A runner Machine Interface or HMI is the graphical display that represents a machine, process, or service so that the user can simply, without effort control and keep track of the status of such a system.
An easy machine will require an easy user interface for the consumer and not require a HMI. A few indicator lights, some push buttons and switches will be all that is needed to work a simple machine, say one which presses components into a throwing of some types. To quickly idea you in as to of what the lights and push buttons would do, is to inform the owner that a part is at place and looking forward to the next step along the collection to a completed piece. The owner would know now the equipment is ready, add another element to the business and push the right button to start the next action.
Way before there in which the great color displays of today, a panel (metal, plastic or even wood) would be created and printed with a simple version of the actual process. In key points about this panel, holes wold be drilled and indicators and initial lights installed. This particular panel would be mounted on the wall and the panel for the switchgear such as push buttons and selector switches, installed below. Typically positioned at desk elevation to permit the owner to manage the machine or process.
Maintain in mind that the Human Device Interface is just… well… an user interface. The reason is that the real control and intelligence is handled by a controller, usually a PLC, although incorporated HMI/PLCs are available. The HMI transmits a request an action by a graphic push button pressed by the operator to the controller. In change an action is conducted though the intelligence programmed into the controller and the machine real producing the action. The PLC through sensors positioned on the equipment can send this status to the HMI.
The particular HMI can be a self-contained touch screen device made specifically to be used with a particular brand of PLC or control. While some are more universal and is used with many controllers since they have most communication protocol included or communication drivers available. Usually, you will notice these mounted directly on the enclosure door of a control cupboard. The HMI is also the wearer’s front finish to a SCADA anatomy’s controls and directories. Essentially SCADA is the top degree of power over a network of PLCs controlling a big, complicated process.
Other HMIs take advantage of an software package and tilpasningsstykke for a common PC. The tilpasningsstykke card is put in to the PC to allow connection to a specific communication medium and process of the control system. Depending on the supplier and the power and complexity, the software package will contain a development system and run-time permit. In this way a developer can have one system for creating the style of the HMI and multiple less costly run-time licenses for use in each machine.
Good design is necessary to obtain the most benefit from a Human Machine User interface. The Screens that are created, the way they are laid away and exactly how it all flows together can make a huge difference. Generally a Main Screen, Summary screen for every main area or system, a Current Sensors and Alarms Background screen are a good start. The particular Overview screen will give you access to more detailed sub displays through a collection of push control keys and/or logical drill down down points on the Overview display. Easy navigation from linked processes is essential as well as to the primary displays.
Choosing the proper graphics from the included library and creating your own is important for depicting your machine or process so that operator will learn quickly and never become confused.
The particular included graphic your local library have cool looking indicators, push-buttons, metres, numerical displays, storage containers, piping, valves, engines, blowers, etc.
Developing a great HMI is part art, part engineering, part mindset. A thorough understanding of the procedure is necessary and it can be quite a little fun, especially for the creative types among all of us.