs
The HMI Basic types support partial interaction; thus, users can control the system to carry out operations as required. These machines utilize details of the several pages to allow switching from one page to another for system display.
In such devices, small automations can be managed through elements of scripting that are basic. These HMIs are well employed in simpler operations where limited interaction is required.
Advanced HMIs
The advanced HMI is more interactive compared to its basic counterpart. Data representation allows dynamic changes, which means that users can change the system parameters. It also involves the use of dynamic graphics, trends, and alarms to improve operation monitoring.
The HMI classification based on the degree of display interactivity is as follows:
Textual HMIs
They have textual descriptions, thus limiting interpretation and instruction comprehension. However, their picture loading capability is minimal; hence, they have simple operational layouts.
Graphical HMIs
Enhancements to the graphical interfaces have been made, providing valuable runtime of operations and relating them to dynamic pictures. Advanced features such as zoom, trends, and digital displays can be added for analysis.
Web-based HMIs
The primary function of Web-based HMIs is their accessibility. Data posts are made off the location for interpretation through any device that operates via the Internet.
Mobile-based HMIs
Mobile-based HMIs have been designed for operation on mobile gadgets. They enhance mobility and monitoring; hence, control is done from anywhere.
Depending on the architecture, the HMI types are as follows:
Client-server HMIs
Client-server HMIs allow smooth and quick communication between a client and a server at any given time through a defined network. One instance of the system is the client for the real-time data; the server stores the data and processes it.
PLC-based HMIs
PLC (Programmable Logic Control)-based HMIs are a self-contained type of interface integrated with PLCs, where local control and monitoring are performed. Such systems are common in industries emphasizing redundancy and high system reliability.
Cloud-based HMIs
With an HMI, the major development is in data storage and processing with a promise of virtually limitless enhancement through the cloud.
Selecting an advanced HMI involves several considerations. These include business needs, the industry in question, the type of machines for which the interface will be designed, and future expectations for system expansion or upgrading.
The first step should focus on what kind of information is to be processed and how often one should be able to work. They can achieve this by counting the number of screens, system control complexity, and possible dynamic data charts.
Industrial standards and norms should be observed when one selects the HMI. A manufacturing plant requires a system that can give real-time information and facilitate quick movements of data. In the oil and gas industry, there is a need for an interface that can operate under hazardous conditions, and in the power sector, reliability and time redundancy are important.
The kind of machines the HMI will be integrated with also affects the choice. While PLC-based HMIs may be suitable for system control, client-server HMIs may be more appropriate in a networked environment.
It is also important to think about the future. If big changes and system improvements are expected, it would be recommended to go for a scalable HMI system in the cloud for business usage rather than one restricted by hardware. This will make the system more efficient in the long run.
To minimize the complexity associated with the operationalization of advanced HMI, the following steps should be accomplished.
Advanced HMIs require proper installation; connect the system to equipment, databases, and networks. The machine components should be integrated with the system, data layers created, and communications established. During this stage, data security measures are put in place, especially for cloud-based HMIs.
Advanced HMIs come with high configurability. Screens can be designed, alarms, notifications, and other business metrics and KPIs embedded. Data validation should be checked through simulation tests if configuration is set properly.
Live operations can be conducted after all steps have been conducted. Data values are monitored; trends can be analyzed, and alarms or notifications activated if any abnormalities are detected. The controls of the hardware can also be executed from the interface.
This is the final part of the operational part of HMI. Ongoing maintenance is required for system updates, security protocols, and performance reviews to ensure an uninterrupted service stream.
Depending on the HMI's advanced type and model, it is possible to do certain repairs.
Common DIY
Replacing simple parts like screens or buttons is doable for some devices. Carefully detach the damaged part and replace it with a new one. Modification and additional training should be sought for more complex interfacing systems.
Software updates
Some DIY activities also involve the systems in which the software is updated frequently using user manuals via the Internet;
Sensor replacement
Most light-duty sensors can be replaced. One can learn how to locate the sensor and replace it with a new one, or better still, the instructional video provides the steps.
The following parts can be easily replaced in an advanced HMI system:
Displays
The display is the most easily replaceable part of an advanced HMI. Whether a touchscreen, graphical display, or OLED panel, displays wear out. A new screen would improve operational efficiency.
Keypads and touch sensors
Mechanical or capacitive touch sensors facilitate the keypad replacements. This would help eradicate problems associated with input.
Communication modules
Communication module replacement becomes necessary when an HMI fails to communicate over a network or with a machine.
Power supplies
The power supply replacements are common. Without the right power supply, the device fails to deliver the right output.
Cooling fans
The fans can be replaced because they maintain an HMI system's optimal operating temperature.
Ports
USB, Ethernet, and serial non-functional port replacements are possible, allowing the HMI systems to connect and interact with other machines.
A1. Advanced HMIs are interactive interfaces that help users easily control industrial processes by displaying real-time data and allowing for better monitoring and interaction than traditional models.
A2. The advanced human-machine interface incorporates dynamic graphics, data trends, and alarm systems, unlike the simple textual interface basic HMIs, which provide a more efficient system control.
A3. Manufacturing, oil and gases, power generation, and other industries requiring real-time data, monitoring and control, and interfacing complexity.
A4. Yes, mobile-based advanced HMIs can be accessed and operated on mobile devices as long as the Internet is available for ease of monitoring and control away from the workstation.
